After reading the article “So Sexy So Soon”, I was devastated hearing what some children are saying at such an early age. However; it shouldn’t be that alarming due to the graphic messages the media freely displays. Examples include music, television, internet, video games, movies, and clothing. I teach second grade and have had several experiences with children’s conversations. Also, little girls will sing song lyrics and incorporated inappropriate dance moves during recess. Children have always been curious about sex and sexuality from an early age, and it is good for parents and schools to give them honest and age-appropriate information (Levin & Kilbourne, 2009). Parents and educators need to pay better attention to the messages that games, songs, movies, and television are portraying to our children. The sexualization of childhood is having a profoundly disturbing impact on children’s understanding of gender, sexuality, and relationships (Levin & Kilbourne, 2009). As a parent and an educator, I will strive to do a better job at taking a stand and helping children grow and develop in appropriate and respectful ways.
Levin, D. E., & Kilbourne, J. (2009). [Introduction]. So sexy so soon: The new sexualized childhood and what parents can do to protect their kids (pp. 1-8). New York: Ballantine Books. Retrieved from: http://dianelevin.com/sosexysosoon/introduction.pdf
Amy, it was interesting to hear your perspective as a second grade teacher and parent on the sexualization of early childhood. You are seeing in your students the very behaviors discussed in the article by Levin and Kilbourne. The lyrics of the popular songs that our children listen to are frequently obscene. You made an excellent point in noting that we need to pay attention to music and other media of pop culture. I agree that as parents and educators, we must do more to protect young children from the sexualized culture that has become a fixture in our society.
ReplyDeleteHi Amy,
ReplyDeleteEvery day as educators we are exposed to a lot of thoughts being expressed by our students. This process of sexualization is very important as it upholds a number of implications on our children. The resources presented were very valuable. Great post.
Amy,
ReplyDeleteI found this article shocking and disgusting as well. I am a mother of three boys and glad I do not have to fight the clothing battle with a daughter. Everyday at school, we are sending kids to the office to call a parent over inappropriate clothing, in the fifth grade. I can't beleive that parents buy some of the clothing for their daughters that they do. I would not want my daughters showing their cleavage nor wearing short shorts as this to me encourages and invites others to look at them. I guess I just feel that they should respect their bodies more. Call me an old fogey...but just my thoughts. Thanks for sharing!
Amy McCoig