When it comes to parenting, my partner and I are all about honesty with our kids. We tackle every subject head-on, ensuring they get clear answers tailored to their understanding. But let’s be real: we carefully consider what they’re exposed to and how much. Yes, we proudly keep them sheltered from things we believe they’re not ready for. Kids aren’t mini-adults; they’re kids, and they should enjoy that stage for as long as they can.
Some might criticize the idea of sheltering children, but I view innocence as a precious gift. It provides a calm space for kids to build their strength and resilience before facing life’s storms. Innocence, while fleeting, isn’t something we should hastily toss aside. In today’s world, where children are bombarded with information and images at every turn, preserving that innocence seems more important than ever. I don’t need to elaborate on the vast array of content readily accessible to kids nowadays. Even those families who are vigilant find it challenging to shield their children from inappropriate material.
For instance, I was visiting a friend’s house when I caught a glimpse of a kids’ show on Disney Junior, rated TV-Y7. In just a few minutes, I witnessed a rather questionable scene: a teen boy at a soda shop encountering his friend making out with a girl. The exchange was framed as comedic, suggesting that purchasing a drink somehow justifies such behavior. Is this really what we want second and third graders to internalize? That it’s amusing to objectify girls?
While some parents might watch these shows with their kids to unpack the messages, I suspect that’s a rare occurrence. Most people assume that since these programs are labeled for kids, they must be appropriate. But research suggests otherwise. The media children consume profoundly impacts them. We live in a world saturated with sexualized content, from movie trailers to magazine covers.
Now, let me clarify: I’m not trying to shield my kids from the concept of sex itself. As they grow older, we aim to have open and honest discussions about it. But I do want to protect them from unhealthy narratives and the over-sexualization of women and girls, which they encounter daily without even realizing it.
Having children has made me hyper-aware of their surroundings and how they absorb information. While I know I can’t protect them from everything (and wouldn’t want to), I can certainly steer them away from toxic influences. Instead, I want them to engage with art, music, literature, nature, and meaningful friendships — experiences that truly enrich their lives.
Yes, I tend to limit their exposure to mainstream pop culture. Does that mean they might not fit in with every group? Probably. But I’m okay with that. Fitting in isn’t essential for forming genuine friendships. I cherish the moments when my kids and their friends bond over their favorite book series or imaginative games. I don’t think they’re missing out on anything crucial.
Some argue that exposure is necessary for learning, and while there’s truth in that, timing is everything. Just like starting seeds indoors protects them from harsh weather, sheltering our kids fosters their emotional and psychological growth. Gradually introducing them to the world when they’re equipped to handle it seems far more prudent than throwing them into the deep end and hoping they can swim.
I firmly believe that exposing young children to adult themes and unhealthy relationship messages is detrimental. So, yes, I shelter my kids — not indefinitely but until they have the emotional tools to process those experiences. Childhood innocence is a precious phase, and they’ll have plenty of opportunities to be adults later on. For now, I want them to relish their childhood.
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In summary, protecting our children from inappropriate content and messages is vital for their emotional well-being. While we can’t shield them from everything, we can certainly create a nurturing environment that allows them to grow and thrive at their own pace.