Bodily Autonomy

[glenny_c]

I think I get both sides here. I think ,like most things to do with parenting, it's a fine line. You want children to feel like they are in control of their bodies but don't want to turn them into kids who are scared of any physical contact. I think the article was interesting, and I do a lot of those things myself but seemed a little "over the top" for me. I don't know what gave me that feeling, I'll have to re-read it and think about it some more but it seemed a little extreme for me. I wouldn't want my kids to think that I am seeing everyone as a potential molestor (although as a parent you kinda do), I don't want my kids losing their innocence or feeling afraid if someone gives them a hug. I guess it's the difference between encouraging my DD to show affection and forcing her. (have no idea if that even makes sense?)

[KitFaerie]

I think it's brilliant. I do a lot of those things with my son and will continue to do them, and talk more with him about the rights he has regarding his body. I really really wish someone had written this article when I was a child. I would much rather talk to him too much about these kinds of things than not enough. I'm totally happy to see everyone as a potential molestor, the same as I check twice before we cross the road. It's a risk, and I'd prefer to be aware of it.

I think the point of the article is that if you teach kids that they own their bodies, they won't feel afraid of a hug, because they'll know that they have the right to say ''don't hug me'', they are in control. It's when you feel like you have no rights that you get scared.

(this isn't aimed at you glenny, yours is just the post I remember the most! xo)

[Panda74]

Good one! I'm really weirded out and I think so are my boys when people give them a cheek squeeze without asking! I know they're super cute but control yourselves! I've probably come across as rude or cool myself because I don't hand over my boys for cuddles even to relatives unless I can see there's some genuine affection there and its something the boys would enjoy doing.

[blessedatlast]

I found that interesting.. I find myself agreeing with everything OP & PZ said..

I hate how adults think the are entitled to affection from children without thinking of the message it sends.