21 November 2024
In a step towards fostering safer online spaces, TikTok has announced a collaboration with America’s National PTA (Parent Teacher Association) under the “Create with Kindness” initiative. This program aims to equip parents and communities with the tools to guide teens in navigating the digital world responsibly while encouraging positive online behaviour.
The “Create with Kindness” program is designed as an interactive platform that sparks meaningful conversations between teens and their families about online safety, digital civility, and creating healthy boundaries. As part of this initiative, TikTok is supporting the National PTA in providing over $300,000 in funding to 100 local and regional Parent Teacher Student Associations (PTSAs) across the United States. These grants will empower high school campuses to host activities and discussions that prioritise online kindness and safety.
This collaboration complements TikTok’s partnership with the Family Online Safety Institute, through which the “Digital Safety Partnership for Families” was launched earlier this year. The resource offers tailored online safety advice, allowing families to make informed decisions about digital safeguarding. Such initiatives underscore TikTok’s growing efforts to position itself as a leader in digital citizenship education.
This has come at a time when social media use among young people has sparked intense debates globally. A recent Ipsos study revealed that 65% of people support banning children under 14 from accessing social media, both inside and outside of school. Concerns about the impact of social media on mental health, well-being, and online safety have united parents, educators, and policymakers worldwide.
In response, governments are taking decisive action. In the UK, technology secretary Peter Kyle has declared that a ban on social media for under-16s is “on the table” as part of efforts to safeguard children online. He recently told the BBC that he is willing to take any measures necessary to protect young users. Similarly, Australia is considering legislation to restrict social media access for children under 16, adding to the mounting pressure on tech platforms.
The push for greater regulation highlights the critical need for digital citizenship lessons in schools. As students spend increasing amounts of time online, it becomes vital to teach them about respectful online interactions, recognising misinformation, and establishing boundaries. Programs like “Create with Kindness” not only address these needs but also empower families to create shared strategies for responsible online engagement.
While TikTok’s efforts to promote online safety are commendable, some observers see these initiatives as a way to pre-empt stricter regulations or bans. By investing in educational programs and collaborating with respected organisations like the National PTA, TikTok may be positioning itself as a socially responsible platform amid growing global scrutiny.
