🚨 What That Emoji Really Means: The Hidden Dangers Parents Need to Know About

You’ve probably seen it – the aubergine, the flame, or even the innocent-looking snowflake – dropped casually into a text or Snapchat message.

To most parents, emojis are just harmless fun. But as highlighted in the recent TV documentary Adolescence, these small icons can carry dangerous, coded meanings in the world of teenagers.

And for many of us, it’s a world we’re no longer fluent in.

Why It Matters

Our children are growing up in a digital landscape where communication is fast, fleeting, and often hidden in plain sight. Emojis aren’t just for fun – they’re part of a coded language that can disguise conversations about drugs, sex, self-harm, or peer pressure. The risks aren’t just about what’s being said, but who’s listening… or not listening.

Many of these messages are shared through platforms where content disappears after a few seconds. That makes it even harder for parents to spot warning signs early on.

Examples That Might Shock You

• Snowflake ❄️ – Can refer to cocaine.

• Leaf 🍃 or Tree 🌳 – Often means marijuana.

• Aubergine 🍆 and Peach 🍑 – Frequently used to talk about sex.

• Red Circle 🔴 – May suggest a gang or a challenge.

• Skull 💀 – Not just about humour – it can hint at suicidal thoughts in some contexts.

It’s a new, fast-moving language – and most of us were never taught how to speak it.

But Here’s the Good News

This isn’t about fear. It’s about awareness.

You don’t need to understand every code or trend – but being open to learning what your child’s digital world looks like is a powerful step.

• Start the conversation. Ask what emojis they use and what they mean to them.

• Create trust. If your child thinks you’ll jump to panic or punishment, they’ll hide more.

• Stay curious. Keep an eye on apps they use, but also ask open questions like, “Have you ever seen something online that made you feel uncomfortable?”

You’re Not Alone

Many parents feel overwhelmed by the pace of digital culture. But talking – really talking – to your children about what’s happening online can make a world of difference.

Adolescence brought these issues into the spotlight. Now it’s our job to keep them there – in our homes, in our conversations, and in the way we guide our children through growing up in a hyper-connected world.