Yet, something holds me back.
Here’s the thing: I’m not what you would classify asa helicopter parent.
If you had to put a label on it, I’m more of afree range mom.
I try not to sweat the small stuff or worry too much about things I can’t control.
But that’s precisely where tickling comes in.
Thisissomething I can control… to an extent.
And, hey, you’ve got a point.
However, my parents also carted me around in the backseat of a station wagon without working seat belts.
My grandparents were allowed to start smoking before they could even drive.
We live and learn.
Boundaries have been crossed for generations.
The difference is, these days we know better because we know alot.
But ignoring it doesn’t make it any less true.
Tickling is an expression of dominance
Tickling unequivocally evokes themes of power.
Itfeelslike you’re doing something innately good.
But if we look at how tickling was used historically, it gets super confusing.
Throughout history, tickling was reportedly used as a form of torture.
According toCabinetmagazine, there are instances where tickling has even led to fatal asphyxiation.
But it wasn’t happy laughter.
What’s up with that?
That’s precisely the question a 1997studyout of the University of California at San Diego set out to explore.
So, what does this have to do with tickling a child?
I wouldn’t want anyone doing it to me
Being tickled makes me uncomfortable.
I especially don’t think it’s appropriate for anyone to spring a tickle on someone who is unsuspecting.
It suggests a sense of entitlement that makes me wary.
My body, my rules.
Why shouldn’t kids get the same courtesy?
He isn’t the only one with this kind of hang-up.
But as parents, we set the precedent.
There are so many other less controversial ways to bond with a baby and make them laugh.
A cursory Google search on the subject will yield countless suggestions.
Oh, who am I kidding, those wrappers make me laugh just as hard as my kids.
How do you explain consent to kids?
The hard truth,as evidenced by recent headlines, is that consent is a complex concept even foradults.
This is why it’s important tostart the conversation with kids early in an age-appropriate way, of course.
It’s a common misconception, butconsent is not just about sex.
So how exactly can weteach consent to kids?
you’re free to start by helping them recognize others' consent (i.e.
pointing out other people’s body language and respecting personal boundaries) and valuing their own consent (i.e.
not making them hug or kiss anyone if they don’t want to).
The earlier we help them understand that their bodies are their own, the better.
