Thursday, April 14, 2011

Parenting Faux Pas?

Just this past week J. Crew featured a new ad showcasing a mother and son enjoying what seems to be a normal day in any stay-at-home mother's life. But, if you take a closer look you'll see that this isn't your typical mother-son moment. Both with smiling faces (can be typical), the mother holds her son's feet (odd, but not bizarre), which have bright pink nail polish painted on them (wait... PINK nail polish?). Yes, on her son's feet! Now, being an educator, I understand the need to explore the imagination, let children play without critiquing or criticizing, so in my mind, I'm not really all that disturbed. But my opinion is not shared by many people; mothers, fathers, critics, reporters and so on. Some argue that this ad allows and encourages children to question their sexuality. Others say that it's a form of play and argue that if your daughter dressed up as a boy during play time, would you become upset? Here's my opinion, and please understand that I am not rejecting or criticizing any body else's opinion. What makes this ad controversial is not that the child has nail polish on his toes (although some may disagree), but it seems that the mother has done it for him. I don't think either are bad, but I believe that that is what most people are getting caught up on, the fact that it seems as if the mom is encouraging her son to play with, what's typically labeled as, 'girl' products by helping him paint his toes. I have no concerns over this sort of play, but I know many other people do.

Would you let your son paint his toe nails? Would you help your son paint his toe nails if he asked? HOw about this. Would you let your son play with dolls and Barbies? Or, would let your daughter get a crew cut if she wanted one? What about allowing your daughter to play with a tool set (made for children)? Do you believe this act of 'play' is really encouraging your children to question their sexuality? Let me hear your opinion!



An Update on my post... thanks to a college friend, and Jon Stewart :-)
(WARNING (to those who might be offended...): there is some foul beeped language and inappropriate references in the clip)

http://www.hulu.com/watch/232355/the-daily-show-with-jon-stewart-wed-apr-13-2011

Monday, April 11, 2011

The Million Dollar Stroller

Okay, so this stroller isn't a million dollars, but it is the most expensive, high end stroller you can find on the market. It's called the Bugaboo. The basic stroller starts at $600, but if you want the convertible stroller, no I'm not talking about top down, hair blowing in the wind convertible, I'm talking newborn to infant to toddler convertible, that stroller starts at $1,029 and with each add-on seat it is another $400-$600. But what does this outlandishly expensive stroller get you, other than a loan with your local bank? Status. Anybody who is anybody in the world of baby will recognize this stroller in a snap. With wheels that are made with the technology of an all-terrain bike tire, that spin like the new style found on rollable suitcases, and the minimalist, modern appearance as if coming straight from the Jetsons' home, these strollers are definitely one-of-a-kind. The fabrics come in an array of bold, bright colors, so you can individualize your stroller to fit you and your baby's personality. And if you find it difficult to pick just one color, no worries, have your choice of two when purchasing one of the convertible strollers! Mix and match with basics and your choice of color from the rainbow! All for only another $100! But, what's $100 when you're already spending $1,000 for the stroller? Oh, did I hear you say you wanted somewhere to put your $8 venti, non-fat, vanilla, no-whip iced cappuccino? No problem! Bugaboo also sells 'accessories' for your stroller. A cup holder will only put you back another $30. And how about adding something chic that will shade your baby from the sun (since you bought one of the strollers that does not come with a canopy)? A parasol can be added to your order for $40, and in one of 13 colors! Feel like also giving to charity while supplying your little one with the newest, greatest stroller there is, Bugaboo gives 1% of all revenue to a global organization to help in the elimination of AIDS in Africa. So, for the hip, modern, parents out there who want to be sporting the latest, chicest stroller, don't be caught with anything other than The Bugaboo!

Halle Berry

Naomi Watts

Jennifer Garner

Friday, April 1, 2011