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Think Twice Before Sharing That Photo: How Malaysian Parents Are Protecting Their Kids Online
Eisya Ereena
January 03, 2025
4 min
The topic of 'sharenting' isn’t new.
It’s been debated countless times before.
Yet, in today’s hyper connected digital age, its importance has only grown, making it a conversation worth revisiting.
From a baby’s first steps to their super cute super messy 1st smash cake birthday moments, sharing milestones online has become second nature for many parents (yes, myself included).
It’s a way to connect, celebrate, and treasure precious memories.
But in this digital age, where information travels faster than ever, the line between sharing and oversharing can blur and that’s where the challenge lies.
The Unavoidable Era of Sharenting
It’s almost unavoidable.
Whether you’re a parent who loves sharing daily snapshots or someone who occasionally posts about your child’s milestones, social media has become a digital scrapbook for many families, a space to celebrate memories and stay connected with loved ones, especially those far away.
However, in Malaysia, an increasing number of parents are rethinking their approach to sharing.
Concerns about privacy, safety, and cultural sensitivities are leading to more intentional practices.
From blurring children’s faces to posting only partial glimpses like little hands holding a toy or a candid shot from behind, parents are finding creative ways to preserve their child’s privacy.
Some content creators even opt for completely faceless accounts to curate their content.
This isn’t just a passing trend,
It’s a conscious effort to safeguard children’s digital identities in a world that’s becoming more connected every day.Why Are Parents Becoming More Cautious?
- Digital Security Concerns: The internet is an endless pit hole of unpredictability. Parents are increasingly worried about their child’s images being misused, whether through identity theft, unauthorised use in advertisements, or falling into the wrong hands.
- Privacy Awareness: As social media platforms evolve, so does awareness about privacy. Parents are recognising that what they post today could have implications for their child’s future, from school applications to professional careers. Nobody wants their child’s embarrassing bathtub photo resurfacing years later.
- Cultural Sensitivities: In Malaysia’s multicultural society, the way we approach privacy can differ, but a shared emphasis on modesty and respect plays a significant role. This cultural perspective influences decisions like blurring faces or avoiding sharing too much personal information about children.
- Protecting Autonomy: Children are now treated as individuals with their own rights, including the right to decide how they’re represented online. Some parents are holding back on sharenting to let their kids grow up and make those decisions themselves.
Navigating the Balance: Sharing Responsibly
So how do we, as parents, strike a balance?
How can we share moments without compromising our children’s safety or privacy?
Here are a few practical tips to navigate sharenting in the digital age:- Think Before You Post: Ask yourself a few key questions: Does this post reveal too much? Could this embarrass my child in the future? Am I oversharing personal details? Taking a moment to pause and reflect can make all the difference.
- Limit Identifiable Details: Avoid posting information that could identify your child’s current location or daily routine. For instance, skip tagging their school or sharing photos in recognisable uniforms.
- Blur Faces or Share Partial Shots: If you’re keen to share a moment, consider showing only hands, feet, or the back of your child’s head. This will still let you share the essence of the moment while safeguarding their identity.
- Check Privacy Settings: Ensure your social media accounts are set to private and only trusted friends and family can see your posts. Regularly review your follower list to ensure it’s up to date.
- Have Open Conversations: As your child grows, involve them in the decision making process. Ask if they’re comfortable with you sharing a photo or story about them. This helps them understand their rights to privacy early on.
- Create a Family Album: Instead of sharing every moment online, consider creating a private digital archive or photo album. This allows you to document your child’s milestones without exposing them to the public eye.
Protecting Our Children: A Shared Responsibility
Ultimately, sharenting isn’t just about what parents choose to share.
It’s a collective responsibility that extends to caregivers, relatives and friends.
As we step into 2025 and embrace a more advanced age of technology, it’s important to remember that while sharing adorable moments online can be heartwarming, we must tread carefully, especially when it involves children who aren’t ours.
