In the digital age, where smartphones are our constant companions, and social media is an integral part of our lives, 'sharenting' has become an increasingly common practice among parents.
Coined in 2010, 'sharenting' refers to the act of parents sharing their children's lives on social media platforms. It is a way to document those precious moments, connect with friends and family, and seek advice from fellow parents. But like any tool, 'sharenting' must be used with care.
Now, let’s go ahead and explore the art of 'sharenting’ the right way. We will be emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries, safeguarding your child's privacy, ensuring their safety, and maintaining a positive online presence.
Andrea / Pexels / Sharenting is a phenomenon where parents can’t resist the temptation to share the stories of their kids online.
Keep a Limited Circle of Friends on Social Media
Social media allows us to accumulate hundreds or even thousands of friends and followers. However, not everyone in your network needs to see your 'sharenting' posts. Consider creating a private group or a close friends list where you share most of your family updates.
This way, you can control who has access to your children's moments and ensure that only those you trust can see them.
Use Privacy Settings Effectively
Every social media platform offers privacy settings, which you should use to your advantage. Adjust your settings to ensure that your posts are visible only to the people you trust.
Regularly review and update these settings, as social media platforms often change their policies and features.
Alex / Unsplash / Privacy is everything. Do not make your kids prone to privacy breaches while ‘sharenting.’
Protect Personal Information
When sharing your child's milestones, be cautious about revealing personal information, such as full names, birthdates, or the name of their school. This information can be exploited by identity thieves or online predators.
Stick to using nicknames or initials and avoid sharing any details that could be used to identify your child's location or identity.
Avoid Embarrassing Stories
While it is natural to want to share amusing or embarrassing stories about your child, exercise discretion. Consider how your child might feel about those stories when they are older. What is hilarious at the age of five might be mortifying at fifteen.
It is important to strike a balance between sharing amusing anecdotes and respecting your child's future feelings and privacy.
Focus on Positive Stories
While it is essential to share the ups and downs of parenting, emphasize positive and heartwarming stories. Highlight your child's achievements, milestones, and moments of joy. Share your experiences as a parent that can inspire and uplift others.
Vanessa / Pexels / As you ‘sharent,’ make sure that you are focusing on the positive stories about your kids.
'Sharenting' can be a source of support and encouragement for fellow parents. So, focus on the positive aspects of your journey.
Educate Yourself and Your Child
Lastly, educate yourself and your child about the implications of 'sharenting.' Teach your child about online safety and the importance of not sharing personal information with strangers. Keep an open line of communication about your online activities and the potential consequences of oversharing. Empower your child to make informed decisions about their online presence as they grow older.
Thus, ‘Sharenting' the right way is about finding a balance between sharing the joys of parenting with your online community while respecting your child's privacy, safety, and future feelings. So, remember, 'sharenting' can be a wonderful way to connect with loved ones and fellow parents. But it should always prioritize your child's well-being and dignity.
