Introduction to Sharenting

In today's digital age, social media has become an integral part of many professions, including parenting influencers and bloggers who share photos and details about their children online as part of their job. This practice, known as sharenting, involves posting images and updates about children on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. While it can be a great way to connect with audiences and build a community, there are significant risks involved that parents should be aware of.

Benefits of Sharenting

For many parents, sharing photos of their children online offers several benefits:

• Community Building: Social media platforms allow parents to connect with others who share similar experiences, creating a sense of community and support.
• Professional Opportunities: For influencers and bloggers, sharing family moments can be a crucial part of their brand identity and career.
• Keeping Loved Ones Updated: For families living far apart, social media provides a convenient way to keep relatives informed about children's milestones and achievements.

Risks Associated with Sharenting

Despite the benefits, there are several risks associated with sharenting that parents should consider:

• Privacy Concerns: Sharing personal details about children can lead to identity theft and unwanted attention from predators. A significant concern is that photos can contain geotags or other identifying information that could be used to track children[1][3].

• Digital Footprint: The permanence of digital content means that once something is posted online, it can be difficult to remove. This can lead to embarrassment for children as they grow older and may impact their future opportunities[1][3].

• Predator Risks: There is a risk that photos shared online could end up on inappropriate websites or be used by predators. Studies have shown that a significant portion of child predator content originates from family social media posts[3][5].

• Consent and Control: Children have no control over their digital footprint when parents post about them without consent. As children grow older, they may feel their privacy has been violated[5].

Balancing Professional Needs with Safety

For parents who need to share photos of their children as part of their job, it's crucial to strike a balance between professional obligations and online safety:

• Minimize Identifying Details: Avoid sharing photos that include identifying information such as school uniforms, street signs, or geotags.

• Use Privacy Settings: Ensure that privacy settings are maximized to limit who can see the posts. However, remember that even with strict settings, content can still be shared or screenshot by others[1].

• Educate Children: As children grow older, involve them in the decision-making process about what is shared online. This helps them understand the implications of social media and teaches them about responsible online behavior[1][3].

• Consider Alternatives: Instead of sharing personal photos, consider using stock images or illustrations for professional content when possible.

The Future of Sharenting

As technology evolves, so do the risks and benefits associated with sharenting. It's essential for policymakers and tech companies to develop guidelines and tools that protect children's online safety while respecting parental autonomy. Initiatives like the "right to be forgotten" in some European countries offer a model for managing digital footprints, though implementing such policies in regions with strong free speech protections can be challenging[3].

Conclusion

While sharenting can be a valuable tool for building professional brands and communities, it's crucial for parents to be aware of the potential downsides. By taking proactive steps to protect children's privacy and safety, parents can ensure that their online presence benefits both their career and their family's well-being.