Before snapping a photo or uploading it to social media, always seek permission from the child’s parents or guardians.
More importantly, avoid sharing images of children publicly without explicit consent.
While we may enjoy sharing updates of our children, not everyone is comfortable with their child’s photos circulating online.
Respecting each other’s boundaries and preferences when it comes to sharing online is crucial as parents.
Let's take care of our kids together, parents!
Happy New Year 2025 with love from Motherhood, mummies and daddies!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!
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The Hidden Danger: How to Spot Red Flags in Trusted Adults Around Your Children
Eisya Ereena
December 27, 2024
4 min
You know those moments when your little one is running around in endless circles, giggling away, and your heart feels like it could burst with love?
But then, a notification pops up, and suddenly you’re reading yet another horrifying news story about a child being hurt or abused.
Before you know it, your mind spirals: What if it happened to my child? How would I cope?
As a work-from-home mummy, these thoughts creep in more often than I’d like to admit, especially on days when deadlines pile up, and I feel like I haven’t spent enough time with my kids.
And, of course, there’s always the lingering questions: Should I send them to a care centre? Would they be safe there?
But deep down, I know one thing for certain: there’s nothing more precious or sacred than my children’s safety.
Knowing I can protect them while being physically present gives me peace of mind.
So, here I am, typing this out while my little ones are just a room away—and the thought of leaving them somewhere else feels unsettling.
That said, I also know that not every family has the same circumstances.
Being able to work from home and keep an eye on my kids is a privilege I don’t take for granted.
For some families, the 'village' that helps raise a child includes teachers, caregivers, and trusted friends.
And most of the time, these amazing people step up, nurturing and guiding our kids as if they were their own.
But then, those distressing news stories remind us of a hard truth: not everyone is who they seem to be.
And as parents, it’s on us to strike a balance between trusting others and staying vigilant.
It’s not about living in fear but about creating an environment where our kids feel safe, heard, and loved.
For all of us navigating parenting, let’s talk about how we can recognise red flags in trusted adults, build open communication with our kids, and stay proactive about their safety, because every child deserves that.When Trust Is Betrayed
The hard truth is that even those we rely on to guide and nurture our children, like teachers, therapists, or coaches can sometimes misuse their authority and harm the very kids they’re meant to protect.
This isn’t an issue unique to Malaysia.
It’s a heartbreaking reality across the globe, with far too many stories of abuse by trusted adults making headlines.
The key takeaway here isn’t to instil fear but to encourage vigilance.Teaching Awareness, Not Fear
Our goal as parents isn’t to make our children mistrustful of everyone.
We instead should equip them with the tools they need to recognise and respond to unsafe situations.
Start by introducing body autonomy concepts early, using simple, age-appropriate language.
Let your child know that their body belongs to them and that it’s always okay to tell you if someone makes them feel uneasy or uncomfortable.
For younger kids, teaching ideas like 'safe touch' and 'unsafe touch' can help build a foundation.
As they grow, these lessons can expand into more complex discussions about personal boundaries, consent, and the importance of speaking up.
Empowering our kids with knowledge, while fostering open communication, is how we guide them to navigate the world with confidence and safety.Recognising Red Flags in Adults
Most predators don’t act like the stereotypical villains we see in movies.
They’re often charming, friendly, and eager to gain your trust.
Here are some behaviours to watch out for:- Excessive Attention: If an adult is overly focused on your child, constantly offering gifts or wanting to spend time alone with them, it’s worth paying closer attention.
- Boundary Pushing: Someone who disregards your family’s rules or boundaries, like as simple as making inappropriate jokes can be a red flag.
- Secrecy: If an adult encourages your child to keep secrets, it’s a warning sign. Open communication between parent and child is key to catching this early.
However, there may be instances where there are no red flags.
This is when its most important to establish a system where our children trust us to protect them.Open Channels of Communication
One of the best ways to protect your child is by fostering an environment where they feel comfortable sharing anything with you.
