TikTok – the phenomenon that has swiftly swept across the globe within a few short years. Characterised by short-form videos usually accompanied by catchy music, this social media platform has evolved into a new subculture and a swanky app amongst teenagers and adults alike.
Like most networking sites, TikTok is designed for users 13 years and older. However, did you know that it also has a section dedicated to younger children? Dubbed the TikTok for Younger Users experience, it allows for pre-teens to participate, albeit on safer terrain.
Given its relatively open-door policy, parents of young children will inevitably worry. However, TikTok can also be a great platform for these adolescents to express themselves. Therefore, it is important for parents to teach their children the importance of internet safety to guard against the dangers lurking behind the screens. One of the ways is to introduce your child to the TikTok community guidelines.
Why TikTok for Children?
TikTok sets the stage for people to talk, sing, chat, or even showcase their creativity. For children, these can translate to better communication and higher levels of confidence. The social aspect is definitely fun for many, where users are able to connect with people from all over the world.
As long as safety features are enabled and the community guidelines for minors are followed, TikTok can be a unique channel to learn and share.
Community Guidelines for Children
Community guidelines are implemented to help protect and govern the community at large. Having a candid and transparent dialogue about these guidelines with the whole family can help your child feel safe and empowered. Here are some examples:
1. Harmful challenges
Challenges such as the “Blackout Challenge” or “Tide Pod Challenge” have made TikTok infamous, and for good reason. Children who are exposed to these community quests of sorts may feel pressured to ride the wave as a result of peer pressure.
Parents should therefore educate their children by sharing news about such challenges and the potential dangers uninformed people may encounter.
2. Hateful behaviour
TikTok upholds a strong stance against bullying, harassment or other similar hateful behaviour. For example, someone who repeatedly uploads hate videos will likely get his or her account blocked. Users can also report other users. As a first-time user, your child can and should learn to differentiate between good and bad behaviour.
This becomes a life lesson as well – encouraging your child to be a better person.
3. Copyright infringement
Young children may not understand what copyright infringement means, so try to simplify the explanation. Start the conversation by asking your child if he or she would like their work to be stolen, or what they would do if they see someone copying assignments in school.
Along the same vein, TikTok will also remove the content if found infringing on the rights of another creator. For children on the platform, this will then teach them to be original and as creative as possible.
Boost Your Child’s Confidence Through Performing Arts
TikTok is a good platform to showcase storytelling and communication skills, and children can definitely benefit from it with the right guidance. Apart from TikTok, parents can also consider enrolling their children into speech and drama classes to boost their confidence. Additionally, such activities can also teach children about cooperation and teamwork, which they may not be able to get on a virtual platform.
MindChamps Académie of Stars is a performing arts school in Singapore which caters to young children. From singing lessons to theatrical performances, our students will pick up critical life skills and form healthy relationships with others. Most importantly, each class is filled with lots of fun!
Contact us to find out more about our specialised programmes for children today.