Oak Knoll Blog

Navigating the TikTok Ban: Guidance for Parents and Children

 

January 19, 2025

Editor's Note: As of 1:50 p.m. EST, TikTok is back online in the United States. This brief disruption (about 14  hours) reminds us of just how deeply social media shapes our daily lives. It’s an opportunity to pause and reflect—not with judgment, but with curiosity—on the role these platforms play in how we connect, create, and grow.

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On January 19, 2025, millions across the United States awoke to the TikTok ban, leaving many children and families navigating a wave of emotions and uncertainty. For children who relied on the platform as a space to connect, express their creativity, and find joy, this moment may feel like a major disruption. The unknown duration of the ban only adds to the questions about what lies ahead.

As users log in and are met with messages preventing access, this pause offers families a chance to reflect together. It’s a moment to consider the role of social media in daily life and to explore new and exciting ways to engage with the world around us. For many children, TikTok was more than just an app — it was a cornerstone of their routine, a spark for their creativity, and a source of belonging. As parents, approaching this transition with empathy and understanding can make all the difference. This is an opportunity to open meaningful conversations and provide the reassurance they need to adjust and grow.

Parents.com says to start by inviting your child to share how they feel about the ban. Listening with an open heart and acknowledging their emotions creates a safe space where they feel heard and supported. These discussions can lead to powerful reflections on how platforms like TikTok have shaped their perspective, sparked connections, and influenced their view of the world. Together, you can explore ways to build mindful digital habits that empower them to use technology with intention.

This change can also open the door to exciting new possibilities. Encourage your child to explore interests beyond their screens — whether it’s picking up a musical instrument, joining a community club, or discovering a love for physical activity. These experiences are more than hobbies; they’re opportunities to build confidence, resilience, and a deeper sense of connection to the world around them.

As you guide them through this transition, help them reflect on their overall relationship with social media. According to Psychology Today, stepping back from constant content can bring clarity and inspire healthier habits online and offline. Studies have shown that reducing screen time can lower stress levels, improve sleep quality, and foster deeper in-person connections. Similarly, Parents.com emphasizes that by engaging in open and empathetic conversations, families can help children process their emotions and explore fulfilling alternatives beyond their devices. Encourage them to think about what TikTok offered them — creativity, connection, or entertainment — and how they can carry those positives forward in new and meaningful ways.

While the TikTok ban, however temporary or permanent, might feel like an abrupt challenge, it’s also an incredible opportunity. Together, you can strengthen family bonds, nurture open communication, and guide children toward discovering new passions and possibilities.