A sudden shutdown of TikTok might feel unsettling, especially for children and teens who spent significant time on the platform. Pre-teens and teens love the social media channel because it not only entertains them, but networks them with friends and other like-minded youth their age. It also gives them a great opportunity to express their creativity when editing videos before sharing.
The social media channel also presents a number of concerns for pre-teens and teens: cyberbullying, social exclusion, and drama among their school’s student body, and often a broader community network that includes numerous schools in the area. The exposures to substance misuse, risky TikTok challenges, and inappropriate/harmful content have posed a variety of health concerns for vulnerable youth, especially those affected by substance use disorders in the family.
Embracing the Change
While this change can bring challenges, it also creates meaningful opportunities for growth, connection, and healthier habits. As parents, you can play an essential role in supporting your pre-teens and teens through this transition and helping them thrive in a TikTok-free world.
TikTok’s engaging, , fast-paced content often glues individuals to screens for hours, potentially affecting their sleep, academic performance, and mental well-being. Without it, time is now available to rediscover hobbies, build face-to-face relationships, and develop healthier habits that support their growth and happiness.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms may appear over the week after the shutdown, such as:
● Irritability/ Frustration/Anxiety about not being able to access TikTok.
● Boredom or difficulty finding enjoyable activities.
● FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) as they adjust to not keeping up with trends.
● Increase/Decrease in Eating/Sleeping
● Difficulty Concentrating
Recognizing these signs can allow parents to step in with support and encouragement before youth turn to other social media platforms as a substitute, which may happen very quickly. Monitoring screen time in preparation for, or in response to, the shutdown will be important if some of these symptoms emerge.
Filling the Void: Healthy Alternatives
Here’s some ideas to support youth at this time and to help prevent falling into the trap of another app:
● Explore New Interests Together Encourage your child to try creative activities like painting, baking, playing an instrument, or learning a new sport. Doing these activities together can strengthen your bond.
● Reignite In-Person Friendships Suggest scheduling playdates or outings with friends. Real-life interactions help develop social skills that virtual connections can’t fully replicate.
● Support Offline Passion Projects Has your child ever wanted to build a model, write a story, play a musical instrument? Is a class available on photography or videomaking that can take their TikTok interest and nurture it into a hobby? Now is the perfect time to dive into these projects.
● Introduce Family Traditions Create opportunities to spend time as a family—game nights, movie marathons, or weekly outings can provide new ways to connect.
● Encourage Rest and Reflection Help youth embrace quiet moments for journaling, reading, or simply relaxing without constant digital stimulation.
● Talk About It Talking openly with youth can be hard, especially when they are hurting. Letting them know that you care about them, and checking in on how they feel about what is happening with TikTok may provide more support than you know. If you were on TikTok often yourself, you can even share some of your own feelings about it shutting down. Point out symptoms you may have observed, and your concerns. Establishing yourself as a resource will mean a lot to them, whether they are ready to talk about it at the time or come back later on after they have had some time to reflect on what you’ve shared.
How to Be a Source of Support as a Parent or Caregiver
● Listen Without Judgment Acknowledge their feelings about losing TikTok without minimizing their experience.
● Set Positive Examples Limit your own social media use to show the benefits of being more present.
● Offer Stability Keep a consistent routine to provide a sense of normalcy during this transition.
Additional Resources
● Social Media and Teen Mental Health: Guide for Parents & Caregivers to Support Healthy Social Media Use Among Teens
● Social Media and Teen Mental Health: Discussion Guide for Teens and Their Parents/Caregivers
● Social Media and Youth Mental Health: US Surgeon General’s Advisory, 2023
● Kids & Tech: 12 Tips for Parents in the Digital Age
● AAP 5Cs of Media Use – Young Teens, 10-14 years
● AAP 5Cs of Media Use – Older Teens, 15-17 years
While TikTok’s impending shutdown may feel like a loss at first, it can be a chance to help children break free from potentially harmful patterns and rediscover the joy of genuine connection and personal growth. By stepping into this moment with empathy and guidance, you can empower them to adapt, thrive, and create a balanced digital relationship moving forward. Together, families can use this change to foster resilience and create a brighter, more intentional future—one free from the endless scroll.
