Post with Purpose: Sharenting Made Simple

Introduction

In today’s digital world, parents love sharing their children’s milestones online. From their baby’s first steps to their first day of school, social media has become a digital scrapbook. However, sharing your child’s moments—also known as “sharenting”—comes with responsibilities. Being mindful about what you post can protect your child’s privacy and future. This guide will help you navigate the world of sharenting with purpose and care.

What is Sharenting?

Sharenting is a blend of “sharing” and “parenting,” referring to parents who post about their children on social media. While it allows families to celebrate important moments, it also creates a digital footprint for children before they can control their online presence.

According to CyberGhost (CG), the word “sharenting” first gained attention in a 2012 Wall Street Journal article by Steven Leckart. A decade later, the term became widely recognized when the Oxford English Dictionary officially defined it as “the act of posting news, images, or videos of one’s children on social media.

Why Parents Love to Share

The Joy of Capturing Milestones

Every parent loves recording their child’s firsts—first word, first birthday, first soccer game. Social media makes it easy to store and relive these moments.

Staying Connected with Family and Friends

For families living far apart, social media is an excellent way to keep loved ones updated on a child’s growth and achievements.

Building an Online Scrapbook

Some parents see their social media as a virtual album chronicling their child’s journey over the years.

The Risks of Sharenting

Privacy Concerns

Who Can See the Photos?

Once you post an image online, it can be shared, downloaded, or even misused without your knowledge.

Data Collection and Third-Party Access

Social media platforms store and analyze data, meaning that your child’s photos and information may be collected for unknown purposes.

Digital Footprint of Children

A Lifelong Digital Trail

Every picture, video, or story you post contributes to your child’s online presence—something they might not appreciate as they grow older.

Potential Consequences

Future employers, colleges, or even classmates could access old posts, leading to unintended consequences for your child.

Online Safety Risks

Oversharing Personal Details

Including names, locations, and routines can make it easier for strangers to find personal information.

Dangers of Identity Theft and Digital Predators

Cybercriminals can misuse personal details, making children vulnerable to identity theft or other online threats.

How to Post with Purpose

Ask Yourself Before Posting

Would my child approve of this in the future?
Am I revealing too much personal information?

Be Selective with What You Share

Not every moment needs to be public. Choose meaningful content that respects your child’s privacy.

Adjust Privacy Settings

Control Who Sees Your Posts

Use social media privacy settings to limit access to trusted friends and family.

Customize Audience Settings

Many platforms allow you to create private groups or restrict content visibility.

Get Your Child’s Consent

Teach Digital Responsibility

As children grow, involve them in decisions about what is shared.

Respect Their Autonomy

If your child is old enough, ask them if they’re comfortable with a post before sharing it.

Ideal Practices for Responsible Sharenting

Use Private Groups or Family Networks

Consider using private apps like Google Photos, Tinybeans, or WhatsApp to share pictures securely.

Blur Faces and Avoid Identifiable Details

Use editing tools to hide specific details that could reveal personal information.

Be Mindful of Trends and Challenges

Participating in viral trends may expose your child to unwanted attention.

Lead by Example

Children learn from their parents. Demonstrate responsible digital habits to instill awareness in your kids.

Conclusion

Sharenting can be a wonderful way to celebrate parenthood, but it requires careful thought. By prioritizing privacy, seeking consent, and using secure sharing methods, parents can strike a balance between documenting their child’s life and protecting their future. Be mindful, be intentional, and most importantly, post with purpose.