Summer is a time for fun and relaxation, and for many families, it means spending more time by the water. Whether it’s at the beach, a lake, or your backyard pool, ensuring your children’s safety around water is crucial. Here are some essential summer water safety tips for children to help you enjoy the season worry-free.

Importance of Water Safety

Water-related activities are a great way to beat the heat and have fun, but they also come with risks. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is a leading cause of unintentional injury death for children aged 1-14. By following these summer water safety tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safe environment for your children.

1. Constant Supervision

One of the most important summer water safety tips for children is constant supervision. Never leave children unattended around water, even for a moment. Designate a responsible adult to watch the children at all times. This person should avoid distractions like reading, using a phone, or engaging in deep conversation.

2. Learn to Swim

Enrol your children in swimming lessons. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends swimming lessons for children as young as one year old. Knowing how to swim is a crucial skill that can save lives. Many local community centres, YMCAs, and swimming schools offer lessons tailored to different age groups and skill levels.

3. Use Life Jackets

For non-swimmers or children who are not confident in the water, life jackets are a must. Ensure that the life jackets are U.S. Coast Guard-approved and appropriately sized for your child. Inflatable toys or “floaties” are not a substitute for life jackets and should not be relied upon for safety.

4. Install Barriers and Alarms

If you have a pool at home, installing barriers such as a fence at least four feet high with a self-closing, self-latching gate can prevent unsupervised access. Pool alarms and covers add an extra layer of protection. These measures are essential summer water safety tips for keeping children safe around home pools.

5. Educate Children on Water Safety Rules

Teach your children basic water safety rules, such as no running near the pool, no diving in shallow water, and always swimming with a friend. Make sure they understand the importance of following these rules and the potential consequences of not doing so.

6. Be Prepared for Emergencies

Accidents can happen, even with the best precautions. Being prepared is a key part of summer water safety tips for children. Learn CPR and keep a first aid kit handy. Ensure you have a phone nearby to call for help if needed. Many organisations, such as the American Red Cross, offer CPR and first aid courses. You can check your local area for CPR and First Aid Training. It is a good training to have and can be used in many emergencies.

7. Check Water Conditions

Before heading to natural bodies of water like lakes, rivers, or the ocean, check the water conditions. Look for signs of strong currents, dangerous wildlife, or hazardous weather conditions. Follow any posted warnings or advisories, and choose swimming areas with lifeguards on duty.

8. Hydrate and Protect from the Sun

Spending time in the water can make it easy to forget about hydration and sun protection. Encourage your children to drink plenty of water and take breaks to apply sunscreen with a high SPF. Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses can also help protect against harmful UV rays.

9. Avoid Alcohol Around Water

For adults, it’s important to avoid consuming alcohol while supervising children in or around water. Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction time, increasing the risk of accidents. Staying sober ensures you are alert and capable of responding quickly in case of an emergency.

Conclusion

Following these summer water safety tips for children can help ensure a fun and safe experience for your family. Remember that vigilance, education, and preparation are key water safety components. Enjoy the water responsibly and make the most of your summer adventures!

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Drowning Prevention.
2. HealthyChildren.org. Swimming Lessons for Children.
3. American Red Cross. (n.d.). Water Safety Tips.

These references provide reliable and comprehensive information to ensure you and your family stay safe around water this summer.

The post 9 Summer Water Safety Tips for Children appeared first on Childhood Central.

We have the essential heat wave tips for 2025. This summer, temperatures are soaring in many parts of the world. Europe is facing one of its hottest summers ever recorded, with France, Spain, and Portugal experiencing extreme heat. North America is also seeing record-breaking temperatures in several regions. Scientists say this is largely due to a weather system called a “heat dome,” which traps hot air and prevents it from escaping. As these extreme weather events become more common, families need clear and practical strategies to keep children cool, safe, and healthy.

In this article, we will share six heat wave tips to help your family manage the 2025 heat wave with calm and confidence.

What Is a Heat Dome and Why Does It Matter?

A heat dome happens when a strong high-pressure system traps warm air in place. This can lead to long periods of extreme heat and very little cloud cover or rain. Without shade, wind, or relief, temperatures can stay dangerously high for days or even weeks. This summer, Europe is feeling the effects of these intense conditions.

Understanding the cause helps us prepare. A mindful summer begins with knowing how and why these heat waves happen, so we can protect our children in simple and effective ways.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

1. Heat Wave Tips: Make Hydration a Daily Habit

One of the most important ways to protect children during a heat wave is to keep them hydrated. Drinking water regularly helps the body stay cool and function properly. Experts recommend that children aged 9–12 generally need to drink 3–8 ounces of water every 20 minutes during physical activity to stay hydrated.

Check out our poster “How Much Water Should Children Drink“. There are also more printables available on this page.

Simple ideas to help children stay hydrated:

• Give water in fun, reusable bottles.
• Freeze water with fruit slices for a refreshing treat.
• Offer water-rich foods like watermelon and cucumber.

Avoid sugary drinks, which can increase dehydration. Staying hydrated is an easy, everyday step that makes a big difference.

2. Heat Wave Tips: Create a Cool Space at Home

If possible, set up a shaded and cool area at home. This can be indoors with a fan and curtains closed during the hottest part of the day, or outside under a large umbrella or tree.

