I visited the lovely Jessica Gottlieb’s blog today and she had a post called ‘What Do You Call Your Vagina?‘. This post brought up a very important topic in my opinion. Momversation did a piece on this which is what sparked Jessica’s post and also mine. Here’s the video:
Private Parts: Do You Have Cutesy Names for Them?
So here’s my thoughts and problem: Parents that DO use cutesy names, do you feel this downplays the seriousness of the body part? I ask this because I personally think if we are calling them by cutesy names rather then proper names we are leading our children to believe that there is something to “hide” or be ashamed of. If there is EVER an issue, be it a medical issue or god forbid an abuse by someone, I want my kids to understand that this is a serious thing and they should come to me. But if we say things like “Does your pee pee hurt?” It sort of downplays the whole “need for medical attention” thing. I truly believe that this is 100% true and I’ve seen several children that laugh and joke about their private parts because they have pet names for them. To me, it’s not only weird, but it does downplay a very serious topic between parent and child. I’m not out to sell books on parenting, but I think I do have some valid points from time to time and this is one of them. Lord knows, I am by far no parenting expert. I learn as I go, but I think my kids are very well balanced, all things considered… no really they are!
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Even though I busted up laughing at this video, your post has some stuff that DH and I need to think about. For us, we understand the seriousness of our bodies, and the difference between talking casually and needing attention. But when we are ready to teach our children about their bodies, things will need to be a little more structured. We’ll need to use the same term each time we talk about a certain body part, we’ll need to emphasize the importance of being familiar with body parts and what they do, as well as the importance of protecting our bodies and keeping them safe and healthy. Oh man, you have made me glad that we have some time to talk about this issue, and make a plan for it.
I suppose that teaching my son that he should name his penis was a bit of a mistake, especially when he tells me that Herman is hungry. How am I supposed to take that.
Just kidding. We use “proper” names for body parts and have taught the kids that there is nothing wrong or embarrassing by using them.
HAHA!! Oh Jack that was too much! I died of hysterical laughter! That is something I could totally hear my husband saying! I would never want my son coming to me saying that though!
My parents had always used “pet” names when referring to our body parts and I was always timid to talk to my mom about issues that arouse. Hell, I asked a friend about menstrual advise BEFORE going to my mother. Having both a son and daughter, I do not want them feeling this discomfort. I would rather be the person to answer ANY of their questions, no matter how embarrassing I may find it as a parent. It is important to me that they have the correct information, therefor coming to me is better then going to a peer, in my opinion.
Thanks for your comment!
Marie, you definitely have some time to think about this before you have to face the situation, but yes, this is one of the many things that comes with the joys of parenting. I am glad that I could bring the topic to light as something you feel you should discuss with your husband. I do feel it is important and I am glad my readers agree. Be sure to check out momversation.com for more amazing videos and topics! I will more then likely be doing another “controversial” topic like this again. I would like to hear from parents, either way.
Just browsing and located your website – thanks for sharing.
Your very welcome! I hope you enjoyed the article!