Last night on Twitter I saw a few people taking about 'shag bands'. I had to Google them.
If you don't know what they are, there's an excellent article today in The Times.
On the face it it they're nothing more than plastic bangles, a fashion item, but when you know the meanings of the bands they become something else. They become a vile, repulsive symbol of the sexualisation of our children.
There are companies targeting children with these bands. They may say they're aimed at older teenagers, but they are sold to younger teenagers. Children as young as 8 are copying the playground craze.
I wouldn't want my hypothetical 8 year old daughter knowing about blow jobs and glow in the dark sex toys. Until last night I didn't know about glow in the dark sex toys. Each to their own, I suppose.
I get increasingly upset when I see young girls dressed up for parties in 'sexy' tops that show their bellies and mini skirts. They look tarty and swivel their hips, gyrating to misogynistic dance tracks.
Advertising, magazines and television (particularly MTV) are taking away our children's innocence. Girls are bombarded by airbrushed size zero models with fake breasts. This is not how most women look. This is not healthy.
The cult of celebrity is also damaging how youngsters view the world. There seem to be many children that believe just being on television is a worthy ambition. They want to be famous - no talent required. Even worse, they want to be married to someone famous. Being a footballer's wife should not be an acceptable career choice.
I know we no longer live in the 1970's - my age of innocence - but I'd like my children to be children for as long as possible. Sex and relationships and 'shag bands' can wait.
On days like this I'm glad I have sons and not daughters.
Image Credit: Timesonline