In Paris, schools created OASIS schoolyards with shade, plants, and light-colored surfaces to reduce heat and provide safe, cooling spaces for children. These changes helped lower ground temperatures and keep children more comfortable. You can try something similar at home by:

• Creating green spaces in your garden, balcony or your home
• Using light-coloured cloths or mats on the ground
• Keeping windows open in the evening to bring in fresh air

These small changes help create a safe space where children can rest and play.

3. Heat Wave Tips: Plan Daily Activities Around the Heat

During a heat wave, the hottest hours are usually between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. It is best to plan outdoor play in the early morning or later in the evening. Rest, reading, quiet games, and drawing can all be great indoor options for the hottest part of the day.

Heat can affect children’s energy levels. Keep routines flexible. Allow naps or quiet time when needed. A mindful summer is about paying attention to your children’s physical needs and slowing down as necessary.

4. Heat Wave Tips: Dress Lightly and Stay Sun-Safe

Light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing made of cotton or linen can help children stay cool. Hats and sunglasses protect the head and eyes, while sunscreen is important to prevent sunburn.

Simple tips:

• Choose wide-brimmed hats for better shade.
• Wear breathable clothing that covers the skin.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours.

Being sun-smart keeps children comfortable and reduces the risk of heat exhaustion.

5. Heat Wave Tips: Know the Signs of Overheating

It is important to recognise the signs of heat exhaustion in children. Watch for:

• Flushed or very hot skin
• Tiredness, dizziness, or confusion
• Nausea or headache
• Fast breathing or heart rate

If any of these signs appear:

• Move the child to a cool, shaded area
• Offer water or a cool drink
• Use a damp cloth on the forehead and neck

If symptoms don’t improve quickly, seek medical attention. Knowing the signs helps you act quickly and calmly.

6. Heat Wave Tips: Support Each Other During the Heat

Heat waves can be hard on everyone. Look out for neighbours, grandparents, and families without air conditioning. Community support makes a difference.

Encourage your child to rest, slow down, and stay indoors during very hot days. Read together, tell stories, or create something with crafts. These quiet moments support connection and create lasting memories, even during a heat wave.

A Mindful Summer Means Staying Cool and Connected

The 2025 heat wave is challenging, but with thoughtful planning and gentle care, families can stay safe and well. By staying hydrated, adjusting your routine, and watching for signs of heat exhaustion, you can protect your children during extreme temperatures. A mindful summer means making small, smart choices—and staying connected through it all.

The post Heat-Wave Tips For 2025: 6 Simple, Expert Ideas to Keep Children Cool and Safe appeared first on Childhood Central.

Photo by Chris wade NTEZICIMPA

Introduction: Co-Parenting in the Digital Age Is More Than a Hashtag

In today’s world, co-parenting in the digital age isn’t just about school schedules and holiday swaps. It’s also about screen time, online privacy, and social media sharing. As more of parenting takes place in digital spaces, some families are struggling to stay on the same page, especially when it comes to posting about their kids online. A recent, very public example is the evolving situation between singer Halle Bailey and YouTuber/rapper DDG, and their baby boy, Halo.

Their story highlights a bigger issue: how do co-parents navigate sharenting in a way that respects each other, protects their child, and still allows them to stay connected? It’s not always easy. But as more parents go through separations or co-parent from different households, these conversations are becoming more important than ever.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Halle Bailey (@hallebailey)

Background: Baby Halo and a Family in the Spotlight

Halle Bailey and DDG welcomed their son, Halo, in December 2023. Though they initially kept the pregnancy and birth private, the couple later began sharing glimpses of family life, including sweet vacation photos. The first time fans got to see Halo’s face was in a series of Instagram posts Halle shared in March 2024, which quickly went viral.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Halle Bailey (@hallebailey)

Since then, however, things have taken a more complicated turn. Halle and DDG’s relationship reportedly ended, and they are now involved in legal proceedings over custody and parental rights.

Disagreements About Digital Boundaries

In July 2024, Halle Bailey filed for legal and physical custody of Halo. According to reports, she asked the court for permission to make decisions regarding Halo’s education and healthcare.

• Read more about Halle’s custody request
• Temporary custody ruling

DDG responded publicly in a now-deleted YouTube video, saying he felt like a “nanny” who gets to see his son only under strict conditions. He also expressed frustration over feeling left out of key parenting decisions, including how and when Halo is shown online.

• DDG shares his side

Most recently, in June 2025, DDG filed an emergency court motion asking a judge to prevent Halle from travelling internationally with Halo—specifically to Italy, where Halle had upcoming work obligations. He also attempted to further limit her custodial authority, citing concerns about Halo’s safety and alleging emotional harm. However, the court denied his request, stating there was insufficient evidence to restrict Halle’s custodial rights or her travel plans. The judge’s decision reaffirmed her ability to parent and make decisions for Halo in a way that respects both their privacy and well-being.

• DDG asks the court to block travel
• Judge denies travel ban request

What This Tells Us About Co-Parenting and Sharenting

The Halle-DDG situation isn’t unique. Many parents navigating co-parenting in the digital age struggle to align on boundaries, especially when they have different values, levels of fame, or relationships with social media. But their story gives us some helpful reminders.

