Children are growing up too fast

CHILD sexualisation is now a major worry for UK parents with almost nine out of ten concerned about TV shows, music videos and the ever increasing celebrity role model culture, a report has shown.

A government commissioned review by the Department of Education surveyed 1,025 parents of kids aged five to sixteen. Of those questioned, 40 per cent said they had seen inappropriate window displays and advertising hoardings they felt were far to advanced for young children because of their sexual content. It was also agreed by 41 per cent of parents that TV did not come up to standard with programmes showing grown up subject matter before the 9pm watershed. Many children’s clothing, toys and games were also deemed unsuitable.

The review, which is not being released until May, explores whether retailers should be restricted on selling sexualised products aimed at kids such as ‘porn star’ t-shirts and bras with padding to encourage a larger bust. A brand that has also received negative response is Playboy, which can be found on clothing and stationery, among other things.

It was agreed by all parents that there should be stricter regulations on marketing to children and parents should be able to bring up their children the way they want.  They called for help on what sexual content and behaviour kids are exposed too.

Do you think our kids are growing up too fast?