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.