1. Talk About Sharenting Early

Even before a child is born, it helps to have a conversation about how (or if) you’ll share them online. What platforms will you use? Will you show their face? These are decisions best made together, not in court.

2. Keep the Focus on the Child

The most important question isn’t “What do I want to post?” but “How will this affect my child?” When co-parents put the child’s well-being first, it’s easier to make choices that feel respectful to everyone.

3. Be Clear About Consent

Even though babies can’t give consent, both parents should. That means asking each other before posting, especially after a breakup. It’s also good practice for when your child is older and can start expressing their own preferences.

4. Set Boundaries with Friends and Family

Sharenting disagreements often go beyond the parents themselves. Grandparents, aunts, and even fans can repost or screenshot content. Having clear boundaries and privacy settings can help prevent problems before they start.

5. Legal Back-Up Might Be Necessary

When respectful communication breaks down, legal action—like what Halle Bailey pursued—may be the only path forward. In those cases, courts will usually consider the child’s best interests, including privacy and safety.

Conclusion: Sharenting Is a Co-Parenting Issue, Too

Mindful sharenting isn’t just for living under the same roof. It’s a powerful tool for co-parents, too. As we’ve seen in the case of Halle and DDG, when parents split, their online values don’t always align. But keeping communication open, staying focused on the child, and building a shared strategy can help families move forward with more care and less conflict.

As co-parenting in the digital age becomes more complex, conversations like this aren’t just helpful. They’re necessary.

Have you considered any of these sharenting lessons for your co-parenting in the digital age?

The post Co-Parenting in the Digital Age: 5 Sharenting Lessons from Halle Bailey and DDG’s Fight Over Baby Halo appeared first on Childhood Central.

Photo by PNW Production

In a world where sharing our lives online has become second nature, parents face a unique challenge: how to celebrate their children online without putting their privacy at risk. A lot of talk around “sharenting”—sharing content about your children on social media—focuses on the risks. But more and more parents are choosing a different path. They’re turning to something called “mindful sharenting”: a more thoughtful, intentional way of navigating social media that keeps both connection and children’s privacy in mind.

What Is Sharenting?

Sharenting is a combination of “sharing” and “parenting.” It means posting photos, videos, or personal updates about your children online. It’s become normal among millennial parents, many of whom use social media to find support, stay connected, and share the ups and downs of parenting.

Defining Mindful Sharenting

Mindful sharenting doesn’t mean never posting about your children again. It’s more about thinking before you share. It’s about asking: Why am I posting this? Who’s going to see it? How might this affect my child later on?

This approach comes from mindful and positive parenting principles—things like emotional awareness, empathy, and sticking to your values. It’s about showing up online with the same kind of thoughtfulness we try to bring to everyday parenting.

Why Are Parents Choosing Mindful Sharenting?

A 2023 study in Frontiers in Psychology by Walrave and colleagues found that many parents start sharing more mindfully after things go wrong, like a photo being shared without permission, or feeling uncomfortable with how much family or friends are posting. Others simply want their children to have control over their own digital stories as they grow up.

Some parents are also thinking about things like facial recognition, online safety, and cyberbullying. And for a lot of families, the COVID-19 lockdowns brought this all into sharper focus: yes, social media helped us stay connected, but it also raised questions about boundaries and what we really want to share.

Mindful Sharenting in Practice: Real-World Strategies

So, how does mindful sharenting work in everyday life? Here are some things parents are doing:

• Taking children’s photos from behind or from a distance
• Sharing just small details (like a tiny hand holding a flower)
• Covering faces with emojis or using filters
• Leaving out full names and exact locations
• Posting in private groups or family-only apps
• Setting boundaries with friends and family about what gets posted

These small shifts can make a big difference—and still let you enjoy the fun of sharing milestones, memories, and proud moments.

Comparing Sharenting and Mindful Sharenting

Why Mindful Sharenting Matters

Children today are growing up with a digital presence before they even understand what that means. Mindful sharenting says: let’s be a little more careful. Let’s treat our children’s stories with care. It’s not about fear—it’s about balance. And it’s about raising children who can feel proud, not exposed, when they look back at their online footprints.

Conclusion: A More Conscious Digital Future

Mindful sharenting isn’t about getting it perfect. It’s about doing your best to share with care. It encourages parents to slow down, think it through, and post in ways that protect and respect their children. In a digital world that moves fast, this kind of pause can go a long way for our children and us.

Ready to start sharing more mindfully?

Subscribe to our newsletter for tips on parenting, child privacy, and how to build a safer, more respectful online presence for your family.

Let’s raise a generation that feels seen, but never exposed.

The post Mindful Sharenting: How to Share Children Online Safely in 2025 appeared first on Childhood Central.

What is Positive Parenting?

Positive parenting is parental practices that benefit the full development of children through non-violence, care, recognition, guidance and the establishment of limits (Consejo de Europa, 2006 in Pastor et al. 2015).

In this article, you’ll find the information you need to learn more about positive parenting and gain the confidence to start putting these practices to work.

Parenting Then and Now

For a long time, it was said that parenting was a job without a manual and that once you become a parent, you could just “wing it”.

However, often, “winging it” meant that we borrowed from our own experiences with our parents, or followed instructions from the elders in the family, churches or communities.

While these practices can be intuitive and helpful at times, they may not be in the best interest of our children.

