TikTok: Fun, Trendy, and a Little Too Dangerous for Kids Under 16

TikTok has revolutionized how we consume entertainment, offering everything from dance trends to life hacks to comedy skits in short, addictive bursts. It’s no wonder children are drawn to the app—it’s vibrant, creative, and feels like a digital playground. But beneath the fun lies a more complex reality that parents need to understand.

TikTok isn’t just a harmless app for passing time. For children under 16, it can be a gateway to inappropriate content, dangerous challenges, and privacy concerns. Here’s what you need to know to keep your child safe while navigating this digital world.

Why TikTok is Irresistible to Kids

 TikTok’s magic lies in its ability to draw users in with highly personalized content. Once a child engages with one or two videos, the app’s algorithm works overtime to serve them more of what they like. Add in the thrill of creating videos, the chance to go viral, and the constant buzz of new challenges, and you’ve got a recipe for an app that kids don’t want to put down.

 For children, TikTok is more than just a fun app—it’s a place where they feel seen, connected, and part of something bigger. But this sense of belonging can sometimes come at a cost.

The Dark Side of TikTok

 As parents, it’s easy to focus on the fun and overlook the dangers. Unfortunately, TikTok can expose young, impressionable minds to risks they’re not ready to handle.

Some videos contain inappropriate themes, from explicit content to harmful trends that glorify unhealthy behaviors. Viral challenges, like the notorious “Blackout Challenge,” encourage children to engage in dangerous activities, often with dire consequences.

Then there’s the psychological toll. TikTok’s endless stream of curated content can lead to addictive behaviors, making it hard for kids to focus on homework, chores, or even sleep. And with every like or comment, kids may feel pressure to perform or compare themselves to others, impacting their self-esteem.

Protecting Your Child on TikTok

 The good news? You’re not powerless. TikTok has built-in features that can help protect your child if you know how to use them. Here’s how you can configure their account for safety:

• Switch to a Private Account:

  •  Go to Settings > Privacy > Account Privacy and toggle to “Private Account.”

  • This ensures only approved followers can see their content.

• Limit Who Can Interact:

  • Under Privacy, adjust settings for Comments, Duets, and Messages. Limit these to “Friends” or “No One.”

• Enable Restricted Mode:

  • This filters out mature content. Go to Settings > Digital Wellbeing > Restricted Mode.

• Turn Off Direct Messaging:

  • Under Privacy > Direct Messages, disable this feature for users under 16.

• Set Screen Time Limits:

  • Use Digital Wellbeing to set daily screen time limits and require a passcode to extend use.

Should Kids Be on TikTok at All?

“Children 13 years and under should be restricted from TikTok”

— In my opinion

Many experts agree that children under 13 shouldn’t have access to TikTok at all. Even for kids aged 13–16, the app should be used sparingly and only under supervision. I am no expert, but I firmly believe that children under 13 should be restricted from TikTok.

If TikTok feels like too much of a risk, consider alternative apps that foster creativity without the exposure to harmful content.

The Parent’s Role in Digital Safety

Parenting in the digital age requires more than just setting limits. It means having open conversations about online behavior, teaching your child to recognize dangers, and modeling good screen habits.

Be curious. Ask them what they enjoy about TikTok and watch videos with them. Discuss what’s appropriate to post and how to handle negative interactions. Regularly review their account together, checking for new followers or messages.

A Heartfelt Call to Action

As parents, we teach our children to navigate the physical world safely—how to cross the street, talk to strangers, and avoid dangerous situations. The digital world is no different. TikTok may be fun, but it’s a place where dangers can lurk, especially for young users.

As a parent myself, I implore you to take an active role in your child’s online experience. Configure their accounts, monitor their activity, and most importantly, talk to them about the risks. Together, we can guide our children to enjoy technology responsibly while keeping them safe.

Let’s not leave their digital safety to chance—let’s be the guardians of their virtual playground.