Whether we like it, accept it, or care, TikTok, the media app that can be used for creating and sharing short videos has captured the attention of a generation and, in doing so, has given us the opportunity to learn what’s working and how we can adapt to better engage kids and young people.
Personally, it took me a long time to figure out what to do with this platform. Finally, I chose to be myself on it. You can follow my experimenting (from dancing, duetting, and silliness) on my TikTok account. In doing so, I learned a few things about why the app is so popular and what we, as parents and teachers, can learn to better connect with Gen Zers.
Gen Zers Want To Be Seen And Heard
While this is neither a new nor groundbreaking discovery, it’s an excellent reminder of where our focus needs to be; on each individual student.
Teachers, how can you modify (even slightly) your next lesson plan to make your students the stars, the heroes, the going viral sensations, or even the engaged fan?
Parents, how distracted are you when you’re home with your kids? How distracted are your kids? Do you have set meals at the table, family time, or structured time away from all distractions? Do you have time set aside where your family can see and hear each other?
What can you do to allow each individual child or student to be seen and heard in the way they want to be seen and heard most?
When in doubt, ask. When kids know you see and hear them, everything changes.
Gen Zers Want To Be Recognized
On TikTok it’s hearts, comments, and shares. And let’s not kid ourselves, no amount of mindset work really soothes the sting of not getting any.
Let’s look at it another way. You know how when you have that awkward conversation with your server at a restaurant because your meal wasn’t quite right? And how great it feels when they not only listen to you, but, without question, go one step further and compensate you in some way?
Now that you’re seeing and hearing your students with fresh and open eyes and ears, take the next step by acknowledging what you see and hear.
This, for me, falls into the category of celebration.
It can be as simple as greeting your kids or students at your door, every day, and saying something or sharing a gesture that lets them know you are doing (and being) more than what is expected.
At home, it could be you taking the time to stop by their room to get some ‘face time’. You don’t even have to go in or ask any questions (which may be met by resistance). Remember, on apps like TikTok, our kids remain in control. They control what they want to see more or less of. A quick smile at the doorway is equivalent to an 8-second video that might make their day.
Why should celebration be reserved for achievement? It’s a powerful practice that also ties in to the next factor:
Gen Zers Want To Feel Good
We are all dealing with a lot. For many, social media is an escape.
Is your home a ‘safe place’ from the outside world? Have you asked your younger ones? Are they more or less open at home than they are at school or elsewhere? What changes could you implement to make your home the most positive place your kids love to be in?
Teachers, what would it look like if you designed your classroom to be a positive escape – not another place that adds more pressure and stress? What if it was a place where students could feel good, really good, about simply being themselves, no matter what their level of achievement is?
How fun is your classroom? Have you actually asked your students to rate it? What is their definition of fun? Do your students feel good about themselves while they are in your class?
If you find kids escaping your class or home to be on TikTok instead, you may want to join them to figure out what it is that is making them feel good, and how you can adapt and incorporate those elements into your own space.
Gen Zers Want To Be Part Of Something Bigger
Trends. Whether it’s the latest hashtag challenge or the ‘dress your pets up’ craze, many of your students are expert trend watchers.
Of course, there are always those who avoid the trends, which, in it of itself is a trend to pay attention to and leverage in your classroom (think complementary teams, discussion groups, debate).
Consider opening your household, classrooms, and lessons up to trends. Use them for project based learning experiences or as a point of discussion.
With a little creativity and adaptation, trends are a very powerful way to not only have kids and young people feel like they are a part of something bigger (and more relevant in their minds), but to also have them feel good, have fun, to be recognized and to be seen and heard.
Ready? TikTok!
Davide Di Giorgio is the number one international best-selling author of Being UNapologetic, a keynote and TEDx speaker, youth advocate, Comparanoia™ expert, and a speaking and confidence consultant for students, teachers, parents, influencers and celebrities. His philanthropic endeavor, Project Being UNapologetic dares to tackle bullying and build confidence and self-esteem while funding dream projects for high school performing arts students. He is currently on a Global Wellness Celebration Tour spreading a message to Compare Less, Celebrate More!
To book Davide Di Giorgio for speaking, interviews, appearances, or consulting, contact him HERE