Nowadays, we have a better understanding of child development and what might benefit our children thanks to research, changes in attitudes and laws that protect them from harm.

Researchers studying parental styles have found that some parental practices have been shown to be more effective than others.

For example, parental practices that include warmth, responsiveness and setting boundaries for children are often associated with better child development outcomes (D. Baumrind, 1991).

These are the parental practices that are the foundations of positively parenting children.

What are the Characteristics of Positive Parenting?

Positive parental practices can often be mistaken for permissive parenting. That is, the type of parenting without boundaries and is often characterised by neglect.

Instead, parenting positively involves recognising your children as individuals with their own thoughts and feelings, providing them with love, kindness and compassion, and communicating the rules, expectations and consequences of misbehaviour (UNICEF).

Positive parenting approaches are especially helpful during toddler meltdowns. Learn how to apply them in this guide on managing 3-year-old temper tantrums. It also extends to how we share our children’s lives online. See our guide on sharenting and online boundaries.

When you approach parenting in this way, you can build a mutually respectful relationship with your children, which will increase their confidence and give them important life skills to successfully go through this world (UNICEF).

This is why positive parental practices have been shown to have better outcomes for children.

Here are a few more of its characteristics:

1. Works with children’s strengths instead of picking at their weaknesses
2. Understands children’s developmental needs and responds appropriately
3. Recognises, rewards and reinforces positive behaviours
4. Shows empathy
5. Recognises the child as an individual with rights
6. Builds trust, communication and respect in the parent-child relationship
7. Practices non-violence in the parent-child relationship

Resource

You can also download all our free posters, like the one below, on positive parenting from our free printables page.

Sources:

(2021). Retrieved from nct.org.uk: https://www.nct.org.uk/life-parent/parenting-styles-and-approaches/what-positive-parenting-and-how-it-done

Baumrind D. The influence of parenting style on adolescent competence and substance abuse. Journal of Early Adolescence. 1991;11:56–95. doi: 10.1177/0272431691111004.

NSPCC. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/media/1195/positive-parenting.pdf

Pastor, C., Ciurana, A., Navajas, A., Cojocaru, D., & Vazquez, N. (2015). Positive Parenting: Lessons from Research. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/288829235_Positive_Parenting_Lessons_from_Research

UNICEF, Introduction to Positive Parenting

The post What is Positive Parenting? appeared first on Childhood Central.

Parents have been sharing pictures and updates of their children for a long time. However, since the creation of social media, this parental activity has become something entirely different: sharenting.

What is sharenting, and should you stop doing it? In this article, we look at the meaning of sharenting and the main concerns around the practice to help you decide.

What is Sharenting?

Sharenting is the practice of parents sharing pictures, videos, updates and digital representations of their children online and on social media.

Sharenting has become popular with the rise of social media, which has made sharing content, thoughts, and opinions instant and global.

Sharenting Statistics

Although parents sharing information and updates about their children with friends and family is nothing new, sharenting has taken this innocuous activity to a whole new level.

Research shows that the average child would have around 1,500 pictures posted of them by their parents by the time they reach 5 years old. Additionally, parents share an average of 300 photos of their children online each year.

Parents’ oversharing of aspects of their children’s lives online is very common. Data have shown that 77% of parents admit to sharing pictures, videos and stories of their children online. Twenty-four per cent of those parents have public profiles where images and videos of their children can be seen by anyone.

The data also reveal that 8 in 10 parents have friends or followers they have never met in real life.

This is particularly concerning as anyone can access the vast amount of information that parents share about their children, and some of these people may use this information maliciously.

Sharenting: Dangers and Concerns

As you read this article, you might be thinking about your sharenting habits and wondering if you should stop doing it. Here are some of the main concerns that might influence your decision about how much of your children you should or shouldn’t share online.

1. Privacy Concerns

There is a general consensus among child rights and digital safety experts about children’s privacy when it comes to parental oversharing online.  Parents have a role in protecting their children’s privacy and reputation, whether that be on or offline.

However, parents often share personal and identifiable information about their children online without thought or full knowledge of how these habits can result in the loss of their children’s privacy, compromise their safety, and leave an undesirable digital footprint.

In fact, research has shown that 80% of parents use their children’s real names when sharing information about them. Meanwhile, only 10% of parents say they are confident in managing the privacy settings on social networking sites.  

Lack of precaution in sharing such sensitive information can lead to more serious threats to their children’s privacy and online safety, such as digital kidnapping and identity theft.

Data from the USA showed that fourteen per cent of American parents said their children’s identities had been stolen. Meanwhile, 53% of parents said social media was the biggest risk to children’s identity.

2. Artificial Intelligence and Your Child’s Future

Along with privacy concerns and children’s immediate safety online, you need to consider the future impact of oversharing your children online.

With the vast amount of videos, photos, audio, stories and identifiable information shared of your children, there is a growing danger of what that might mean for your children in the age of artificial intelligence.

As fears about the impact of AI technology on our lives and the future dangers to our existence persist, many children’s rights and protection experts are looking at the near and future dangers that AI pose to our children.

They are sounding the alarm that AI technology could be used to manipulate children’s data and misrepresent them online, or be used maliciously to harm children and their parents.

This recent advert about the potential dangers that lie ahead paints a chilling picture.