It’s important not to give the impression, even unintentionally, that your work or other commitments take precedence over their wellbeing.
If possible, try and avoid framing your child's time at a daycare or with caregivers as something you rely on for your convenience.
Instead, emphasise that their experiences matter deeply to you.
Make it clear that their safety, happiness, and emotional wellbeing are always your priority and ask open ended questions like, “How was your day?” or “Did anything make you feel upset or uneasy?”
Note to self: As parents, our reactions are just as important.
If your child confides in you, remain calm and supportive, even if the topic is upsetting.
Your response sets the tone for whether they’ll come to you again in the future.Trust and Verify
It’s easy to assume that institutions like hospital, clinics, schools, daycare centres, or extracurricular clubs have rigorous systems in place to vet employees.
While most do, it’s still important to do your own due diligence.- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask about background checks, training programmes, and how the organisation handles complaints.
- Stay Involved: Be present in your child’s life. Attend school events, get to know their teachers, and establish relationships with other parents.
- Monitor Changes: If your child’s behaviour shifts dramatically - becoming withdrawn, anxious, or fearful, it could be a sign that something’s wrong.
Protecting Their Childhood without Smothering It
The balance between vigilance and trust is a delicate one.
We want our children to experience the world, build relationships, and grow into confident adults.
But we also have a responsibility to safeguard their innocence.
Empowering them with the knowledge to recognise inappropriate behaviour is key.
Last but not least, as a parent myself, I know how easy it is to get swept up in worry.
But our role isn’t to shield them from every potential danger.
It’s to prepare them to navigate the world safely and confidently.
By staying informed and proactive, we can create a safer environment for our little ones to thrive.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!
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When Is the Right Time for Your Child’s First Smartphone?
Eisya Ereena
December 28, 2024
5 min
A couple of weeks ago, my five-year-old came home from a movie night with his friends, his face lit up with excitement and curiosity.
'Mummy', he began, scrunching up his nose and frowning trying to put his words and thoughts together,
'Did you know my school friend has a phone? He is a little bit younger than me, so when will I get one?'
Now, as a parent of two, one about to turn six and the other just two, this isn’t the first time I’ve been confronted with questions about technology.
I mean, it’s 2024, and screens are pretty much everywhere.
But hearing it from my eldest made it feel suddenly real.
The prospect of him owning a phone sent me spiralling into a rabbit hole of parental dilemmas: Is six too young? What about emergencies? What if he’s left out because everyone else in his class has one?
It’s a lot, isn’t it?
In fact, a lot of conversations I've had with fellow parents recently have been about the right amount of exposure our children should have to technology and everything it entails.
So, since no stone will be left unturned in our journey through motherhood, let’s unpack this together, parent-to-parent.
And try to make sense of when and how to introduce our little ones to the world of smart devices.When Is the Right Age?
If you’re looking for a definitive answer, you’re out of luck.
There’s no one size fits all when it comes to parenting, let alone technology.
Even tech titans have wrestled with these questions.
Did you know Bill Gates didn’t allow his kids to have mobile phones until they turned 14?
He believed delaying their exposure to smart devices gave them time to focus on other important aspects of childhood.
Similarly, Steve Jobs was known for limiting his kids’ screen time.
And yet, the reality today is different.
According to a study by Common Sense Media, 53% of children in the United States own a smartphone by the time they’re 11, and over a third have one by age 12.
These numbers are expected to trend even younger in the coming years.
For younger children, tablets can be a good first step into the tech world.
They’re more controlled with limited functionality compared to smartphones, and can be used under strict supervision.
My almost six-year-old, for instance, has a tablet we use together to explore educational apps and storybooks - emphasis on together because, let’s face it, the temptation for children to swipe over to YouTube is real.
But here’s the kicker: readiness isn’t just about age.
