If you have a child who’s asking (or begging!) to use TikTok, you’re not alone. TikTok is one of the most popular apps in the world, with millions of kids and teens using it daily. But what exactly is TikTok, and should you be concerned about your child using it?
As a parent, it’s natural to feel a mix of curiosity and caution when it comes to social media. On one hand, TikTok is a hub for creativity, self-expression, and even education. On the other, there are real concerns—screen time, exposure to inappropriate content, and online safety. Let’s break it all down so you can make an informed decision and set up the right boundaries if your child is using (or planning to use) TikTok. With TikTok expected to surpass 1.6 billion active users in 2025, it’s clear that it’s here to stay.
So, how can parents ensure their kids use it safely?
What is TikTok?
TikTok is a social media platform where users create and share short videos (up to 10 minutes) with music, filters, and effects. It’s famous for its viral dance challenges, funny skits, and creative trends. But beyond entertainment, TikTok has become a place where young people can learn, spread kindness, and even raise awareness for important causes. Many creators use the platform to talk about mental health, fight bullying, and share educational content.
What Age is TikTok For?
TikTok’s official age limit is 13 years old, until December 2025 when it will increase to 16 years old. However, there’s no strict age verification, meaning younger kids can sign up without a parent’s knowledge. That’s why it’s important to have conversations early and often about online safety—before your child creates an account.
How to Keep Your Child Safe
While TikTok can be a great creative outlet, it also comes with risks. Here are the key things parents should be aware of:
https://www.tiktok.com/safety/en/guardians-guide
TikTok’s endless stream of videos can be highly engaging—even addictive. Many kids spend two or more hours a day scrolling, which can impact sleep, focus, and schoolwork. To encourage healthy screen habits, you can:
✔ Set daily screen time limits using TikTok’s built-in Digital Wellbeing tools.
✔ Encourage screen-free time before bed to improve sleep.
✔ No devices in the bedroom
✔ Balance TikTok or any screen time with other activities, like outdoor play, exercise and reading.
TikTok offers features to help parents manage their child’s experience:
Restricted Mode – Filters out mature content.
Screen Time Limits – Controls how long they can use the app each day.
Family Pairing – Links your account to your child’s, allowing you to monitor settings and limit content exposure.
To enable these:
1. Open TikTok and go to Settings.
2. Tap Digital Wellbeing.
3. Select Screen Time Management and Restricted Mode.
Even with filters, some content slips through that may not be suitable for younger users. The best way to safeguard your child? Be involved. Ask what they’re watching, follow some of their favourite creators, and remind them they can always come to you if they see something upsetting.
Even if your child isn’t on TikTok, they might still be watching TikTok content—just in different places. Viral TikTok videos are constantly reposted on Instagram Reels, via Messenger, Facebook, and YouTube Shorts, meaning kids can be exposed to the same trends, challenges, and risks without ever having a TikTok account.
- Monitor more than just TikTok – If your child uses Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube, they’re likely seeing TikTok content there too.
- The same risks apply – Inappropriate content, risky challenges, and online bullying can appear across all these platforms.
- Check privacy & safety settings – Set content filters, limit screen time, and talk to your child about what they’re watching
4.Risky Challenges and Trends
TikTok challenges can be fun—think dance routines and harmless pranks. But some have turned dangerous, encouraging risky behaviour. Talk to your child about thinking critically before participating in trends and remind them that just because something is popular doesn’t mean it’s safe.
5.Cyberbullying and Online Safety
Like all social platforms, TikTok has seen cases of cyberbullying. Thankfully, there are tools to help:
Block and Report – If your child experiences bullying, they can block users and report harmful content.
Comment Filters – These allow you to limit who can comment on their videos.
Private Accounts – Consider setting their profile to private, so only approved followers can see their content.
How to Report Content on TikTok:
To report an account:
1.Go to the profile of the account.
2.Tap Settings > Report.
To report a video:
1.Open the video.
2.Tap Share > Report.
To report a comment:
1.Select the comment.
2 Tap Report.
The best thing you can do? Stay involved. Open communication about online safety is crucial. Create a trusting space where they feel comfortable sharing their experiences and concerns. Discuss with your child or a young person in your life the importance of privacy and the potential risks of sharing personal information. Make sure they understand how to recognise and report inappropriate content.
Ask your child what they’re watching, set some healthy limits, and keep the conversation open. Let them know they can always come to you if something doesn’t feel right.
And if you ever feel unsure about something? You’re not alone—every parent is figuring this out as they go. Just keep the lines of communication open, trust your instincts, and you’ve got this!
If you are concerned about a child or young person being bullied, please seek help. Speak to a trusted GP, school wellbeing staff, or a helpline such as:
Dolly’s Dream Support Line 0488 881 033
Parentline in your state or territory
Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
Headspace 1800 650 890
Lifeline 13 11 14
For more resources and tips to keep your kids safe online, download Beacon, the free cyber safety app, here.
