Should my child forward a private message to another friend?

Identify the purpose of forwarding

Research context: Ofcom reported in 2025 that 72% of teens ages 13–17 who used social media or messaging platforms said they helped them feel closer to friends. Source: Ofcom: From apps to AI search — how the UK goes online in 2025.

The child may want to confirm a meeting time, share a joke, or ask someone to interpret an exchange. These purposes do not all require the full message. A plain summary of agreed logistics may be enough, while a private joke may be better left in the original conversation. Ask whether the sender should be consulted before a new audience is involved. Avoid making the child feel that every message is either public property or an absolute secret.

Reduce unnecessary exposure

Look at names, contact details, images, and nearby messages that would travel with a screenshot or forward. Do not share a whole thread when a specific practical detail is all that is needed. Use the service’s current features only after understanding the result. If the child wants help deciding what happened, choose an appropriate trusted adult rather than expanding the audience to more peers. Keep the review focused on the relevant information and avoid distributing sensitive material casually.

Explain the decision in everyday terms

You can say, “That was written for you, so let’s ask before sending it to the group.” Or, “You can show me when you need help.” Those statements serve different purposes and can both belong in the family’s plan. If the child already forwarded something carelessly, help them address the specific mistake and use the platform’s available controls where appropriate. Avoid promising that a deletion erases every copy or demanding a public apology that exposes the message to even more people.