Back-to-school season is full of excitement, fresh routines, and those adorable first-day photos. Parents love capturing the moment, and it’s a fun way to share milestones with family and friends. In today’s digital world, though, it’s important to think about how to share safely.
With just a few thoughtful choices, you can protect your child’s privacy and still celebrate in style. Here are six easy tips to keep your back-to-school posts fun, simple, and safe.
1. Keep It Simple
Sharing your child’s first name and grade is more than enough. Try to avoid including last names, school names, teacher names, or future career goals. These extra details may seem harmless, but they can reveal more than intended.
A little less information goes a long way in keeping your child’s online presence safe.
2. Choose Backgrounds Carefully
Before posting, take a look at what’s in the background of your photo. Try to avoid things like house numbers, street signs, license plates, or even school buses. These small details can make it easier for someone to figure out where you live or where your child goes to school.
A simple background like a front door, a chalkboard sign, or a garden makes for a great photo that keeps your location private.
3. Check Privacy Settings
It’s a great time to review your social media privacy settings. Make sure your posts are only visible to people you trust. Turn off location tagging and consider sharing your photos after school hours rather than in real time.
Even with privacy settings in place, remember that anything online can be copied or shared, so post with care.
4. Talk With Your Child
Help your child understand why privacy matters online. This is a great opportunity to talk about how to share safely and what types of information should stay private. Encourage them to think before they post, just like you do.
These early conversations can build good habits that last well into the teen years and beyond.
For additional support, the Connecticut State Department of Children and Families offers helpful resources to guide families in discussing internet safety—from understanding app risks to recognizing red flags.
5. Involve Family and Friends
Sometimes, well-meaning relatives are excited to share your child’s big day too. Take a moment to remind grandparents, aunts, uncles, and close friends to follow the same safety tips. Encourage them to avoid sharing specific details or public posts.
A quick message or friendly reminder can help everyone stay on the same page.
6. Use Resources You Can Trust
Safe Kids Connecticut is a helpful resource for parents who want to keep kids safe in all areas of life. While they focus mainly on physical safety, the principles they share apply to online safety too. When families combine digital awareness with trusted safety practices, kids are better protected in every space they move through.
Celebrate With Confidence
Back-to-school photos are a beautiful tradition. By being thoughtful about what and how you share, you can enjoy the moment, connect with loved ones, and keep your child’s information protected.
Looking for more family safety tips? Visit Safe Kids Connecticut, a program led by Connecticut Children’s Injury Prevention Center, for helpful resources and ideas to keep kids safe at every stage.