3. Child Exploitation Concerns

Sharenting may have started out at the beginning of social media as just parents wanting to keep distant family members and friends up-to-date with their children. Indeed, for many parents, that still remains the case.

However, parents sharing videos and images of their children online has evolved into big business with many family blogs, vlogs and parenting accounts of ordinary parents making money online off their children who are now considered “content”.  

Experts are now concerned about the blurred lines between the parent and boss in the parent-child relationship.

Children working and having their parents as managers is nothing new; think of child entertainers, models and actors, but family vlogs, blogs, and online parent content creators have added a new dynamic to the mix.

One of the major concerns of sharenting as a business model for families is the issue of child exploitation.

Unlike other forms of child work in the past, children of social media influencers or who are kidfluencers never seem to go home after work because work is always at home.

Nobody knows how many hours a day children are made to work for, the real economic beneficiaries, and the potential consequences for children’s development and well-being.

The law doesn’t seem to be keeping up with this era in child development to dictate how many hours children should be filmed for social media and how much they should be compensated.

Often, children have been working for their families since the day they were born, with every moment of their lives documented and shared on their family’s monetised YouTube page or Instagram accounts. 

Some countries have, however, taken up the issue of online child exploitation with the European Union, for example, passing “the right to be forgotten” law, which allows anyone to request that their personal data be erased.

The state of Illinois in the USA recently drafted legislation to give children the right to be compensated by their parents for money earned through their social media presence.

France has also passed a law to protect influencers. The law gives them rights to the money they earn, which is to be placed in a special bank account until they are 16. It also requires permission from local authorities for children to work as influencers and gives them the right to be forgotten.

The French law is more than just protecting kidfluencers economically, it also concerns other forms of child exploitation, such as child sex abuse.

The politician behind the law, Bruno Studer, highlighted that 50% of children’s photos that are shared online by their parents end up on child sex abuse forums. [MM10] The new French law is the first to address these issues and protect children from online harm.

4. Child Abuse Concerns

There is a growing trend of parents disciplining or shaming their children online as a way to hold themselves up as good parents.

These parents employ violent disciplinary tactics which embarrass, hurt and harm their children with the long-term potential of psychological trauma and rupture to the parent-child relationship.  

Harsh discipline in itself accounts for a number of adverse outcomes for children, including juvenile delinquency and suicidality. Coupled with this type of discipline broadcast to the world, the implications for children’s mental health and well-being are far-reaching.

Additionally, there’s an aspect of some family blogs to prank their children; these pranks seem harmless and just for laughs, but some have bordered on child abuse, with many calling for the practice to stop.

While a prank on a child may seem harmless, parents need to know that they are inviting the world to laugh at their children.

Often, the children don’t find these pranks funny and are visibly distressed, which could lead to serious emotional harm. The latest example of this is the “egg challenge” on TikTok.

Furthermore, for older children, these can be embarrassing episodes seen by their friends that could lead to bullying in schools and cyberbullying.

5. Cyberbullying Concerns

Cyberbullying is a major concern for children and parents. Cyberbullying has a damaging and lasting impact on children’s mental health, including depression, anxiety, suicidality and death.

Research shows that the rate of cyberbullying is higher for children who are on social media. Oversharing children’s information, images and videos on social media can lead to them being the targets of cyberbullying, particularly from embarrassing information, photos and videos.

A study in the UK found that children were often embarrassed, annoyed and frustrated by their parents’ public sharing habit. It further noted that 71.3% of children aged 12-16 reported that their parents did not respect their online privacy, and 39.8% had experienced their parents sharing embarrassing photos of them (Siibak & Traks, 2019).

In the USA, data show that only 24% of parents asked their children for permission before sharing information about them on social media. Even when parents sought consent from children to post about them on social media, 32% of children reported that their parents still posted about them after they had declined their parents’ requests to post.

Anyone who has spent enough time on social media knows how merciless people can be with their thoughts and opinions, and children are not exempt from this type of trolling.

Many adults have spoken about the toll that negativity from social media has taken on them. Just imagine the type of damage this is doing to your child.

Sharing information, images and videos of your children online can be a way to keep distant family and friends updated on your children’s growth and development. However, you need to consider the risks of doing so.  Before you share, think about the potential dangers, your children’s privacy and the future consequences of each post.

Worried about cyberbullying or online safety?
Grab our free anti-bullying printables to start meaningful conversations and set clear boundaries with your kids.

Reference:

Siibak, A., & Traks, K. (2019). The dark sides of sharenting. doi: 10.1386/cjcs.11.1.115_1

The post What is Sharenting and Should You Stop Doing It? 5 Alarming Truths! appeared first on Childhood Central.

Are you dealing with 3-year-old temper tantrums?

If you have ever spent some time with toddlers, you know they are prone to temper tantrums. This could happen at any time and anywhere. The violent outburst of emotions and tears can seem like a volcanic eruption that was triggered by anything. So, what is the meaning of a temper tantrum? How do you prevent and handle it?

What is the meaning of a Temper Tantrum?

A temper tantrum is a sudden and unplanned outburst of anger or frustration. Tantrums can be emotional, physical, or verbal. They can happen at regular intervals during the day and last for a few seconds to up to two hours.

Temper tantrums are common in children, particularly toddlers, and are a normal part of children’s early childhood development.

