Results tagged “sexualized childhood” from Buzz

Have you noticed how everything is sexy these days? The iPhone, those teenage girls, Bratz dolls, my new boots and, perversely, the eight year old on the playground in her tiny miniskirt and boots.

Sexy is everywhere and it’s one of those things your kids should know about – what it means, that is.

“Sexy” has to do with sexual attraction – making yourself look good in a way that will attract a sexual partner. For me, this is the core of the concept.

Is this something you want your kids trying on? Being “sexy”? Are they ready to attract sexual partners? What kinds of clothing are they wearing? Does your eight year old girl look like a teenager?

What do you think our boys are thinking about these sexy little girls they are faced with everyday? Probably nothing, if they aren’t bumping up against puberty, but what if they are? Do you want that cute 5th grade boy thinking naughty thoughts about your sweet little girl? I didn’t think so.

This is a cultural problem, inappropriate sexiness and it’s hard to avoid. Perhaps if we talk to our kids about what this is, what it means and what our values are around it, our kids will make different decisions about what clothes the “love” or TV shows they insist on watching.

Maybe not.

I just finished this amazing book about what the authors call "sexualized childhood" and I am more inspired than ever to help parents help their kids.

One thing I took away from this book is something I hope you will be able to take to heart - it's not your fault. Did you hear me? I'll say it again - It's not your fault.

As parents we hear all the time that we should control the media our kids are exposed to - they shouldn't have unfettered access to TV shows, video games and other media. WE need to stop buying our kids Bratz dolls and violence themed toys.

This is all true - we should control what our kids have access to.

However - we did not decide to produce these products and shows. Big Business did.

We did not decide to sell "pink" and "princess" and "sexy" to our girls. Bid Business did.

We did not create toys with war and violence themes. Bid Business did.

Big Business wants us to buy this stuff - they do not care about the impact on our kiddos. They care about money, money, money and that's it.

So give yourself a break. This is a cultural problem and while you can't fully combat it - our kids will be exposed to this stuff - you can talk about it with your kids and spend a little time making sure you understand what it is your kids are watching on TV.

If it's not appropriate, explain why and find alternatives. You'll be glad you did.