As people become digitally inclined to the technology, many depend on social media as their safe space. Posting the photos of your children online has become a norm for parents who want to showcase their kids' achievements, happy memories, and more on social media.
While it's fine to upload the happy photos when they are still toddlers, it's also important to consider their online safety especially if there are more people who can see them on several social media platforms.
Everyone is watching when you post stuff online and that's not only your family members, friends, and other people. Even strangers can see what you post on your Facebook or any other social media account.
To minimize the drawbacks of posting your children's photos online while ensuring their safety, here's what you need to know.
Seek Permission
Respecting your child's perspective is the key. Regardless if your kid is still studying in kindergarten or middle school, asking for permission is needed to show respect for their personal space. Aside from that, it also teaches these young children to have a huge respect for their reputation of themselves and, of course, for other people.
It empowers them to set boundaries with their friends and encourages responsible online behavior.
Be Selective and Thoughtful
The term "sharenting" simply means shared parenting, and it implies that this is a two-way process. As a parent, you need to be responsible in posting your kid's photos on social media and refrain from embarrassing them because it might harm their self-image.
Instead, focus on positive aspects and lessons learned. Taking a 24-hour break before sharing can provide valuable perspective. Additionally, creating private spaces, such as a family-only Instagram account, can help maintain control over the audience.
Set a Positive Example
Children learn by observing their parents' behavior. Be mindful of your own technology habits and avoid placing undue importance on online activities or social media popularity. Instead, prioritize real-world connections and model healthy offline behaviors. By doing so, you convey the values you want your children to embrace.
Reflect on Motivations
Before sharing, take a moment to reflect on your intentions. Are you sharing to celebrate your child's accomplishments, seek support, or connect with others? Understanding your motivations and ensuring they align with your values is crucial.
Consider the potential impact on your child and find a balance that respects their feelings while still finding support and camaraderie online.
At the end of the day, it's not all about the people who will view your Facebook post, your tweet, or your Instagram Story about your child. It's all about the social media responsibility that you establish before uploading their photos to the digital environment.
