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Key Takeaways:

• TikTok and other video-based apps feature algorithms designed to keep kids on the app for as long as possible, which is key to their profitability
• TikTok contains content that can be very dangerous and can lead to body-image issues, violence, bullying, and self-harm 
• Time limits can help reduce the potential harm of TikTok
• There are products available to help parents supervise how kids use TikTok
• Plugging into TikTok as a family can help keep students safe and guide them toward positive content

Dialogue Starters: 

Parents of Elementary School Students (to ask students)

Describe a Fun Video

• What kinds of videos do you think you would enjoy on TikTok? 

Parents of Middle School Students (to ask students)

Identifying Harmful Content

• How would you be able to tell the difference between TikTok videos that are interesting and fun to watch and videos that show people talking about or doing harmful things? 

Parents of High School Students (to ask students)

What to Watch Out For

• What kinds of content on TikTok do you think might be unhealthy  because of the content or actions they promote? 

Additional Resources

Positive Impact of Social Media & Screen Time (What Students, Parents, & Educators Need to Know)

Making Screen Time Fun While Reducing the Negative Impact

Instagram App Guide (2024): What Parents, Educators, & Students Need to Know

Social Media Challenges: What Students, Parents & Educators Need to Know

Conclusion

TikTok is an extremely popular app among students. Parents can work with their students to find ways to use the app safely and in a way that fits with their family values. It is important to engage in a dialogue about appropriate ways to use TikTok, current social media challenges, and what to do in the event that students come across content that makes them feel uncomfortable.