No lingering in childhood

Our current culture really has it in for us parents sometimes. If these five things were eliminated from my child-rearing landscape, my job would be infinitely easier.

1.Erectile dysfunction ads

Before many children are even ready for “the talk” they have witnessed countless commercials discussing how to be “ready” all the time and questioning if they are “healthy enough for sexual activity.” During the parent meeting of my fifth grader’s health education class last year (where adolescent body changes are discussed) the leader of the presentation said she has had boys ask “what do I do if I get an erection lasting more than four hours?” Thank you Viagra and Cialis.

2. Provocative clothing marketed to children

Push-up bras and thongs – for twelve year olds. The rear of sweatpants emblazoned with “Juicy.”  Suggestive slogans on t-shirts. What more can we do to say “grow up faster” and “sexualize your body” to our girls?

3. Skin – everywhere

Walking by the Victoria Secret store in Hamilton Town Center, I pass larger than life posters of mostly naked women. There is a segment of the population that appreciates this I’m sure, but with my two kids in tow, I don’t. Similarly, in the checkout line I can’t help but be kept abreast (no pun intended) of the latest celebrities’ “enhancements” and other body altering surgeries. Good luck developing that healthy body image, girls.

4. The word “sexy”

Did you know that your food can be sexy? Definitely your car should be sexy. I’ve even heard landscaping described as sexy. (I personally really don’t need my lawn to be anything but green.) The pervasive use of this word is an example of how we equate “sexy” with anything desirable.

5. Tween TV shows that focus on dating

Shows on the Disney Channel and Nickelodeon often revolve around plot lines of getting, keeping or losing boyfriends and girlfriends. Even if the characters are animated. While the actors on these shows may be teenagers you can bet the audience is much younger – intentionally. The message that it’s normal (and expected) to pair up with someone of the opposite sex early and often is clear.

It’s not my goal to raise my kids in a vacuum. I would just like the chance to let their childhood unfold at a pace I think is appropriate instead of them being propelled into adult issues before they need to be. Pushing back against these negative cultural forces that invade our lives is a constant battle.

 If only parenting were a sexy job.

Column originally appears in Current in Fishers http://currentinfishers.com/