Sharing moments of our children's lives on social media—commonly known as 'sharenting'—has become a widespread practice. While it allows families to share memories, it's essential to understand the potential risks associated with exposing children's personal information online.
What Is Sharenting? 'Sharenting' refers to parents sharing content about their children on social media platforms. This can include photos, videos, and anecdotes. While often well-intentioned, it's crucial to consider the long-term implications of creating a digital footprint for your child without their consent.
Potential Risks of Sharenting:
Privacy Invasion: Once information is online, controlling its distribution becomes challenging. Personal details can be accessed by unintended audiences, leading to potential misuse.
Digital Kidnapping: Photos of children can be downloaded and misused by strangers, sometimes even leading to identity theft or fraudulent online profiles.
Bullying and Harassment: As children grow, the content shared about them may become a source of embarrassment or bullying among peers.
Future Implications: A child's digital footprint can impact future opportunities, including college admissions and employment, as online content is increasingly reviewed by institutions and employers.
Tips to Protect Your Child's Digital Footprint:
Limit Sharing: Be selective about the content you share. Avoid posting sensitive information such as full names, birthdates, or location details.
Adjust Privacy Settings: Ensure your social media accounts have strict privacy settings, allowing only trusted individuals to view your posts.
Seek Consent: As children mature, involve them in decisions about what is shared online, respecting their autonomy and privacy.
Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the potential risks of sharenting and the evolving landscape of online privacy.
While sharing your child's milestones online can be tempting, it's vital to weigh the benefits against the potential risks. By taking proactive steps to protect your child's digital footprint, you contribute to their safety and privacy in the digital world.
For a more in-depth understanding of online safety and practical strategies to protect your child's digital presence, consider reading Lydia Agbobidi's book, Keeping Families Safe on Social Media: A Digital Parenting Guide to Protecting Neurotypical and Neurodiverse Children Online. This comprehensive guide offers valuable insights tailored for both neurotypical and neurodiverse children