So, while it might be a bit embarrassing and frustrating when your child has a meltdown in public, know that the tantrums won’t last. Your 3-year-old child is having an emotional moment that he/she can’t articulate, and the tantrum is a natural course in their development.

What causes a Temper Tantrum?

Tantrums occur because, generally, children do not yet possess the language skills to express their feelings and wants. Children act out what they cannot express or articulate in words. As children grow older, they become more aware of their environments, their likes and dislikes, and their sense of autonomy. As such, there is a gap between how children feel and what they can express during this stage of their development.  

Often, it can seem like a battle of wills between you and your child if they want to do something that they are not allowed to do. Particularly, if they are allowed to do or have something at the moment that they want. They may also become frustrated while trying to complete a task with skills that they have not yet mastered. Either way, there are plenty of causes for a tantrum. 

When are Tantrums Most Likely to Occur?

There are certainly some situations that are more likely to trigger a tantrum. As parents and carers, we need to pay attention to these and reduce them as much as possible. Children are most like to throw a tantrum when they are tired or are still upset about an earlier incident or event.

You can also download our free temper tantrum poster as a quick visual reminder of calming steps to use during toddler meltdowns.

Common Triggers for a Temper Tantrum

At home, in public or at school, a tantrum can be triggered by any or all of the following:

1. Bedtime
2. Mealtime/snack time
3. Bath time
4. When parents’ attention is diverted to another person or object
5. Children wanting to but not being allowed to play
6. Transitions from one task or activity to another

How to Prevent 3-year-old Temper Tantrums

1. Understanding Your Child

Whilst tantrums are a natural part of children’s development, it is also possible to reduce their frequency. Having a better understanding of your child is a good place to start. You know your child better than anyone else. So, you know what situations are likely to make them feel uncomfortable and their time limit for certain activities. Taking careful note of these situations and reducing them can be a great help in reducing your child’s tantrums.

2. Create Routines

Another practical strategy for preventing temper tantrums is to provide schedules and routines for children to follow. Children are more likely to cooperate when they know what changes to expect in their environment. Having routines gives children a sense of control over their environment.

3. Communicate Changes and Transitions

You can prevent meltdowns by alerting children to changes in their activities by using prompts and communicating during transitions. Before an activity changes, communicate this to the children by letting them know which activity will be starting next and how much time they will need to finish their current activity. By doing so, you are preparing your child for what comes next and reducing their frustration and the likelihood of a tantrum.

How to Handle 3-Year-Old Temper Tantrums?

Having a better understanding of what causes your 3-year-old’s temper tantrums and finding ways to prevent them will not eliminate the tantrums. Your child will still have the occasional meltdown. Luckily, with time and maturity, these meltdowns will be fewer and fewer. Until then, when your child has a tantrum here are the do’s and don’ts of handling it.

Do’s

Find a distraction – if you notice a temper coming on, you can find a distraction to divert your child’s attention from the source of frustration. Find something attractive, a fun activity or a song that will catch your child’s attention.

Ignore the behaviour – before you do this, if your child is at home, ensure that they are in a safe place within eye view and not in danger of hurting themselves. If you are in public, take them somewhere quiet and safe while you continue to ignore their behaviour.

Stay Calm – if you are calm during your child’s tantrum, this will help you to de-escalate the situation and give your child the space they need in this highly emotional state. In this situation, you are also modelling effective emotional regulation for your children.

Don’ts

Leave your child unattended or out of sight – while you are ignoring the behaviour, be sure that your child is in plain view and they are not doing anything or in danger of hurting themselves.

Reason with your child during a tantrum – it can be fruitless to try and reason with a child who is in a heightened state of emotion. You could be prolonging the tantrum.

Give in to their demands to stop the tantrum – if you give in to your child’s demands because they throw a tantrum, they will learn that their behaviour is an appropriate way of getting what they want.

When to Seek Help?

Your child’s temper tantrums will become fewer as they mature emotionally and develop their language skills. However, if their tantrums become worse, more frequent and more intense after 4 years old, you should speak to your child’s healthcare provider.

Resources

Source:

T. Steuart Watson; T. Watson; S. Gebhardt. (2010). Temper Tantrums: Guidelines for Parents and Teachers.

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Sharenting, a blend of “sharing” and “parenting,” refers to the practice where parents share content about their children on social media platforms. While it fosters community and connection, it also raises concerns about privacy and consent. With social media becoming an integral part of modern parenting, it’s crucial to understand the latest statistics on this phenomenon.

