In Thailand, social media has become a central part of how many children experience everyday life not only as viewers but increasingly as content creators and aspirational influencers. This paper explores how children, particularly those under the age of 13, are navigating online visibility, often without the media literacy skills needed to critically understand their participation in digital culture. Focusing on the Thai context, I examine how children are positioned—and at times positioned themselves—within the influencer economy through family vlogs, product unboxings, lifestyle content, and viral moments. Much of what is known about child influencers comes from Western media studies, but less has been said about how these practices take shape in Southeast Asia. In Thailand, where social media use is widespread and influencer culture deeply embedded in youth culture, children’s digital presence is often shaped by parents, brands, and platform algorithms. Some begin their visibility journeys via parenting content shared by adults, while others are directly involved in creating and performing for platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. This paper argues for the need to integrate media literacy education early on—not only for children but also for caregivers—so that all involved are better equipped to navigate the ethical, emotional, and commercial dynamics of growing up online.

Authors:
Nunnapan Puathanawat, Mahidol University International College, Thailand

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Nunnapan Puathanawat is a University Assistant Professor/Lecturer at Mahidol University International College in Thailand

See this presentation on the full schedule – Sunday Schedule

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