‍Parents and Teachers: View the full VIP Facilitation Guide Here

Key Takeaways:

• Students should always have their TikTok account set to private and set limits on who can contact them through the app
• Experts say it’s easy for students to come across mature or triggering content that could promote self-harm, eating disorders, or risky behaviors
• Students never know for sure who might access content they create, so caution should be used when posting videos
• Family Pairing through TikTok allows families to work together to set limits and monitor what the teen can see
• Apple and Android have parental controls that can set time limits for TikTok and other apps

Dialogue Starters:

Parents of Elementary School Students (to ask students)

Reporting Inappropriate Content

• When you’re old enough to have a TikTok account, how would you handle a situation where you accidentally found inappropriate content or comments? 

Parents of Middle School Students (to ask students)

Knowing What’s Out There

• What are some examples of dangerous behaviors or suggestions you or your friends have encountered on TikTok?

Parents of High School Students (to ask students)

Being Careful What You Share

• If you decide to create your own TikTok videos, what would you want to consider before posting them? 

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.