It's all over the media. The Abercrombie & Fitch bikini with a built-in push-up bra. Too much for 7 (to 14) year old girls? As a summer camp and youth expert, I think so.
NBC's Today Show and WPIX News this morning, to name just a few, covered this story. I am on the side of too much, too soon. I agree with the child development experts (Dr. Janet Taylor, Dr. Robyn Silverman); this is a teachable moment. But don't flaunt this story; that is likely what the store would like. Girls need to feel comfortable with and proud of who they are at all ages; bodies change dramatically once girls hit puberty and to think they should emulate bodies much older than they are is inappropriate.
When I visit camps each summer, I look especially to observe how girls are dressed, young girls, the teens and the staff, who are the younger girls role models. I also see which camps allow make-up. I applaud camps that don't allow two piece bathing suits - be it girls or coed camps. Uniforms can help with this issue.
Parents, especially moms, let your your daughters be children as long as they can. Once they start dressing in a more sophisticated manner, it is tough to turn the clock back (physically, emotionally, behaviorally and socially). Hold strong to your morals and values; your daughters will thank you when they get older.
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