It’s about maturity, responsibility, and how much your child understands about boundaries.
For example, does your child already grasp the concept of rules - like not eating too many sweets before dinner (okay, we’re still working on that one)?
If so, they might be ready for a trial run with technology.Smart Rules for Smart Devices
When we finally decide to hand over that shiny gadget, it’s not just about setting a passcode and hoping for the best.
Setting clear rules and boundaries is key.
For instance, when my eldest does eventually get his emergency phone (probably not before his next birthday, no matter how much he bargains), there’ll be some non-negotiables such as:- Screen-Free Zones: No phones at the dinner table or during bedtime. This maintains family bonding time and encourages better sleep habits.
- Time Limits: Whether it’s gaming, chatting, or watching Transformers, too much screen time can overwhelm little minds. Apps like Screen Time for Apple or Google Family Link for Android are great tools to monitor and set daily limits.
- Open Conversations: I’ve already started talking to my eldest about the potential problems like sharing personal information online in ways he can understand.
Benefits of Introducing Technology
Okay, now that I’ve played the police parent card, let’s flip the coin.
We know that technology isn’t the enemy and introducing it in a controlled way can actually benefit our kids.
In fact, with technology is how I am here reaching out to thousands of parents within the space of my own home watching over my boys.
First, there’s the obvious: communication.
A phone can provide peace of mind, especially when they start venturing out for extracurricular activities or playdates.
Knowing my son could call me if he feels uneasy? I would really appreciate that.
Then, there’s the educational aspect.
I’ve seen first-hand how interactive learning apps make my eldest light up when he figures out a tricky crossword problem or learns a fun fact about dinosaurs.
And let’s not forget digital literacy.
In today’s world, being tech-savvy is almost as important as learning to read or write.Peer Pressure
Remember when we were kids, and everyone just had to have the coolest pencil case or that one pair of shoes?
Well, it’s the same with gadgets now.
As much as we want to raise resilient, non-conforming little humans, the reality is that feeling left out can affect their confidence.
That’s why I’m leaning towards starting small.
A basic phone for emergencies feels like a good compromise for my son when he reaches that milestone.
That way, he’s not entirely out of the loop but we’re still keeping things age-appropriate.Finding Balance
As parents, we’re constantly being pulled in multiple directions.
We want to shield our kids from the world but also prepare them for it.
Introducing smart devices is just another balancing act.
We want our children to be resilient; to understand that a little pressure like figuring out a school project deadline or learning to share can help them grow.
But we also want them to feel happy, confident, and most importantly, secure.
While navigating through this topic of technology, I'm determined to find the sweet spot where technology becomes a tool for them to grow and explore the vast world around them.
A way to connect, learn and grow without losing sight of what matters most: real-world relationships, creativity, and family time.
So, will my soon-to-be six-year-old (as he likes to call himself) get a phone tomorrow? Probably not.
But when the time does come, we’ll step into this new chapter with open communication, clear boundaries, and a whole lot of learning along the way.
Because at the end of the day, parenting isn’t about getting it perfect.
It’s about growing, together - finding the balance between what works for each family dynamics and each family member.
What about you, my fellow mummies?
When will you introduce technology to your precious children?
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!
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The Art of Simple Celebrations: Real Parent Tips for Memorable Moments
Eisya Ereena
December 20, 2024
4 min
In today’s world of Instagram-perfect vacations, it’s easy for parents to feel the pressure to go big during the holidays.
But the truth is, meaningful memories aren’t about how much you spend.
They’re about the love, laughter, and connection you share with your kids.
To prove it, we asked real parents to share their favorite holiday traditions that don’t come with a hefty price tag.
Spoiler: These ideas are not only budget-friendly but also heartwarming and oh-so-special!Decorating the House and DIY Traditions
Lavinia, a mother of one, has a tradition that’s become a family favourite.
Every year, her son eagerly helps with decorating the Christmas tree and their home.