Prevalence of Sharenting

A 2021 survey revealed that over 75% of parents share information about their children online, with more than 80% using their child’s real name in posts. Alarmingly, less than 25% of these parents seek their child’s permission before posting, and approximately 29% never ask at all. Additionally, close to 25% have public settings on their social media profiles, and 80% have friends or followers they’ve never met in person.(Security.org)

Platforms and Content Shared

Facebook is the most frequently used platform for sharenting, accounting for 54% of such activities, followed by Instagram at 16% and X (formerly Twitter) at 12%. Parents often share photographs (85%), videos (8.9%), and personal information about their children, including names and locations. (Source)

Motivations Behind Sharenting

Parents engage in sharenting for various reasons, as outlined in research on the latest sharenting statistics:

• Recognition and Visibility: A study found that 32.8% of parents post about their children to gain recognition and become known on social media.
• Sharing and Connection: The most common reason, cited by 52.5% of parents, is simply to share their children’s lives with others.
• Parental Pride: Research highlights that many parents feel immense pride in their children’s achievements and use social media to showcase them. A mother in one study stated, “I am proud of my child, and I want to show this to the whole world.” (Source). One study showed that 40% of sharenting is a manifestation of parental pride (Source).
• Updating Family and Friends: Some parents, particularly those with relatives living far away, use social media to keep loved ones updated on their child’s development (Source).
• Promoting Their Children: Some parents actively share images and stories to promote their children, possibly for future opportunities or branding.
• Mommy Influencer: In one survey, 3% of parents say they engage in sharenting to earn an income (Source).

Risks Associated with Sharenting

While sharing can have positive aspects, it also poses significant risks:

• Identity Theft: It is not just researchers that are sharing worrying sharenting statistics. Barclays Bank in the UK forecast that two-thirds of young people will be the victim of identity fraud because of sharenting. According to the bank, online sharing by parents will produce 7.4 million incidents of identity fraud by 2030 (Source). Additionally, in the US, a report showed that 14% of children have had their identities stolen (Source).
• Misuse of Images: In one study, 66% of parents believe that sharenting can cause negligence or abuse of children or can result in images of children being used on inappropriate sites (Source).
• Emotional Distress: Studies show that 39% of teenagers feel embarrassed or frustrated by their parents’ online posts about them, leading to family conflicts (Source).

Balancing Sharing and Privacy

How can parents enjoy social media without compromising their children’s privacy? The following highlights some best practices:

Mindful Sharenting: Some parents are beginning to take a critical and self-reflective approach to sharenting by carefully considering the content they share and their potential audience in order to protect their child’s privacy. To prevent misuse of their children’s images, parents are now choosing to:

• Limit their sharenting audience by sharing content only with close family and friends.​
• Protect their children’s identity by not showing children’s faces and avoiding the use of real names or identifiable information.​
• Selective Sharing by choosing to share objects that belong to the children rather than the children themselves.​ (Source)

Conclusion

Sharenting is an ever-growing trend, offering both benefits and challenges. While it enables connection and support, parents must carefully consider the risks, according to these latest sharenting statistics, and take steps to protect their children’s privacy. By adopting mindful sharenting practices, parents can ensure their children’s well-being while still sharing meaningful moments with loved ones.

What do you think of these latest sharenting statistics? Should parents be more cautious about sharenting, or is it just a part of modern parenting? Let us know in the comments!

The post Key Sharenting Statistics Every Parent Should Know appeared first on Childhood Central.

The way we share our lives online has transformed parenting in the digital age. From adorable baby photos to milestone updates, sharing these precious moments is almost second nature. But have you ever stopped to think about how this could affect your child’s future? Sharenting—the act of sharing your child’s life on social media—is more than just a way to connect with friends and family. It creates a lasting digital footprint for your child, shaping their digital identity before they even understand what it means. This article delves into the concept of sharenting, its impact on a child’s digital footprint, and why mindful sharing is crucial in safeguarding your child’s future.

What is Sharenting?

Sharenting, a blend of “sharing” and “parenting,” is when parents or guardians post information, images, and videos of their children on social media and other online platforms. While sharing these moments can feel like a wonderful way to celebrate milestones or stay connected with loved ones, it’s essential to consider how this impacts a child’s digital identity and privacy.

What is Digital Identity?

Digital identity is the collection of data and information about an individual that exists online. This can include usernames, social media profiles, and any shared content. For children, their digital identity often begins with what their parents post before they’re old enough to create their own online presence.

What is Digital Footprint?

A digital footprint is the trail of information that individuals leave behind during their online activities. This includes social media posts, website visits, and shared content. A digital footprint can be accessed by advertisers, data brokers, and even cybercriminals, creating a lasting record that could have future implications for a person’s life.

How Does Sharenting Affect Your Child’s Digital Footprint?

1. Digital Footprint Before Birth

Sharenting often begins before a child is even born. Parents share ultrasound images, updates about pregnancy milestones, and even details of doctor visits on social media. These posts create a digital identity for the child long before their birth. From baby bump progress photos to detailed captions, this information allows anyone, including strangers, to follow the development of an unborn child.

2. Born and Bred on Social Media

By the time many children are a year old, they already have a digital presence, with research indicating that 92% of children have some form of online profile (source). Parents often share personal details such as the child’s full name, date of birth, and photos from the hospital. As children grow, parents frequently post updates, pictures, and videos documenting milestones. This accumulation of shared content contributes to an extensive digital profile. Unfortunately, the data shared by parents can be harvested by “dataveillance” firms and later sold to advertisers, employers, or even college admissions offices (source).

3. Sharenting Can Lead to Identity Fraud

Posting personal information about children increases their risk of identity theft. According to a forecast by Barclay’s Bank in the UK, sharenting could be responsible for two-thirds of identity fraud cases by 2030, costing approximately £667 million annually (source). Fraudsters can use publicly available details to open bank accounts, apply for loans, or commit other financial crimes in the child’s name.

