As parents of primary-aged children, it is crucial to stay informed about the digital landscape your children inhabit. TikTok, an immensely popular social media platform with approximately 1.7 billion monthly active users, is particularly appealing to young people due to its short-form video content. However, it poses several risks that parents should be aware of. Firstly, the app is primarily intended for users aged 13 and over; yet, younger children may attempt to circumvent this age restriction, exposing them to inappropriate content and potential online predators. TikTok’s content can range from harmless fun to dangerous challenges, which can encourage risky behaviour among impressionable users. Furthermore, even though TikTok has implemented privacy measures, such as defaulting accounts of users under 16 to private, the effectiveness of these settings relies on parental involvement and open conversations about online safety. Parents are encouraged to utilise Family Pairing features, which allow control over account settings, content visibility, and screen time limits. It is vital to foster a dialogue with your child about recognising and reporting inappropriate content and interacting responsibly with others online.
