TikTok is a popular mobile app downloaded millions of times superseding Snapchat, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. The social media app is a music-video based platform letting your kids record and lip-syncs to trendy songs, integrate effects, and share the content with others.
Then, parents are not always aware of the apps their children use and it becomes overwhelming for parents to stay updated with media, information, trends, and social media trends. According to an article published on NBC News, parents can teach their kids how to ensure safety online while using TikTok.
In this article, we will walk you through the 3 essential things parents should know about TikTok in 2021.
1. Age limit for using TikTok
Your child must be at least 13 years of age, which is great news for teens, who want to use TikTokto make creative videos. Then, remember that the platform does not use employ age confirmation tools when people register for the app. It implies that your kid signs up for a new TikTok account and that too without you knowing the fact. Therefore, keep a tab on your kid’s social media activities so that they do not see inappropriate and explicit content sans any checks or restrictions. TikTok is a great platform for bringing out the creative side of your children, but your kiddo needs to avoid inapt content.
2. Privacy Setting for Safety
TikTok has a default public setting even if your kid is underage and uses the app. This way, your kids receive direct messages from people they do not know. In 2021, the social app has come up with a new update, defaulting to private when kids in the age group of 13-15 years old sign up for TikTok. It is fun when your child makes creative videos about his or her hobby and manages to buy real TikTok views from genuine people. Additionally, video content made by kids below 16 years is limited to default for download until the app’s settings are updated or changed.
As per the new update, when your child has a private account, people who your child allows as a follower can see the videos, not strangers. Make sure your kids do not see profanity, suggestive content and adult videos on TikTok. Parents should, therefore, should learn about the new privacy settings of TikTok to ensure their kid’s safety.
3. Its mental impact on Kids
Though TikTok is a perfect socializing app and lets your child show his or her creative side, it has some detrimental effects. Just as with other social media apps, sharing photos and videos frequently will leave your kid susceptible to ugly comments and negative responses. Such responses have a detrimental effect on your kid’s self-respect, confidence, and physical image. If harsh comments are posted about your kiddo, it could result in anxiety, depression, bulimia, and anorexia. Therefore, parents must ensure that their kid is not using TikTok too often.
Conclusion
Social media apps are great for your children if used in moderation and for creative reasons. Keep these aspects in mind so that your kiddo uses TikTok for creating engaging content and use the updated privacy settings.
