The Early Years Should they be Purposeful or Performative?

The question of purpose and performance is asked by committed early childhood educators each time children are exposed on social media. Undoubtedly The Early Years should be purposeful because children are not up for sale. They are born with talents and attributes and they should be given guidance on using them wisely. Unfortunately, irresponsible adults think nothing of showing off children on social media forcing the little ones to perform to the world at large.

Words - Shanthi Wijesinghe

Whether it’s TV programs or personal posts children are exposed. One may argue… “if other countries are doing it why not Sri Lanka?” Other countries have guidance and legal procedures and child law which is practiced and implemented…do we? Children should be protected and there are no easy ways to do this. We can ask parents to be vigilant yet parents are unaware of the harmful effects it brings to children. 
Does “Celebrating Children” mean placing them in harm’s way? Isn’t it about keeping them safe and secure?  This is not to say disallowing them from events – NO! It’s about using their images on online platforms giving opportunities to those who stalk upon innocence. Pedophilia is a mental health issue and every time these people see a child online, they use every opportunity to gain access to them.