Hey there, friends!

home insemination Kit

I get it—times are changing, and I’m all for being open to new ideas. With social media and texting, communication has definitely become more informal (I mean, I totally understand!). But sometimes, I can’t help but feel like our manners are becoming, um, let’s say… CASUAL.

I’m generally a fan of casualness in life: casual Fridays, comfy jeans, and laid-back dining experiences. Casual dating? Yep, I was all in on that too. There’s something nice about cutting through the small talk and getting real quickly (and by real, I mean sharing fries and maybe a few eye rolls).

Yet, I still have a soft spot for traditional etiquette, especially when it comes to how kids interact with adults. One of my biggest gripes? Kids calling adults by their first names. Even after years of parenting, it just feels… off. Like wearing white pants with dark underwear or ordering a steak at a sushi joint.

To top it off, my name is Olivia, and every time a kid says it, I can’t help but think of that catchy tune by The Ting Tings: “They call me hell. They call me Olivia…” You know how that goes—once that melody is in your head, your day is shot!

Sometimes I wonder if I’m the only one who feels weird about this trend. Many parents actually enjoy being on a first-name basis with their kids’ friends, saying it makes them feel young and vibrant. But let’s be honest, just because you’re called “Olivia” instead of “Mrs. Smith” doesn’t mean you’re not still the adult in the room.

So what’s a parent to do?

Some folks add “Miss” or “Mr.” in front of their first names, but “Miss Olivia” feels a tad too… sorority-esque for my taste. I even considered creating a rapper name for myself—how about “Lil’ O”? But, let’s face it, all the good ones are taken.

I’ve also contemplated going the Prince route and adopting a symbol for my name. Maybe a teacup? A cute cat silhouette? Who knows!

At the end of the day, I believe first-name basis should be a privilege reserved for peers. There should be some boundaries between kids and adults because, let’s be real: While I think you’re adorable, we’re not besties. Here’s why:

1. We’re not hitting the bar together.
2. I won’t be asking for your amazing dip recipe anytime soon.
3. We’re not going to share stories about our spouses—sorry, not happening.
4. If we were friends, I’d need to figure out how to use Instagram, and that’s just too much work for me.

To help clarify the name situation, here’s a quick guide for you:

1. If you’ve had an accident in your pants in the last decade… no, thanks.
2. If you’re in clothes from Justice… also a no.
3. If you’re on a travel soccer team… enjoy the season, but still no.
4. If Skittles are a food group for you… big nope.
5. If you can quote more than ten lines from a Minion movie… um, no.
6. If you still order off the kids’ menu… pick no.
7. If your Disney ticket was half off… it’s a magical no.
8. If you’re rocking light-up sneakers… heck no.
9. If Santa is still your main man… ho ho no.

Thanks for understanding! (The mom formally known as Olivia)

P.S. Just so you know, I’m not even on a first-name basis with my doctor, and we’ve shared some pretty awkward moments (and by awkward, I mean cringe-worthy).

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Summary

In a light-hearted take on modern parenting, Olivia shares her discomfort with children addressing adults by their first names. She highlights the importance of maintaining boundaries, while also acknowledging the casual nature of today’s social interactions. Through humor and relatable anecdotes, she encourages a respectful approach to communication between kids and adults.