10 August 2026
The rise of “Sharenting”
In today’s digital age, your childhood memories might not just be tucked away in photo albums—they could be all over the internet. This phenomenon, known as “sharenting” (a blend of sharing and parenting), sees parents posting their children’s milestones, antics, and sometimes embarrassing moments online. While it often comes from love and pride, there are some serious risks involved.
The hidden risks of sharenting
Think a cute baby photo is harmless? Think again. Even innocent images can inadvertently expose sensitive information. Researchers from the University of Southampton warn that posting details like birthdays, pet names, or schools can create opportunities for identity theft. And if celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow get it wrong, ordinary families aren’t immune to digital missteps.
Then there’s the risk of cyberbullying and online predators. A seemingly harmless school photo could be turned into a meme or manipulated in ways no parent intended. With AI tools advancing rapidly, this risk is only growing.
Overexposure can also affect children’s self-esteem. Kids who grow up being showcased online may start to equate their worth with likes and comments, rather than real-life achievements. Cases like Shari Franke of the YouTube family channel 8 Passengers highlight how public exposure can lead to long-term psychological consequences.
Finding the balance
Not all online sharing is dangerous. Families can still enjoy the benefits of digital memories by practising controlled sharing:
- Use private groups with vetted members.
- Discuss consent openly with children.
- Consider blurring faces or using emoji masks to protect identities.
The key is balance. Children should have some control over their digital narrative, while parents can still celebrate those precious moments.
Stay smart, stay safe
Sharenting isn’t going away, but with awareness and careful habits, families can protect privacy while still sharing the joy. Next time your parents want to post that embarrassing band camp photo, think twice and speak up!
Want to know more? Kat, the Craig’n’Dave Lesson Hacker, explains all.
For more Lesson Hacker videos, check out the Craig’n’Dave YouTube playlist HERE.
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