If you’re on TikTok a lot, you’ve probably seen a deluge of videos where parents pull a fast one on their kids in the name of social media content. Is it ethical though, and is there a 'right' way to prank kids?
You’ve probably seen the videos: parents doing the infamous #eggcrackchallenge where they crack eggs on the forehead of their unassuming child; or the ugly ghost prank where parents spook their kids with a ghost filter and, disturbingly, more. It sure did make for laughs, but how can such pranks impact kids? We explore the ethics of this trend.
It seems like it’s all in good fun at first glance, but some find it difficult to understand how pranking a child is okay. We’re always drumming this notion into the kiddos: treat others as you would like to be treated, but should we pull pranks on them? Is there a way that kids can be pranked in a kind and meaningful way?
What is #Pranktok?
#Pranktok is a curious social phenomenon where people play tricks on each other, and has been making waves and even international headlines since the advent of TikTok. For the most part, it’s funny, especially when celebrities get in on it. It makes for great laughs and entertainment, but what about when it’s involving kids?
Most recently, these are some controversial pranks involving kids that have made headlines:
This prank involves cracking an egg on your child’s head and laughing at his/her reaction. Hashtags such as #eggcrackchallenge, #eggcrackprank, and #eggcrack have more than 300 million video views, with some of the top videos getting millions and millions of views in the last few months.
This one has probably had the most criticism, even reaching local shores with local influencer Naomi Neo getting much flak for inflicting it on her child.
This prank has parents or older siblings placing a front-facing phone camera in front of the unsuspecting kiddo, then running out of the room and locking them in, as creepy laughter plays and a blue ghost pops up on the screen (and at times it looks as if the ‘ghost’ is right next to them).
So this challenge involved, well, a waste of some good cheese. Basically, parents threw a slice of cheese on their kids’ or babies’ faces for their questionably ‘adorable’ reactions.
These videos show the whole gamut of kids’ reactions, ranging from distraught to apathetic.
How does #Pranktok affect kids?
Funny as the trending videos might have been, they’ve had some of the general public, including professionals, scoffing and shaking their heads. Could there be good reasons for the adverse reactions? Here are the most common concerns:
1. The comedic effect might be lost on kids
When we play a prank on someone – and prepare to be assailed by those with Halloween around the corner – the “pranker” and “pranked” are both in on this farce. Humour relies on abstract thinking, cognitive flexibility and some understanding of social nuances. Even adults have varying senses of humour. It’s a whole other story for kiddos!
Research has shown that children cannot grasp the kind of humour that pranking relies on. For example, young kids under the age of three have yet to develop cognitive abilities to fully comprehend certain kinds of subtleties like irony and sarcasm. These skills are developing from ages three to six. So, kids take things literally. This could mean the “funny” in the egg crack prank, ghost filter and cheese challenges is lost on the little ones.
2. Kids see parents as their role models, so we shouldn’t contradict ourselves
If you’ve picked up any parenting manual, you probably would have chanced upon these lines: kids are always watching you!
You are your children’s first and most influential role models. This influence stems from parents being the primary caregivers and teachers during their formative years. They learn by observing and imitating the behaviour of those within their immediate environment.
So, from a young age, kids watch and mimic your actions, gestures and words! Parents’ positive or negative behaviours are children’s first and most immediate examples. We bet you’ve seen this in action, too! Take, for instance, this adorable TikTok video where kiddos were seen copying how a grandparent walked with his hands behind his back.
3. Erm, is this bullying?
So, we know how parents are kids’ first everything; should you then be their first bully, too? These TikTok challenges leave people feeling conflicted about whether it’s appropriate for the parent to do them in the first place. Pranks were originally intended to be harmless.
The only way to do this is to know what’s best for your kiddos and their appetite for the “funny”, so it’s really in your hands and how you approach it. Remember, we always strive for good enough parenting.
Is there a ‘right’ way to prank kids?
The urge to pull a fast one is tempting, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of the kiddo’s confidence, self-esteem and faith in you. It might take understanding your child and considering some important factors.
Here are some factors to consider before you think of pranking your kids:
- Consent
Some may not think of this as a big deal, but it’s important to ask kids if they might like to be in this prank, especially if it involves sharing it online. It never hurts just to ask your little one, “Hey, would you be ok if I were to crack an egg on your head?”
- Age and developmental stage
Remember, toddlers might not get humour just yet, so things might be genuinely upsetting for them. However, it might be different for a child in primary school.
- Safety
Pranks should never compromise kiddos’ safety or emotional well-being. Avoid pranks that might cause physical harm or emotional distress.
- Impact
Consider the potential long-term impact of the prank on the child. Some pranks might be forgotten quickly and laughed about later, while others could leave a lasting negative impression.
Check out how these parents chose to approach the challenge:
Do it to yourself first
@thymeandtenderness Yall…. It literally was so easy to do this prank better.. #eggcrack #eggcrackprank #prank #pranks #sahm #sahw #momsoftiktok
We love this mom’s take on the egg crack challenge! Do it on yourself, and hey, when kiddo is laughing, so are you.
Use respectful parenting techniques
@niky.mamamd Replying to @leftistinflorida I think the whole thing is ridiculous but if there is one way to do it, this would be the way while respecting everyone’s decision to either allow or not allow for the egg to be cracked on their head. But respecting kids and not making them cry unfortunately does not make for viral video content which is more important to some people. #pediatrician #funmom #respectyourkids #eggchallenge
It’s no fun being the butt of a joke, especially when someone doesn’t understand the concept of a joke. We love how this parent approached the challenge by first creating a conversation about it and giving her child the authority to make certain decisions.
In closing, here’s the thing: pranks should create positive and fun family experiences rather than cause harm or distress. Use your best judgment and consider your child’s personality and preferences when engaging in pranks.
Are you planning to prank your little ones? Make sure to ask for their consent and consider the aforementioned factors carefully!