In the world of parenting, playful pranks can often lead to laughter and memorable moments. However, a recent trend involving Snapchat’s frightening filters has taken this playful spirit to a concerning level.
Not long ago, Snapchat introduced a variety of filters, letting users transform into whimsical characters like rainbow-vomit monsters or horrifying demons that might haunt your dreams. While these filters can be amusing for adults, some parents have taken it upon themselves to use these creepy effects to frighten their little ones. If you search for terms like “scared kid on Snapchat” on YouTube, you’ll find countless videos showcasing parents “hilariously” scaring their toddlers, giggling as they capture the tears and fright on camera.
While many find these antics amusing, others, including myself, believe they cross a line into inappropriate territory. Pranking children isn’t inherently wrong, but it’s crucial to understand their capacity to process fear. Many of the children featured in these videos are preschoolers or younger, who might not fully grasp the difference between reality and fantasy.
Understanding Children’s Fear
Dr. Emily Johnson, a child psychologist, points out that kids under the age of seven often struggle to differentiate between what’s real and what isn’t. Even when reassured that the scary image is just a trick, the fear can linger. Adults can usually shake off fears rooted in fantasy, but toddlers don’t have the same ability.
This doesn’t mean that kids should never experience fear or that parents are terrible for having fun with their children. However, there should be a limit. If a child is genuinely frightened and crying, it’s a clear indication that the prank has gone too far. Persistently shoving a phone in their face to amplify their fear is simply misguided.
The Importance of Emotional Boundaries
While playfulness is important in parenting, respecting a child’s emotional boundaries is crucial. Instead of continuing this trend of scaring toddlers, we should focus on nurturing their sense of safety and comfort.
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Conclusion
In summary, while it’s tempting to engage in playful pranks with children, it’s essential to recognize the boundaries of what they can handle. Using terrifying filters on Snapchat may seem funny in the moment, but it ultimately undermines the trust and safety that children need from their parents.