Parents Warned About Hidden Risks of 'Sharenting'

As the school holidays come to an end, a new wave of first-day photos and milestone moments are about to flood our feeds.

But as you get ready to share, experts are urging parents to pause and think about the digital footprint they're creating for their children before the new term even begins. 

ONLINE STORY

Research shows that the average parent will post nearly 1,500 photos of their child before they turn five, and more than 80% of children have an online presence by the age of two. The new school year marks a significant increase in this digital sharing, adding a fresh layer of complexity to a child's online story.

DIGITAL FOOTPRINT

Sharing your child’s milestones is a wonderful way to celebrate parenting, but it’s important to be mindful about what and how much you post. Every photo or story creates a digital footprint that your child can’t control yet, which could affect their sense of privacy and self-image as they grow.

THE HIDDEN RISKS BEHING BACK-TO-SCHOOL 'SHARENTING'.

Most parents post with love and pride, but there are a few things worth keeping in mind:

• Location, location, location: A photo of your child in their new uniform, or outside their school, can easily reveal their daily routine and location to strangers.

• Friends in the frame: Always ask for permission before posting photos that include other children. Just as you want to protect your child’s privacy, other parents have the same right.

• Photos can travel far: Even in private parent groups or closed social media accounts, a screenshot can be taken and reshared. Once it’s online, it’s hard to control where it ends up.

• Digital footprints last: What feels cute or funny now could still be searchable when your child is a teenager, or applying for schools or jobs in the future.

WHAT TO DO INSTEAD

• Ditch the digital labels - Avoid calling your child things like “wild” or “bossy” online; they’ll grow into those words whether they suit them or not.

• Think long-term, not likes - Ask yourself: Would I be happy for my child to see this in 10 years? If not, maybe don’t post it now.

• Keep a private photo journal - Use a physical memory book, or a secure cloud album to document milestones just for your family, no likes or comments needed.