Is TikTok safe? How does it work? 

 

 What is TikTok?

TikTok is a social network for sharing user-generated videos. Users can create and upload their own videos, many of which feature people lip-synching to popular songs. You can also browse and interact with other users' content, which covers a wide range of topics, songs, and styles. These videos can be grouped by hashtags, which often correspond to challenges, memes, or current events (like #pandemiclife).

How safe is TikTok?

Using any social network can be risky, but it's possible for kids to safely use the app with adult supervision (and a private account). TikTok has different rules for different ages:

• Users under age 13 can't post videos or comment, and content is curated for a younger audience.

• For kids age 13 to 15, accounts are private by default. Only friends can comment on videos, and other users can't duet (explained below) with your videos.

• Only users age 16 and over can livestream and use direct messaging, and only users over 18 can buy, send, or receive virtual gifts.

• In March 2023, TikTok announced a time limit of 60 minutes/day on users under 18, requiring a password to be entered for further access to the platform.

TikTok also offers some tools for parents and caregivers to further limit how much time kids spend on the app and what kids can see. Parents and caregivers can also use Restricted Mode to reduce mature content, or Family Safety Mode to pair their account with their kid's account to control settings completely.

TikTok also offers some tools for parents and caregivers to further limit how much time kids spend on the app and what kids can see. Parents and caregivers can also use Restricted Mode to reduce mature content, or Family Safety Mode to pair their account with their kid's account to control settings completely.

Is TikTok appropriate for kids?

TikTok can be a kid-friendly experience if you supervise your kids, use safety settings, and stick to songs you already know. But TikTok's emphasis on popular music means many videos include swearing and inappropriate lyrics, so it may not be age-appropriate for kids to use on their own. Even with limits, it's easy to find people wearing revealing clothing and dancing suggestively, although TikTok won't let you search for objectionable content.

What age is TikTok recommended for?

Common Sense recommends the app for age 15+ mainly due to the privacy issues and mature content. TikTok requires that users be at least 13 years old to use the basic TikTok features, although there is a way for younger kids to access the app.

To view the original article in the Common Sense website click here: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/articles/parents-ultimate-guide-to-tiktok

Starting February 21st, 2023 students will be learning about Digital Citizenship through the school broadcasting morning announcements.

If you would like to talk to your children about the lessons, click on the links below to get conversation starters:

• SEL in Digital Life Grades 6th to 9th Family Conversations Packet

 

• SEL en La Vida Digital Temas De Conversación Para Familias De 6º a 8º Grado

Family Tips will change every week. This week's tip is about finding balance in our digital lives.

Click on the links below to find more information:

• Help Kids Balance Their Media Lives
• Ayudemos a Los Niños a Encontrar Equilibrio en Su Vida Digital