As a parent, I snap countless photos of my kids. In today’s digital age, I also share many of those moments on social media. As a parenting blogger, I probably post more than the average parent. Most of the people who see my posts? Total strangers! So, is it time to hit the brakes on my online sharing?
A recent piece on NPR.com highlighted the risks associated with “sharenting” – the act of sharing your children’s lives online – and pointed out how kids themselves are starting to voice their concerns about what their parents post. At a meeting with the American Academy of Pediatrics, Dr. Lucy Thompson, a legal professor at the University of Florida, and Dr. Samira Lee, a pediatric assistant professor, discussed a study revealing that kids are advocating for more discretion when it comes to their parents’ online sharing. As Dr. Lee explained, “Parents often say they’re fine without rules, while kids want more boundaries.”
On the surface, this might seem a bit ridiculous. I’m the adult here! I have a 6-year-old and a toddler, and I know what’s best for them (or at least I pretend to). Sure, they might dominate my household and my sanity, but that doesn’t mean they get to dictate my social media strategy!
However, there’s some truth to what these kids are saying. They are growing up in a world saturated with digital sharing and fading privacy. They’ll eventually understand the implications of online life—likely even better than us, the so-called “grown-ups.” Children need guidance, especially when they’re young, and as any parent knows, leading by example is far more impactful than just issuing orders.
So, I think it’s worth reflecting on what we choose to share online. Not only is there the risk of identity theft and bullying, but there’s also a sinister phenomenon called “digital kidnapping,” where someone impersonates your children online. Yikes! I’m not a prude; I love my parenting blog and social media presence (Canada loves me, by the way!), and I’m not shy about posting my kids’ adorably chaotic moments. Sure, I enjoy the occasional embarrassing moment to keep them in line when they hit those teenage years (I’ll need leverage!). But I also recognize that some things are better kept private—after all, a secret weapon is most effective when it’s kept secret!
When it comes to sharing my kids’ lives online, I’m not overly concerned. Worrying about every little potential danger can rob us of enjoying those good times, which, let’s face it, is most of the time. I don’t believe my “sharenting” is an invasion of privacy, but if my kids ever express discomfort about a photo or story, I’ll absolutely respect their wishes. Though I might still share it behind their backs because, let’s be real, Daddy needs those clicks!
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In summary, while sharing moments from our kids’ lives can be a delightful part of parenting, it’s essential to strike a balance. Listening to our children about their comfort levels with sharing is crucial, and modeling good online behavior will help guide them as they navigate their digital futures.