Should we be posting our kids online?

In this thought-provoking episode of Let’s Reconnect, psychologist and parent Breanna Jayne Sada explores one of the biggest modern parenting dilemmas: should we be posting photos and videos of our children online?From birth announcements and first-day-of-school photos to viral family content and AI-generated risks, this episode dives into the hidden impact of growing up online. Breanna unpacks how social media, technology and rapidly advancing artificial intelligence are changing childhood, privacy and parenting forever.This episode is not about shaming parents. It’s about helping families, schools, sporting organisations and communities become more intentional and informed about what we share online and why.In This EpisodeWhy parents naturally want to share photos and milestones onlineThe psychological need for connection and validation through social mediaHow children are developing digital footprints before they can consentThe impact of AI and facial recognition technology on children’s privacyWhy posting online in 2026 is different to even five years agoThe rise of family influencers and children being monetised onlineConcerns around consent, dignity and children’s autonomyThe psychological impact of growing up constantly photographed and observedWhy schools, sporting clubs and organisations also need to rethink online postingPractical reflective questions every parent should ask before posting a child onlineKey Topics DiscussedChildren & Digital FootprintsToday’s children are the first generation growing up with an online identity created before they can fully understand privacy, consent or long-term consequences.AI & Online Safety RisksBreanna discusses how AI technology can now manipulate images, use facial recognition and even extract personal information from online photos, significantly changing the risks of sharing children’s images online.Consent & Respecting PrivacyThis episode explores how parents can begin age-appropriate conversations about consent, privacy and social media with children and teens.The Psychological Impact of Growing Up OnlineWhat happens when children realise their vulnerable or embarrassing moments have been shared publicly online? Breanna reflects on how social media may influence identity formation, self-worth and validation.Family Influencers & Monetising ChildhoodBreanna discusses themes explored in Like, Follow, Subscribe by Fortesa Latifi, including concerns raised by children who grew up in family vlogging and influencer environments.Questions for Parents to Reflect OnWould my child be comfortable with this photo being online as an adult?Am I sharing this for connection or external validation?Have I considered my child’s dignity and privacy?Could this moment stay within family or close friends instead?Have I asked for my child’s consent where appropriate?Am I teaching my child that every moment needs to be documented?Resources & SupportIf this episode brought up concerns for you or someone you care about, support is available:Lifeline Australia — 13 11 14Kids Helpline — 1800 55 1800In an emergency, call 000About the PodcastLet’s Reconnect with Breanna Jayne Sada is a parenting and mental health podcast helping adults better understand children, teenagers and family relationships through practical, evidence-based conversations.Hosted by Breanna Jayne Sada, episodes explore youth mental health, parenting, technology, relationships, emotional wellbeing and modern family life.Let's Reconnect next episode. In the meantime, subscribe and follow our podcast and socials @breanna.jayne_psych @letsreconnect_pod. If you or your child would like to write in with a question or story, or you’d like to be a guest advocating for the needs of children and young people, please reach out.Disclaimer:The information in this podcast is general and not a substitute for individual clinical advice or treatment. While I am a registered psychologist, I am not providing personalised guidance here. Every child and family is different, and what’s discussed may not suit your situation.If you have concerns, please seek support from a qualified mental health professional. For immediate help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, or call 000 in an emergency.Views expressed are my own and not those of any organisations I am associated with. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.