I'm a Dad, and Here's Why I'm Not Posting About My Kid Online

Parents Rethink Sharing Children’s Lives Online Amid Privacy Concerns

A growing number of parents are opting out of sharing their children’s lives on social media, citing privacy concerns and the potential long-term implications of their online presence. Reports indicate that nearly 70% of parents have considered the consequences of sharing their child’s milestones on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Concerns range from privacy breaches to the permanence of online content, which can be accessed by unintended audiences long after posts are made.

Many parents are grappling with the ethical dilemma of sharing their children’s lives without their permission, particularly those with teens and pre-teens. Additionally, parents are motivated by the desire to protect their children's mental health, as the impact of social media on self-esteem and body image is well-documented. Parents worry that sharing too much can contribute to unrealistic expectations and social pressures.

The rise of online predators and cyberbullying has heightened awareness around children's safety. Parents recognize that sharing personal information can inadvertently expose their children to danger. Many families are adopting stricter privacy settings or limiting their online sharing altogether.

Some parents have created private family groups or use messaging apps for sharing among a controlled audience, while others are abandoning social media for traditional photo albums. A considerable segment of parents prioritizes their children's autonomy and future digital identity over the immediate gratification of likes and shares, signaling a shift in societal norms surrounding childhood and privacy.