She shares, 'Last year, we started involving him in the process. This year, even though I was a bit tired to set up the tree early, he was so excited that we still made it happen by the last week of November.'
To add a personal touch to the holidays, Lavinia gets crafty with her son.
They create handmade decorations and gifts, such as framed craft pieces featuring her son’s art.
These gifts, paired with a photo of her son and his grandparents or godparents, become cherished keepsakes.
Another cherished activity?
Baking cookies together - although this year, Lavinia’s oven decided to take a holiday too!
Despite the hiccup, she finds ways to keep the festive spirit alive.
And it’s not just about staying home.
Lavinia’s family loves driving around to see Christmas lights at night. 'We avoid the mall crowds with fake snow and stick to quieter spots,' she explains.
They also have a yearly tradition of taking a family photo with Santa to create personalised holiday cards.
'Nothing fancy,' she says. 'I just use Canva to design it.'Small Adventures and Big Connections
For Vanitha, a mother of one, holidays are about turning everyday outings into magical adventures.
'Dhanesh and I believe that a day out is an adventure by itself,' she says.
Their activities range from exploring Selangor Pewter to visiting her son’s favourite music store.
'He loves trying new guitars,' she shares.
Afterward, they indulge in cake and coffee together.
Vanitha also enjoys arts and crafts with her nieces and son.
From making cards and wrapping presents to cuddling up for a movie night, she focuses on bonding moments.
'Sometimes it’s just snuggles on the couch with a good movie,' she says.
'And when Dhanesh and I want a little foodie adventure, we explore local cuisines or the latest cafe trends.'Slowing Down to Truly Connect
Alia, a mother of three, sees the holidays as a chance to reconnect with her children.
'Our days are usually packed with work, school, and activities. The holidays give me the chance to learn more about what they love,' she says.
Alia lets her children choose what they want to do, whether it’s baking, crafting, or simply playing games.
For her, the joy lies in slowing down and savouring their company without the usual hustle and bustle.Cosy Movie Marathons
For Liana and her teenage daughter, the holidays are about keeping things low key and cosy.
'It may not sound luxurious, but we spend time catching up on our favorite shows and Christmas movies,' she says.
Their annual tradition involves transforming the living room into a festive haven, complete with snacks and a sofa bed for an epic TV binge session.
'Sometimes we even fall asleep in front of the TV', Liana shares. 'It’s become our special ritual to end the year on a relaxed and happy note.'Reflecting and Growing Together
Aishah, a mother of four, has created a meaningful year-end tradition that centers on reflection and growth.
'Something I’ve done with all my kids is to check up on them periodically throughout the year - not just a casual "How are you?" but deeper questions like "What made you happy?" or "What upset you?"’ she shares.
But specifically when the holidays are here, they dive deeper and her family comes together to look back on their experiences.
'My eldest is 20, followed by my 16, 13, and 10. Even when they were little, they loved this tradition. Over time, it’s become a moment they cherish.'
This reflective practice also includes conversations about personal growth.
'We ask how we can be better parents and how they feel they could improve as friends or siblings.
Why year end? It’s a quiet period that allows us all to reflect and prepare for the new school year or term at university.'
Of course, that’s not all they do.
Aishah adds, 'During the year end, we gather all the kids and play fun games, make dinner together - something that takes a bit more effort and time and trial new recipes. We also update their rooms if their tastes have changed.
It’s a period where we do anything and everything, as long as we’re together.'Memorable Moments: Making It Your Own
Parents, the beauty of these stories is the reminder that holidays are what you make of them.
Whether it’s a quiet movie night, a baking session gone wrong, or a simple family outing, the magic lies in the moments you share.
Lavinia sums it up perfectly: 'It’s not about how much you spend; it’s about spending time together.'
So, let’s take the pressure off this holiday season.
Embrace the little things, and remember that the best memories come from the heart, not the wallet.
What traditions will you start this year?
