Imagine this: You post a cute picture of your child on social media. It’s harmless, right? Everyone does it. But what if this simple act of sharing could have serious consequences? That’s the reality of “sharenting”—the practice of parents sharing photos or personal details about their kids online. It may seem innocent, but the dangers lurking behind those likes and comments might shock you.

Bullying on the Rise

Your adorable family photo could easily turn into bullying material. Kids are spending more and more time online, and not all of it is friendly. Imagine your child’s schoolmates using that silly picture you posted to humiliate them in a group chat. It sounds extreme, but it’s happening. And once a photo is on the internet, it’s hard to control who sees it or what they do with it.

A Threat from Strangers

It gets worse. Those innocent photos of your child playing outside or going to school can attract more than just a friendly “like.” Strangers—yes, even criminals—can use this information to track down your child. Some photos are even stolen and reposted on websites meant for much darker purposes. Do you really know who is watching your kids grow up online?

No Privacy for Future Leaders

Let’s fast-forward to the future. Your child is now an adult and decides to run for political office. Suddenly, those goofy baby photos are everywhere, used against them in attack ads. It might seem far-fetched, but it’s a reality for many people. Society can be quick to judge, and photos shared today could have long-term consequences. What happens online doesn’t stay online—it follows you for life.

Creating Unrealistic Expectations

It’s not just about safety and privacy; sharenting could mess with your child’s self-esteem. Constantly posting pictures for likes and comments teaches kids to seek approval from others rather than focusing on their own needs and desires. It’s especially harmful to girls, who already grow up in a world where they are judged more harshly on their appearance.

Is There a Safe Way to Sharent?

Before you swear off social media altogether, there are safer ways to share. Use private accounts where you control who sees your posts. Even then, it’s important to be cautious. Ask yourself: Would my child want this photo shared? Could this post be used to embarrass them in the future? If you’re unsure, it’s probably better not to post.

You could also consider covering your child’s face with an emoji, just like some tech-savvy parents, including Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg. And always avoid sharing sensitive information like their school name, location, or any details that could be used to find them offline.

Final Thoughts

The truth is, sharenting has become so normal that many of us don’t stop to think about the consequences. But as parents, we have a responsibility to protect our kids—not just in the real world but also in the digital one. The next time you’re about to post that adorable picture, take a moment to think: Is this worth the risk? In an age where privacy is a luxury, your child’s safety and future may depend on it.