Privacy Parenting

When I was a little girl my mom used to read me a book called Beth's Big Day.  It was a children's book (that I still have, all beat up and worn with love!) about a little girl named Beth's birthday.  One thing that stands out to me in this book was the way that Beth treated something special.  In the beginning of this story, she started her birthday morning very excited but she did not want to wear a fancy dress because she did not want anyone to get "suspicious".  Thinking back now, I think, "What a great lesson!"  She was keeping her special day to herself and did not need any recognition!

Today, we live in a world where, in an instant, we can share our joys, thoughts, and/or ideas with all our "friends" by pressing a few buttons.  Of course, as a blogger, I constantly struggle with this concept...how much to share? How often and when is the right time?  (I am sure there is a Dummies guide to Social Networking that I probably should read!!)  In reality, I don't think there's needs to be a guide about what to say or how to do social networking.  Perhaps it's as easy as "keeping it simple".  Picture yourself on a stage in front of a huge audience announcing what it is you are about to type in your facebook status or twitter feed.  Most of the time, it's probably best to zip your lip and keep that special information as a treasure for yourself. 

So, how can we teach this important lesson to our children?  The easiest way is to fuel your children with positive statements and encourage self confidence.  Having good self esteem will enable them to feel that they, themselves, are the most important person to please.  In a addition, being a good role model ourselves and knowing when to keep things private is a great thing!

Let's face it, in this day in age, privacy can be a difficult thing to achieve.  While sharing information on social media outlets can be a great tool trade information, sharing personal information is something to be done with special consideration.  Bottom line, sharing the joy (or sorrow) of a special moment can be a great thing, but the true joy is what you feel on the inside.  Keeping a secret often allows you to TRULY feel the joy and pride accompanied by a good choice you made and reminds you of who your real best friend is, yourself!