TAMPA, Fla. -- Dozens of parents attended a workshop to learn more about social media platforms like TikTok.
The PTA and TikTok hosted a workshop on Thursday at Buchanon Middle School to celebrate Safer Internet Day.
Safer Internet Day is marked each February to promote safer online habits.
Victoria Yore is a writer and social media specialist. She educated parents about TikTok and how to watch their child's social media.
"I honestly think parents need to get on TikTok. I know the kids are going to hate me for that, but I think parents will understand it more," said Yore.
Yore encourages people to think of their social media platforms like their house. Be cautious of strangers.
"It's your house, right? Social media is like your house and you're not inviting everybody out there into your house. You want to keep your house a safe space," she said.
"You want to think about who are you going to let in your house. You're going to let your friends in your house. You're going to let your family in your house," she added.
The PTA was awarded a $1,000 grant from the National PTA to help engage families in Tampa in conversations about digital safety and responsible online habits. The grant is sponsored by TikTok. The local PTA was one of 30 PTAs nationwide to receive a grant.
Parents like Elizabeth A'Hearn said she monitors her son's phone and knows his password.
"I've always said to my kids, 'It's you I can trust. You need to be aware of who is on the other side and it might not be who you think it is,'" said A'Hearn.
Other parents said they can protect their children better if they become familiar with social media.
"I just want to be an educated family. You can't completely avoid technology, but if we're educated I'll feel better and hopefully they'll be more confident and make better decisions," said Meloneese Beal, a parent.
Click here for more information on Tik Tok safety mode and screen time management
