In today’s digital world, sharing moments of our children’s lives online—affectionately dubbed “sharenting”—has become second nature. Whether it’s celebrating a milestone or posting an adorable snapshot, parents often turn to social media to document and share their family stories.
But with this trend comes an important question: How can we balance celebrating our children online with protecting their privacy? This blog explores the benefits, risks, and strategies for mindful sharenting.
What is Sharenting?
Sharenting refers to the act of parents sharing information, images, or videos of their children online. It can range from posting a funny anecdote to chronicling significant milestones. While it fosters connection with friends and family, it also raises concerns about privacy and consent, especially as children grow older and develop their own digital footprints.
The Appeal of Sharenting
Why do so many parents engage in sharenting?
• Connection: Sharing family moments helps distant relatives and friends stay updated.
• Support: Parenting can feel isolating, and sharing online often fosters community and advice-sharing.
• Celebration: Parents love to showcase their children’s achievements and milestones.
The Risks of Sharenting
While sharenting has its joys, it also comes with risks that are worth considering:
1. Digital Permanence
Once something is shared online, it can be difficult—if not impossible—to erase. Photos and videos may remain accessible even after deletion, potentially resurfacing later in unintended contexts.
2. Data Privacy
Information about children shared online can be collected by data brokers or used in ways parents may not anticipate, from targeted ads to identity theft.
3. Impact on Children’s Autonomy
As children grow, they may feel uncomfortable with their childhood being publicly documented without their consent. It may affect their self-image or lead to embarrassment among peers.
4. Safety Concerns
Sharing identifiable details (e.g., full names, locations, school names) can expose children to risks like cyberstalking or exploitation.
Strategies for Mindful Sharenting
1. Share Selectively
Be mindful of what you share and its potential implications.
• Avoid sharing sensitive or overly personal moments (e.g., potty training, tantrums).
• Consider whether the post might embarrass your child in the future.
2. Protect Identifiable Information
Minimize details that could make your child easily identifiable.
• Avoid tagging locations in real time.
• Refrain from sharing school names, addresses, or personal identifiers.
3. Adjust Privacy Settings
Make use of privacy controls on social media platforms.
• Limit who can see your posts by using private accounts.
• Create friend groups to share family content with a trusted circle.
4. Seek Consent
As your children grow older, involve them in the decision to share their photos or stories.
• Example: “Are you okay if I share this picture with Grandma and our friends on Facebook?”
5. Use Secure Sharing Platforms
For family and close friends, consider private platforms like password-protected photo albums or messaging apps.
6. Think Long-Term
Consider how your posts might affect your child in the future. Will they be proud of these moments being shared, or could it cause discomfort?
7. Educate Yourself and Your Child
Stay informed about digital safety and teach your child about responsible internet use as they grow.
Balancing Celebration and Caution
Mindful sharenting doesn’t mean avoiding social media entirely; it’s about finding a balance that works for your family. For instance:
• Instead of posting a public photo of your child’s first day at school, share it in a private family group.
• Caption your photos thoughtfully to avoid sharing unnecessary details.
A Growing Trend: Child Consent Movements
As children increasingly advocate for their digital rights, movements like “Children’s Privacy Matters” are gaining traction. These initiatives highlight the importance of involving kids in decisions about their online presence. Supporting your child’s autonomy not only fosters trust but also teaches them to value their own privacy.
Benefits of Responsible Sharenting
When done thoughtfully, sharenting can have positive outcomes:
• Strengthened connections with family and friends.
• Documented memories that you and your child can cherish together.
• A model of healthy digital habits for your child.
