5 Requests Teens Have of Their Parents About Their Online Safety

Involving our teens in conversations about internet safety is key to understanding the challenges and opportunities they experience online. TikTok took a positive step by committing to working in partnership with parents and caregivers as they support their kid's digital journey. As part of that effort, TikTok polled teens on what support they valued as it relates to online safety. Here's what the kids said:

#1. “Help me understand the rules.”

Kids don't expect trusted adults to be experts on every platform, but they value support to set up their accounts. This includes understanding privacy and safety settings. They also told us that parents shouldn't be afraid to set boundaries; they expect and even welcome them.‌

#2. “Be available to engage.”

Kids want trusted adults to be interested in their digital lives and to recognize how important the online world is to them. Be available to engage, and don't be afraid to initiate a conversation.

#3. “Don’t panic when things go wrong.”

When your kid comes to you for help, they may be feeling vulnerable, scared, embarrassed, or upset. Let them know how pleased you are that they've come to you, listen without accusation, ask questions, and focus on solutions.

#4. “Trust me.”

Kids understand that trust has to be earned and expect adult oversight, but they feel greater autonomy is appropriate as they get older. Every child is different and the pace at which they move toward the independent use of technology will vary. However, if your child knows how to navigate platforms safely and they come to you when things go wrong, that's a great foundation for trust.

#5. “Respect my privacy.”

Striking a balance between a kid's expectation of privacy and ensuring they are safe is one of the trickiest aspects of parenting - both on and offline. It can be tough when a child tells you they'd rather you didn't follow them on a platform. It's natural to worry they're up to trouble when really it's likely they just want some space to hang out with friends without being monitored.