Kids like to push the limits, and one of the ways they do so is with their choice of clothes. Clothes are often used for self expression, and rebellion. So, the following is a look at when to fight over what your kids are wearing:
If it draws the wrong kind of attention.
If your daughter wants to wear cut up jeans, and a bright graphic tee, and you would prefer her to wear cardigans and slacks, it is not worth the fight. Sure, it is not the message you want out there, and the attention she gets from it is not what you want, but it is not going to hurt her either. However, if she wears a see-through shirt and goes braless, and butt hugger cut offs, then the attention she will be getting is worth the fight. Clothing says something about who you are, what you are into, and the kind of person you are. All clothing draws some kind of attention or notice, even if it is just mild, so talk to your child about wearing the clothes that send the message they want to send, and portray them in the best light.
If inappropriate for the event or outing.
A fight may be necessary if your child tries to wear something that is simply inappropriate for the event or outing they are going to be apart of. For example, wearing a white dress to a wedding is not a good idea. Just as wearing a prom dress to a soccer match is not appropriate. Obviously these are more extreme examples, but it is worth talking to your child about appropriate options for where they are going. You do not wear pajama pants to school, for example, just as you would not wear them to a job interview. Short shorts are great for the beach, but may be inappropriate when seeing a movie with a mixed gender group.
School uniforms make this decision easy.
If it has inappropriate, racist, or other foul language or crude pictures etc.
Other people have to see your child’s clothing, and anything that is crude, foul, etc. should be discussed. While you may not love their silly phrase shirts, as long as they are not hurting someone, or inappropriate, then it is not worth the fight. However, nude pictures, swear words, or discriminatory words on clothing is not okay.
If it is not modest.
It is okay to fight with your child is they are wearing something that is immodest. Immodest clothing often send the wrong message, especially when you are a girl. It can tell boys that you are easy, and that they can take advantage of your body, or take sexual favors without anything in return (commitment wise). It can also lead to inappropriate behavior on the part of the child. You are supposed to dress the way you want to feel. So, if you want to be respected, dress in clothes that garner respect.
Parenting viewpoints from parents in the trenches, because parenting doesn’t come with a manual. In addition to