About this episode

In this episode, Kelly discusses how the concept of self-expression online is being exploited to the detriment of children's childhood.

The freedom of self-expression has become a catch-all justification for everything done online. Why should children be allowed to have social media at a young age? Because they need to express themselves! Mark Zuckerberg even used this justification of ‘self-expression’ under oath in the landmark social media addiction trial. In this episode, Kelly exposes how ‘self-expression’ has been hijacked to exploit children and steal childhood. What was once “play” is now “performance,” and what used to be “creativity” is now “content.” This is a foundational episode that helps parents understand the larger cultural narrative at play. Also, upcoming episodes build on this idea that ‘self-expression’ is a necessary part of childhood. Articles referenced: Different Creative Playgrounds: Use Social Media for Creative Development Kids Mental Health Foundation: Kids and Social Media What kids are actually doing on social media and why that matters How Online Communities Can Help Children The New Era of Self-Expression: How the next generation are tackling social media, creativity, and authenticity Social Media…

People in this episode

Host: Kelly

Topics covered

• self-expression
• social media
• childhood
• parenting
• mental health

Keywords

• social media addiction
• creativity
• content creation
• cultural narrative

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Different Creative Playgrounds: Use Social Media for Creative Development, Managing Media Creating Character, Brave Parenting Merch

More episodes of Brave Parenting

• Ep. 219: Is Education a “Benefit” of Smartphones for Kids? · April 22, 2026 · 35 min
• Ep. 218: Is Documentation a “Benefit” of Smartphones for Kids? · April 15, 2026 · 44 min
• Ep. 217: Is Navigation a “Benefit” of Smartphones for Kids? · April 8, 2026 · 28 min
• Ep. 216: Is Outdoor Safety a “Benefit” of Smartphones for Kids? · April 1, 2026 · 24 min
• “Moral Panic” Over Social Media Just Became Moral Accountability · March 29, 2026 · 7 min
• Ep. 215: Are the “Benefits” for Kids Having Smartphones Really Beneficial? · March 26, 2026 · 50 min

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