Wishing you and yours a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays with love from Motherhood!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!
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Managing Sarcopenia: The Hidden Risk in Ageing
Eisya Ereena
December 18, 2024
3 min
As we add more candles to our birthday cakes, our bodies start throwing us some curveballs.
Hello, hormonal changes and that 'older and wiser' mantra many seem to love throwing around.
But one sneaky little guest often skips the spotlight: Sarcopenia.
In simple terms, Sarcopenia is the slow and steady shrinking of your muscle mass and strength - kind of like your muscles deciding they’re ready for semi-retirement.
According to health experts, this condition begins as early as our 30's, with muscle mass declining by 3-8% every decade thereafter.
For Malaysians, the statistics are alarming: 1 in 3 individuals faces this issue, making Sarcopenia an emerging public health concern.What Exactly is Sarcopenia?
Sarcopenia might sound like a fancy medical term, but it’s a condition that can have a profound impact on daily life.
Simple tasks like climbing stairs or carrying groceries can become noticeably harder as muscle loss creeps in.
And it’s not just about the physical challenges.
Sarcopenia can also take an emotional toll, especially for caregivers juggling their own wellbeing while supporting ageing parents and young children.
And the effects go beyond just weaker muscles.
Sarcopenia increases the risk of falls and fractures due to reduced strength and stability, often threatening a person’s independence as they age.
This gradual loss of muscle mass doesn’t happen overnight.
It’s a slow process that accelerates with age, particularly for those with sedentary lifestyles or poor nutrition.
By the time someone reaches their 70s or 80s, the cumulative effects can lead to significant limitations in mobility and overall function.Experts Weigh In On Preventing Sarcopenia: Small Changes, Big Impact
The good news?
Sarcopenia isn’t inevitable.
A combination of regular exercise and a diet rich in protein and calcium can go a long way in maintaining muscle health.
Specialising in Rehabilitation Medicine in ReGen Rehab Hospital, expert Prof Datin Dr Lydia Abdul Latiff places a strong emphasis on the importance of incorporating nutrient rich fortified milk into your daily routine which works to boost protein intake.
Prof Lydia explains that sufficient protein intake is essential for muscle repair and growth, and fortified milk offers a convenient, nutrient-packed solution to address this need.On the other hand, Dr Ramani A/P Arumugam, Consultant Geriatrician and Physician at ReGen Rehab Hospital further adds that prevention is possible with small but consistent changes.
'Eating a healthy diet rich in protein, calcium and vitamin D along with regular exercise, can make a big difference,' she explains.
To gain further insights into the role of nutrition and exercise in combating Sarcopenia, watch our video featuring these experts below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVVjGtxvXZ0Marigold HL SuperMilk®: A Simple Solution
Marigold HL SuperMilk® is a game-changer in this fight against Sarcopenia.
Fortified with 31% more protein and 38% more calcium compared to ordinary milk, Marigold HL SuperMilk® provides essential nutrients to build and maintain muscle mass.
Two glasses of Marigold HL SuperMilk® deliver 20g of protein, which is about a third of the daily protein requirement for an average adult.
For caregivers, Marigold HL SuperMilk® offers a dual benefit - it helps maintain their parents’ strength and independence while ensuring they stay strong enough to manage their busy lives.
Incorporating it into your family’s diet is a small but powerful step toward better health for everyone.Don’t Let Sarcopenia Steal Your Strength
Worried about the statistics and risks of Sarcopenia?
Don't - there's always hope!
By embracing small but meaningful lifestyle changes, you can protect your health and the wellbeing of your loved ones.
Marigold HL SuperMilk®, with its high protein and calcium content, offers an easy and affordable way to stay strong.
But of course, pair this with consistent exercise to set yourself and your family for a healthier, stronger future.
So, don't delay! Start today because every small step matters.
Visit the Marigold HL SuperMilk® official website to discover the healthier choice for you and your family today!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!
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