"Possibility of a Five-Year-Old Achieving YouTube Stardom: UAE Mothers Discuss Benefits and Potential Hazards"
In the digital age, a new breed of influencers is emerging - kidfluencers. One of the most prominent examples is Ryan's World, a YouTube channel run by a 10-year-old, boasting over 39.8 million subscribers and over 161 million views. Dr. Sneha John, a clinical psychologist based in Dubai, expresses concerns about the impact of running a rigorous YouTube channel or engaging in influencer work on children's development.
According to Dr. John, a performative mindset, driven by the desire for social approval, can curb the natural freedom of childhood and affect a child's real communication and social skills. Children may become preoccupied with the rise and fall of likes and followers, leading them to crave social approval and try to fit into a mold. In extreme cases, children can begin to live for the cameras, developing a "performative mindset."
Parents of kidfluencers, such as Ryan's, often act as both legal guardians and employers, managing their children’s influencer careers usually from home. The financial rewards can be substantial; Ryan and his family are estimated to make around $25 million a year from the channel. However, this financial success comes with its own set of concerns.
Leigh Robertson, a mother, would not allow her 9-year-old son to start his own YouTube channel due to concerns about cyber-bullying and mental health. Caitlin, another mother, had a conversation with her 8-year-old son about starting a YouTube channel, expressing concerns about the impact on a child's personality and the misconception that it can be a full-time job.
Priyanka Sharma, a corporate communications professional, discusses her son's interest in starting a YouTube channel and the need for a balanced approach. She encourages any creative outlet for children, as today's fascination might not be tomorrow's, but it could spark a real passion or future career. Asha Sherwood, from the Abu Dhabi Review and a fellow mum, suggests guiding a child's interest in starting a YouTube channel, asking why they want to do it, and being present while they create content.
External risks also loom large for kidfluencers. Nearly 40% of children under 13 have active Instagram accounts, despite the age restriction of 13+. Dr. John warns of external risks, including catfishing and online bullying, for children who are active on these platforms.
In conclusion, while the rise of kidfluencers offers exciting opportunities for children to express their creativity and potentially earn substantial income, it also presents significant challenges for their emotional and psychological well-being. Parents and guardians should engage in open conversations with children about the pros and cons of running a YouTube channel or becoming an influencer, and consider the potential impact on their child's development.
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