Never Too Young?
Today Michael directs us toward a New York Times article, "Never Too Young for That First Pedicure."
...Which is pretty revolting to me. Granted, I'm not the norm-- I only started wearing minimal makeup when I was in college. Still, I'm guessing most people recognize this as a frightening phenomenon, even if it isn't completely unexpected.
Michael points out this line: But I’d rather my girls try it and decide they don’t need all these products to be beautiful, and then do something more vital with their time and money and efforts, like write a poem or take a walk or save the world.
I wonder how often that works, and how actively mom is trying to lead her daughters away from this kind of behavior. Seems like throwing a salon birthday party anyway might send a bit of a mixed message...
1 Comments:
Obviously the article features some completely over-the-top examples, but I guess I'm not terribly surprised.
When I was a little girl, I had some play makeup and special hair things and jewelry and purses- and I don't think I'm much of a girly girl today. I have my moments, but I don't think I have to wear makeup every day, and I think the last time I got a manicure was 3 or 4 years ago for prom.
Sometimes girls just like to feel like "adults," and I think that's what this is. I don't think it's 'frightening,' especially given the Hannah Montana craze that helps to inspire it- that, at least, will pass.
I think it's the attitude of the parents that determine how this might affect the girl. I think the fancy makeup and hair and such might be okay for a very special occasion or for playing dress up once in awhile, but it's not an everyday thing or something anyone needs. (And Mom's attitudes about makeup, etc. surely contribute to a girl's view of this.) I also think that girls can dress up, but they should also be encouraged to do things that aren't so 'girly'. And it's one thing to have a makeover party where you go to a local beauty college or even salon and get their nails painted and their hair put in an updo... but entirely another to let kids star in their own Mini-Sex-In-The-City, driving around down in a huge limo, getting spritzed with expensive designer perfume, and drinking out of margarita glasses. There's a way to cater to your child's interests without going over the top, something that a few of these parents (and the parents on the show Sweet 16) fail to see.
February 29, 2008
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