Sharenting or Parenting? Project: Raising Awareness for the Protection of Children's Rights in the Digital World

The “Sharenting or Parenting?” Erasmus+ Mobility of Youth Workers project was held in Budapest, Hungary, between 9 and 15 December 2024 under the reference number 2024-1-HU01-KA153-YOU-000198459 and hosted by Kicsi Szívek Egyesülete. Bringing together youth workers from Hungary, Italy, Portugal, Romania, Türkiye. The project focused on the impact of parents’ social media sharing about their children on children's rights, privacy, and digital safety.

During the educational seminars organized within the project, participants explored the concept of children’s digital footprints in depth. Through case studies and audiovisual materials, they discussed how social media posts can leave long-term effects on children's future lives, increase the risk of online exploitation, and influence the psychological development of children through the creation of digital identities. The topic of online child abuse was also examined, highlighting how seemingly harmless posts can sometimes lead to violations of children's rights.

To transform theoretical knowledge into practical experience, participants worked in groups during the “Over-Sharenting Hunt” activity. Examples of excessive sharing on social media platforms were analyzed to identify content that could pose risks to children's rights. Based on their findings, participants developed public service announcement scenarios and produced awareness-raising videos. This process enabled youth workers to strengthen their critical thinking skills while discovering new approaches to the responsible use of digital tools.

Throughout the project, evaluation activities allowed participants to reflect on their learning through mind-mapping techniques. In addition, cultural sharing activities provided opportunities for participants from different countries to introduce their languages, traditions, music, and local cuisine, fostering intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding. These activities contributed to stronger partnerships and encouraged the exchange of diverse perspectives among participants.

In the final stage of the project, participants took part in the Youthpass evaluation process, reflecting on their personal and professional achievements and completing their certificates. They also visited some of Budapest’s most popular cultural and historical attractions featured on social media, gaining first-hand insight into the influence of social media on tourism. Visits to locations such as Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, Szimpla Kert, and Karavan further enriched their cultural learning experience. The project concluded with a certificate ceremony and farewell event, leaving participants better equipped to promote children's rights, digital privacy, and responsible social media practices in their communities.