Digital Learning & High Abilities

Understanding the Risks: TikTok and Young Children

TikTok has rapidly become a favourite platform among children and teenagers, offering a space for creativity through short videos. However, for parents of young children, it's crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with the app. Drawing insights from the Commissioner for Children and Young People's guide, here's what parents should consider: https://www.ccyp.com.au/resources-for-families/

What Is TikTok?

TikTok is a social media app that allows users to create and share short videos, often featuring music, dance, or comedy. Its user-friendly editing tools make it appealing to younger audiences. While the app can be a fun outlet for expression, it also exposes children to a vast online community, which may not always be safe or appropriate.

Potential Risks for Young Users

1. Exposure to Inappropriate Content

Despite efforts to moderate content, TikTok users can still encounter videos with explicit language, suggestive themes, or dangerous challenges. The platform's algorithm may inadvertently promote such content, making it accessible to young viewers.

2. Privacy Concerns

By default, TikTok accounts are public, allowing anyone to view a user's content. This openness can lead to unwanted interactions or the sharing of personal information without realising the consequences.

3. Data Collection

TikTok collects user data to personalise content and advertisements. For children, this raises concerns about the extent of data being gathered and how it's used.

4. Online Predators

The app's messaging features can be exploited by individuals with malicious intent. Children may be contacted by strangers, posing risks to their safety.

5. Mental Health Impacts

Constant exposure to curated content and the pursuit of likes or followers can affect a child's self-esteem and mental well-being. The pressure to create popular content may lead to anxiety or unhealthy comparisons.

Steps Parents Can Take

Engage in Open Conversations

Discuss the content they view and create on TikTok with your child. Encourage them to share their experiences and any concerns they might have.

Utilise Parental Controls

TikTok offers features like 'Family Pairing,' which allows parents to link their account to their child's, enabling control over screen time, direct messages, and content restrictions.Wikipedia

Set Clear Boundaries

Establish rules regarding app usage, including time limits and appropriate content. Regularly review these guidelines together.

Monitor Account Privacy Settings

Ensure your child's account is set to private, limiting content visibility to approved followers only. Regularly check and update these settings as needed.

Age Requirements and Upcoming Legislation

TikTok's current policy sets the minimum age for users at 13 years old. However, in Australia, new legislation is set to raise this minimum age to 16. The Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024, passed by the Australian Parliament, mandates that social media platforms take reasonable steps to prevent individuals under 16 from creating accounts. This law is expected to come into effect by the end of 2025, with platforms facing significant fines for non-compliance. 

The legislation aims to protect young Australians from potential harms associated with social media use, including exposure to inappropriate content and online predators. As a parent, it's essential to be aware of these changes and to prepare for the upcoming regulations by discussing them with your child and adjusting their online activities accordingly.

📚 Additional Resources

For a comprehensive understanding and more detailed guidance, refer to the A Quick Guide to TikTok for Parents provided by the Commissioner for Children and Young People. This resource offers practical tips to help parents safely navigate their child's TikTok usage.