How to Decide Whether to Post Your Child’s Photo on Social Media
A few hours after his birth, a picture of my son appeared on the Internet. Some posts were written by relatives, others – by friends who want to share our joy. No photo was published with my consent.
I can’t say I haven’t made bad decisions on social media. There was this case where I posted a picture of my son, about a year ago, having some, erm, bathroom issues. Some parents found this picture just ridiculous, but most people were just shocked.
This experience got me thinking. I knew I didn’t want anyone to share pictures of my child that I didn’t approve of. But it was clear that I didn’t always have a clear judgment of what to publish. I love keeping my friends and family updated by sharing images, but where is the border?
The extent to which you share your kids on social media – via photos, videos, or stories – is a personal decision. Some parents are fine with their baby becoming another viral sensation . Others, like me, minimize the number of images of their children on the Internet. Maybe you hit somewhere in the middle.
Wherever your own line is, it’s important to consider the potential consequences of over-sharing. Before hitting publish, remember the following rules:
Ask your child for permission
By the age of four (if not earlier), children have their own opinions about what they would like others to know and see. Social media is no exception. Before posting, ask your child if they like what you want to tell about them.
If your child is not old enough to speak, consider a “awkward return” scenario. How would you feel if you were a child and your parents showed this image to all their friends? If the thought causes the slightest hesitation, it is probably worth revising your post.
It’s also important to make sure your loved ones are looking for approval before sharing pictures of your kids.
Consider the possible long-term consequences
Online recording makes images and videos available virtually indefinitely. Before posting each social media post, think about how the content will affect your child’s image, future career opportunities, and relationships with others. Do not use your child’s image in controversial content or anything that might cause controversy. You don’t want them to have to live with the long-term consequences of your one-time decision.
Consider the possibility of abuse
Photos are really easy to use for unintended purposes. For example, on Facebook, anyone can upload images and save them, even if they are not friends with that person.
Unfortunately, if you are in the public eye, you need to be extra careful when sharing photos of your family. Journalist David French saw pictures of his 7-year-old daughter photographed in gas chambers after he spoke out against Donald Trump. It is horrible to think that such an innocent thing as the image of a child can be turned into a weapon, but these days it is a reality.
Do not share location information
Spreading information about where your child goes to school or daycare is a well-known hazard. But sharing other location information, such as your street, nearby stores, or neighborhood, can make it easier for online predators to track your daily routine and locate your family. This applies to checks on Facebook and Instagram. If you want to share the highlights of your child’s life, do not include all the details.
The most important thing to consider when posting your child’s images is safety, not the ability to share . Think before you share, and do your best to ensure that the content doesn’t negatively affect your child’s future.