I think I may have ranted about this before, but can someone explain to me why strangers feel it’s okay to try and play with my child, touch them or even ask to touch them? Would you approach a full grown adult and do those things? If the answer is NO, then don’t do it to someone’s child!
It happens more often then I’d like to admit and I tell people NO if they try to touch Valeria or ask to touch her. It is one thing to say a nice comment regarding my daughter, but don’t be creepy or weird toward her. I don’t need you making funny faces or repeatedly going “Hi! Hello!” in a child-like voice.
Maybe I’m just strange or over-protective in this crazy world of ours, but it’s frustrating for me as a parent. I would never just go up to someone’s child and do that, so I expect the same common courtesy and respect. Compliment or smile or both and move along.
Anthony had an instance today, while he was out with Valeria and I was at an appointment. He took her to Starbucks for daddy/daughter time and to grab her a breakfast sandwich. A man came in, who Anthony said was a bit sketchy from the moment he saw him, and proceeded to sit right across from them after he placed his order. He kept talking to Valeria in a child-like voice and attempting to play with her. Anthony gave him a “warning” stare to basically tell him to stop and go away. Apparently the man got the hint because he left shortly after.
I stand by the fact that if you wouldn’t go up to an adult and do those things, then do not treat a child any different. How have we created a world where there are no boundaries towards how you interact with a child. Boggles my brain, but I definitely have boundaries for my daughter. Are we the bad ones? Maybe, but I don’t think so.
Anyway, rant over.
I hope you have a wonderful day or night wherever you are in the world!
Ciao!
Mama on the Move 