4. Digital Kidnapping

Digital kidnapping occurs when someone uses a child’s photos without permission, often to create fake online personas. The ease with which photos and videos can be accessed online makes this a real concern. These stolen images can have severe psychological and legal consequences for the child and their family, potentially impacting the child’s sense of safety and privacy as they grow.

5. Sharenting, Digital Footprint, and Child Mental Health Concerns

The effects of sharenting on a child’s digital footprint can extend to their mental health. Sharing content that seems innocent—or even humorous—to a parent can be embarrassing for the child, both now and in the future. Viral trends, such as pranks on children, often involve posting videos that may humiliate or upset them. Furthermore, content shared by parents could be used by peers for bullying, causing emotional distress (source). Embarrassing or invasive posts can also harm a child’s self-esteem and emotional well-being, potentially leaving a lasting impact into adulthood.

Can a Digital Footprint Be Deleted?

Although it is possible to delete some content from the internet, completely erasing a digital footprint is challenging. Once something is shared online, it can be downloaded, archived, or reshared by others. To protect their child’s digital identity, parents should limit what they post, use strict privacy settings, and think twice before sharing sensitive details. As children grow older, involving them in decisions about what gets shared helps ensure their comfort and consent.

Conclusion

Sharenting might seem like a harmless way to celebrate your child’s milestones, but its impact on their digital footprint and future is significant. Parents must balance the joy of sharing these moments with the responsibility of safeguarding their child’s privacy, mental health, and security. By being thoughtful about what you post and taking proactive steps to protect your child’s digital identity, you can create a safer online world for them to grow up in.

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As parents, we all want our children to grow up healthy and happy. But with so many temptations around, from sugary snacks to screen time, it can be challenging to empower your kids to make healthy choices.

However, by providing the right guidance and resources, you can encourage healthy habits that will benefit them for a lifetime. Here are some tips and resources to empower your kids to make healthy choices.

1. Empower Kids to Build Leadership Capabilities

Empower kids to develop leadership skills can be instrumental in promoting healthy choices. When children feel empowered and valued, they are more likely to take ownership of their health and well-being. Encourage your child to participate in activities that promote teamwork, goal-setting, and self-confidence. For instance, enrolling your child in martial arts classes can help them learn confidence and discipline.

2. Reduce Screen Time and Promote Exercise

Harvard Medical School notes that too much screen time can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which can have detrimental effects on children’s health. Empower your kids to engage in physical activity instead. Consider setting a daily limit on screen time, such as one hour per day, and encourage your child to engage in outdoor activities like biking, swimming, or playing ball games. If your child is resistant to physical activity, try finding an activity they enjoy, such as dancing, martial arts, or yoga.

3. Prioritize Healthy Food Options

Healthy food options are crucial for children’s growth and development. Everyday Health points out that encouraging healthy eating habits can help prevent many diseases and promote better physical and mental health. By involving children in meal planning, grocery shopping, and gardening, you can empower kids to make healthy choices and appreciate the value of nutritious food.

4. Avoid Caffeine Overload

Many kids consume too much caffeine, which can have serious consequences on their physical health. Discuss the dangers of consuming too much caffeine with your children and explain why it’s essential to limit their intake. Make water an alternative to caffeinated and sugary beverages. There are many tricks to get your kids to drink more water, which will empower them to make better choices for quenching their thirst!

To see how much water your child should be drinking, click here.

5. Empower Kids to Experiment with Food

Encourage your children to try new foods by introducing them to a variety of healthy options. Explain the benefits of each food choice, such as how fruits and vegetables provide vital vitamins and nutrients for our bodies. Let your child make their own choices when it comes to their meals, and try not to force them to eat something they don’t like. Provide different options that they can choose from and let them decide what they would like to eat.

6. Join Each Other for Daily Walks

Daily walks with your kids offer significant health benefits, such as improving physical health. These walks also provide valuable bonding time and promote mental well-being by reducing stress and anxiety. Additionally, they instil healthy habits and encourage an active lifestyle from a young age.

7. Create a Regular Bedtime Schedule

Establishing a regular bedtime routine can be crucial for promoting healthy sleep habits. A consistent routine can help regulate your child’s circadian rhythm and improve the quality of their sleep. Consider creating a relaxing bedtime ritual, such as reading a book or taking a bath, to help your child wind down before bed.

8. Teach Kids About Healthy Choices

It’s important to discuss the importance of making healthy choices with your child in an age-appropriate manner. Explain how healthy choices can help their overall well-being, including their physical health, mental health, and academic performance. Empower kids to take ownership of their health and well-being and support them in making healthy choices.

When you empower kids to make healthy choices, it can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By reducing screen time, taking daily walks, building their leadership abilities, and more, you can set your child up for lifelong success. Remember to be patient and consistent, and encourage your child to take ownership of their health and well-being. With these tips and resources, you can help your child make healthy choices for a lifetime.

Guest Author: Anya Williams

Anya Willis is a mother of three and has been a yoga instructor for the past 12 years. For most of her childhood, Anya struggled with her weight. In school, she was bullied because of it, and it wasn’t until she took a yoga class in college that things started to change. She fell in love with how yoga used her whole body and mind. For Anya this was the catalyst she needed, she found a new interest in her physical health and started striving for a healthier life. Reflecting on her younger years, Anya became passionate about kids being active and healthy.

You can find out more about Anya here.

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