In an ideal world, young children would not be exposed to sexualization at a early age, but we live in a society in which sex is on every channel, in every magazine, in every commercial, and on every radio station. On one hand , I think it should not be exposed at an early age but on the other hand it is important for young children to know what is acceptable and not. We live in a world where young children are being molested and killed by adults and it sickens me.
I talk to my girls about appropriate behavior constantly. They are growing up and beginning to have questions about things sexually related. We discuss clothing, actions, music videos and movies. My girls love fashion and love dressing like their favorite television star. Sometimes I do not agree with their choice of clothing and I have to remind them of their age and what I expect from them. I can recall watching television with them one night and they were looking at a video by Beyonce'. The video was very disturbing and from that day on I began to monitor what they watched on television and what music they listen to. I have come to the conclusion that "sex sales" and people in the entertainment business have no concern for children and the impression they make on them. It is the parents' jobs to monitor and sensor their children.
Sexualization at such an early age can affect what children think and believe about themselves. Girls may think that dressing half naked is what they should do to get attention and be popular. I worry about this with my girls and strive to teach them different from what they see and hear from the media. As an educator, we can promote positive role models and encourage children to love themselves for who they are and not compare to what they may see on television. We can also encourage parents to monitor what they allow their children to view.
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