Stem

TikTok

TikTok App

During this term we have heard lots of talk about students using TikTok outside of school hours and creating and sharing content with each other. Whilst the majority of this discussion and content may look innocent and appropriate for students, there are some things we would like to make our community aware of in regards to students using this app. 

 

What is TikTok?

TikTok (formlery Music.ly) is a social media app for creating and sharing short videos. You can create and share short lip-sync, comedy and talent videos of 3 to 15 seconds. You can also create short looping videos up to 60 seconds long.

 

Is there an age limit for TikTok?

Yes there is! The following is from the TikTok website

“ TikTok is intended for users age 13 and over. Please do not allow a child under the age of 13 to use the app. If you learn that your child under the age of 13 has registered for a TikTok account, you may alert us at privacy@tiktok.com. We will promptly take appropriate action”

 

This is very clear that anyone under 13 should not have a TikTok account. This is not a guideline or a recommendation, it is a requirement that you must be over 13 to sign up. Although the Content Rating on the App Store may rate TikTok content differently, the sign up age still remains at 13.

 

Is it used at school? No, TikTok is not an app which is used at school. The vast majority of our students are under the age of 13 and we would expect that anyone under 13 does not have the app installed on their BYOD device. If there is sufficient evidence that a student under 13 has a TikTok account, we will be notifying TikTok.

 

Can I stop my child using TikTok?

By setting up Screen Time limits on your child’s iPad, you can block the use of the TikTok app. If you are unsure how to do this, please contact the office or Aaron Coulter for support.

 

What if my child is over 13?

Once a child reaches 13, a parental decision needs to be made in regards to signing up for an account. This will vary from family to family and the decision will depend on individual circumstances. If parents decide to allow their 13+ year old child to have an account, please remember the following

- Do not post images or videos where students are in school uniform

- Avoid posting content which has names of clubs or associations on clothing

- Avoid posting content which has visible indications of locations such as schools, parks or easily identifiable landmarks.

- Always obtain permission from people in the video before posting online

- If you are not sure if content is appropriate or not to post, don’t post it, check with a trusted adult first.

 

We know that it can be very fun and creative producing videos and content and we encourage children to make the most of the amazing experiences that technology can provide. We also want to ensure that technology is being used appropriately and that children learn to be responsible digital citizens. 

For further information and support, please head to https://support.tiktok.com/en/privacy-safety/for-parents-default

 

Aaron Coulter

Learning Specialist - Stem