The sharing of children’s data on social media should prioritise children’s data privacy and empower their right to have a say about how their digital data is shared. This paper presents a collective stance from researchers and industry bodies on the responsible and respectful use of children’s digital data in social media and online communications within education settings in Australia. 

Children’s data (their information, image, video, etc.) is a primary consideration in schools’ use of social media. As digital platforms become increasingly embedded in educational practice, schools and institutions must navigate complex responsibilities around children’s data privacy, digital rights and online representation. 

Drawing on current research and professional expertise, the paper presents principles that have been developed to advocate for a shared understanding of the key issues regarding the sharing of children’s data on social media and the implications for children and their families. The principles aim to be applicable across different stakeholder groups to establish clear, informed procedures and strategies that guide responsible and respectful social media sharing.

Principles

1. Model responsible and respectful social media use 
2. Prioritise intentional social media use balanced with other communications 
3. Openly communicate and obtain consent from all involved 
4. Minimise personal information when sharing on social media 
5. Plan for the life cycle of data generated for social media