Schroeder Says Sharing Her Kids Is a ‘Personal Choice’
Reality TV star Stassi Schroeder has made it clear she’s comfortable sharing her children with the public, but her decision is also reigniting a debate many modern parents face: how much of a child’s life belongs online? While posting family milestones can feel harmless, child development experts say parents should think carefully before creating a permanent digital footprint for their kids.
In an interview with Good Housekeeping, Schroeder explained why she has chosen to include her children, daughter Hartford and son Messer, in her public life and reality television appearances. She said that because being on camera is part of her family’s everyday life, it felt natural to include them rather than hide such a significant part of who she is. Schroeder also emphasized that she and her husband make decisions with their children’s well-being in mind, saying they are “very protective” of them while balancing life in the public eye.
Her decision reflects a dilemma facing countless parents. Sharing photos can help families stay connected and celebrate milestones, but experts say every post contributes to a child’s digital identity long before they are old enough to consent.
‘Sharenting’ Has Become the New Normal
The practice of parents sharing photos, videos, and personal information about their children online has become so common that it has its own name: sharenting. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), parents should consider whether a child would be comfortable with a post in the future and avoid sharing identifying details such as locations, school uniforms, or embarrassing moments. As the AAP advises, “Ask yourself if your child would agree to this post if they were old enough to decide.”
Research published in Children and Youth Services Review found that sharenting has become widespread across social media, with many parents regularly documenting their children’s lives online despite growing concerns about privacy and long-term consequences. The researchers note that increased awareness has prompted calls for parents to balance sharing with protecting children’s autonomy and digital rights.
A Digital Footprint That Lasts a Lifetime
Experts warn that once a child’s information is online, it can be difficult—or impossible—to remove. Oversharing can expose children to privacy breaches, identity theft, unwanted facial recognition databases, and future embarrassment as they grow older. The organization encourages parents to regularly review privacy settings, ask older children for permission before posting, and think carefully about whether a moment truly needs to be shared publicly.
For many families, sharing a few treasured memories online may never become a problem. But experts agree that taking a more thoughtful approach today can help ensure children have greater control over their own stories tomorrow.
