Central Coast Council of P&Cs (CCCP&C) has highlighted the need for parents to monitor children’s use of social media as some schools on the Coast call for their communities to ditch the app TikTok after a traumatic video went viral.
CCCP&C President, Sharryn Brownlee, said the group had held several Cyber Bullying Forums and was the first to host the e-Safety Commissioner on the Coast in a session at Mingara Recreation Club attended by more than 350 parents, teachers, principals and directors.
“We also have hosted nights where every Coast-based NSW police officer who works in a school liaison role and child protection areas joined us to present on the risks and penalties that impact on students” she said.
“We are still educating and informing parents of the great risks facing children using the many social media apps targeting children, such as TikTok.
“Parents who are unable to monitor and ensure safe viewing can protect their children by banning apps such as this.”
Brownlee said CCC P&C was very concerned that government regulations are behind in the digital age.
“The ability to share TikTok videos across other platforms is also of great concern” she said.
“Schools across the Central Coast are now running their own events to inform parents of these dangers in partnership with the police and eSafety Commissioner.
“The very important role the media plays in educating the community on the dangers to children cannot be underestimated.
“Working in partnership with schools, P&Cs and parents, we as adults must ensure we protect children.”
The contentious video which was originally posted via Facebook Live has been reposted and shared across various other sites but has seen the most traffic on TikTok, due to the way the app’s recommendation algorithm formats videos.
The video caused global outrage, with families and schools around the world now dealing with the traumatic aftermath of exposure, with some calling for parents and guardians to expunge TikTok from their children’s devices.
For those in need of support, the Kids Helpline is available all day and night on 1800 551 800.
Terry Collins