A young boy smiles while holding up a phone. A young girl frowns while holding up a phone

Illustration by Tom Garrett; Debate photos courtesy of families; Shutterstock.com (all other images)

Should Kids Be on TikTok?

February 15, 2021

Whether they’re watching silly pet videos or taking part in a new dance challenge, people around the world can’t seem to get enough of TikTok. The app has been downloaded more than 100 million times in the U.S. alone. Users need to be at least 13 years old to get full access to TikTok. But younger kids sometimes pretend they’re older to avoid that requirement.

Many people say it’s OK for kids under 13 to use TikTok as long as their parents supervise what they’re doing on the app. A lot of parents think TikTok can be a safe place for kids to be creative, learn new things, and connect with friends.

But others argue that TikTok has an age requirement for a reason. They point out that TikTok is filled with bad language and rude behavior, setting a poor example for kids. Many parents say the app is just another harmful way for kids to waste time on screens. Also, privacy experts have expressed concerns about how TikTok collects and stores users’ personal information.

Here’s what two of our readers think.

Kids should be allowed on TikTok as long as they use it responsibly. My mom monitors my account, and the app has many safety settings. For example, you can make your account private or turn off direct messages (DMs).

TikTok is like a big community that has something for everyone. Within the app, there are areas for different interests, called sides. If you like art, you can find tips for how to draw or paint.

TikTok also has a lot of fun challenges, like Wipe It Down. They help keep my little brother and me occupied while my mom is busy.

Kids should not have TikTok. The content on the app is geared toward older teenagers and adults. Kids who lie about their age to join can be exposed to inappropriate language and stories that they aren’t mature enough to handle. More important, they may end up connecting with people who don’t have good intentions, such as cyberbullies and online predators.

The New York Times reports that about one-third of TikTok’s daily users in the U.S. are 14 and under. That means millions of kids may be inviting trouble into their lives each day.