Use of Tik Tok

We have recently been made aware of some improper use of TikTok within Years 4 – 6.

As we are a primary school, we would strongly recommend that no primary aged pupil has access to TikTok. We would also encourage all parents to regularly check apps and messages on their child’s mobile phone and/or tablet to ensure that they are accessing age appropriate content as well as sending/receiving appropriate messages. 

TikTok is a free video-sharing and social media platform. It lets users create content, share videos and watch short clips from people all over the world.

The app is popular for short-form content of all genres including dancing, history, news and more. Several musicians rose to popularity after users shared their music widely on TikTok.

As a video-sharing platform, TikTok is one of the most popular platforms available among teens. To help promote safety and wellbeing of teens, TikTok introduced Family Pairing. There are also several screen time and safety features available in-app.

13 is the minimum age according to TikTok’s Terms and Conditions. However, the Google Play Store marks it as requiring Parental Guidance. Additionally, the Apple Play Store says it’s for 12+. There are additional age restrictions with TikTok for some features, which require users to be 16 or 18. Be sure to read the Terms of Service along with Community Guidelines for full information.

Potential risks on TikTok

• When you download the app, users can see all the content without creating an account although they are not able to post, like or share anything until they’ve set up an account on the app.
• By default, all accounts are public so anyone on the app can see what your child shares. However, only approved followers can send them messages.
• Users can like or react to a video, follow an account or send messages to each other, so there is the risk that strangers will be able to directly contact children on the app.
• Children may be tempted to take risks to get more of a following or likes on a video so it’s important to talk about what they share and with who.

You can find lots of useful and clear information about TikTok at the website below:

https://www.tiktok.com/safety/en/tools-and-guides/guardians-guide