Hmmmm this is a very interesting topic!
For obvious reasons this is a topic that will have various responses depending on the type of homes we were brought up in.
Personally I don't have a problem with a limited amount of nudity around children. I have a 5 yr old son which has seen me in my undergarments around the house. I don't beleive that I have done any psychological damage to him. In fact I am very open with him about the female body, answering all his questions intelligently. During potty training he was allowed to go into the bathroom with his father. Of course the obvious questions of size came up, and that was also addressed intelligently. If I had a daughter then she'd probably see my body in full nudity (who knows---haven't crossed this bridge yet!)
Out of natural curiousity my son asked questions about why women have certain features that men don't. He also wanted to know if it was okay to touch these parts. This is when parents should begin to educate children, especially males, about what is appropriate and what's not. How many of us women felt offended when little boys in our classes/neighborhoods/etc. tried to cop feels? The males on this forum can admit that by the time they have reached puberty they have probably already violated a girl physically. Education starts in the home and should be started early! Personally, if I had a daughter I would not want to hear that your 8 yr old son didn't know better or mean anything when he grabbed her buttock or breast! (whatever little she had)
My son, his father and I have also had the opportunity to discuss what is appropriate dress outside of the home, We have also had discussions on who should and shouldn't see you in your under garments, abuse, and good and bad touches. It may be posssible that some sexual abuse could be avoided or at least caught very early, if parents were more open with children.
Did you know that one main reason why sexual abuse continues is because children believe that they may have done something wrong, or are taught that these are issues not to be discussed? I feel better knowing that I have participated in educating my child and that he does not have to rely on street knowledge, especially on issues as important as this!
Now on the other hand one has to know the strenghts and weaknesses of their parenting skills. If you are not well versed or knowledgable, or just can't bring yourself to talk about sex, I suggest you enlist the help of a sex educator. We wouldn't want to confuse the child, now would we?
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"Don't hate me because I'm beautiful"
When da EAST is in da house....Oh my GOD!!!! DANGER!
[This message has been edited by OhSoPrettyNikki (edited April 17, 2001).]
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