EDUC 6358: The sexualization of Early Childhood


Admittedly, Sexualization in early childhood is an issue that causes concern among educators and parents as children are exposed to sexual content through the media, commercials, and even various children's toys (Levin & Kilbourne, 2009).


The peed on social media are packed with young girls looking at the camera, wearing plenty of makeup in sexy poses. In my community, as twelve years old, young girls are giggles and flirting with high school boys, taking risks and not being aware of the consequences of their actions. I have noticed parents losing control of their daughter's leniency, sharing their concerns but feeling hopeless. Moreover, as some parents are aware of the harmful consequences of their children's behavior to their self-image, they cannot monitor their children's screen time at home, as children are exposed to sexualized materials outside the home.


Through the messages children received from the media, children learn the narrow definition of gender and sexuality that focuses mainly on appearance (Derman-Sparks, 2010, p.96). Through the messages they received from the media, young girls perceive their worth is based on how sexy they look and not on their competencies, talents, and values (Derman-Sparks, 2010, p.96). 

As professional educators, we can guide parents to monitor their children's exposure to the media, instilling values in children to portray their self-worth based on who they are and not by the way they look (Derman-Sparks, 2010). Besides, we should support families to raise the issue of Sexualization in childhood with their children and foster open communication and safe talking (Derman-Sparks, 2010, p.96). Lastly, the Sexualization of youth is a topic that should be raised to promote awareness to monitor the capacity of companies to use sex in their programs (Derman-Sparks, 2010, p.96).

 References:

Derman- Sparks, L. & Edwards, J. o. (2010). Anti-bias education for young children and ourselves. Washington, DC: National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).  

Levin, D. E., & Kilbourne, J. (2009). [Introduction]. So sexy so soon: The new sexualized childhood and what parents can do to proteact their kids (pp.1-8). New York:Ballantine Books. Retrieved from: http://dainelevin.com/sosexysosonn/introduction.pdf

Comments

  1. AnonymousFebruary 19, 2021 at 4:29 PM

    Ilana,
    Children are receiving many mixed messages from the media, movies, peers, and the latest on snapchat and tiktok. I have noticed my own children talking about designer clothing and makeup (something very new) and talking about how many 'likes' someone has. When I look at the pictures they show me, it is almost all sexualized - with young people. Not only is this unhealthy on a psychological level - superficially valuing things - it can create negative images where girls are brainwashed into thinking they have to be thin, and diet while still going through puberty. I agree we need to raise awareness to other parents and unite to help each other to take a stand for what is right and healthy for our children.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Anthony SingletonFebruary 20, 2021 at 1:43 PM

    Hi llana,

    I agree, social media has such a huge influence on children today. The things that they are exposed to have been magnified like never before. I think it's the overall access that they have because of things in society. Many young children have cell phones at an early age because their parents would like to have constant contact with them. However, these devices can also be used to view inappropriate things that aren't appropriate for their age.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Travis AlumbaughFebruary 21, 2021 at 5:36 AM

    Hi Ilana,
    This topic has often been glossed over in my early childhood experiences. Thank you for your courage in speaking about it. Negative body image is something that influenced female and male children and adults in our family. I have witnessed it in client families and felt helpless in a caretaking role to do anything meaningful to stop it. If children are focused on something they feel is not "correct" with their being, they cannot fulfill their potential in life. This perspective does hinder progress. Thank you again for discussing this.

    Enjoyed reading and responding.
    Travis Alumbaugh

    ReplyDelete

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