The Correct Costume

Maybe this topic is a little off season, maybe it doesn’t matter. On my household, we don’t participate of Halloween. There are a lot of reasons for this. But on this post, I’ll only cover one: inappropriate costumes.

Can I suggest a different attire?

Not only on real life, but also on any social networks. Kids should never wear suggestive attire or costumes that will endanger their innocence. Imagine, if you will, a 7 year old wearing a bunny costume that does not fit well with her innocent persona (much like the one the girl on this post’s picture is wearing). Doensn’t it ring any warning bells? Can you imagine if some child molester saw her like that? that’s the only thing that comes to mind when I see this. That attire reminds me of the dress-up many Playboy Playmates wear.

Keep in mind your kid’s age

On social networks, and using Raúl’s post on friending kids on social networks as inspiration, you may find a few kids that wear what they think is a pretty dress on their profile picture or avatar. They might even have full photo albums of them trying out clothing that is completely inappropriate for their age. Problem is, adults do not see it the same way they do. I can never understand how parents let their kids wear suggestive clothing in the real or digital world. Those parents more than likely never even visit their child’s profile page on Facebook. They make it easy for any child predator out there.

Pants, please!

Back to the small girl. There’s a fast cure for this type of situation: put some pants underneath the skirt, after all, with those clothes, she won’t be able to play at all, and still… the costume remains innapropiate. I mean, think about it, she wouldn’t be able to move much without showing her underwear. Talk to your daughters about this. They need to understand why they need to put pants on and why you don’t approve of such costumes. If they are as wise as my daughter, you won’t even have to finish your speech. They’ll get it immediatly! Always remember that not all parents think the same way. Maybe some don’t see anything wrong with that attire, they believe no one can come and harm their kid. I urge you to think again. 

Someone is always watching

Next time you buy a costume for your child, be sure is age appropriate. Never expose them to sick people that might be watching them and creating dirty scenarios in their heads. Also be watchful of you children’s digital life.

What do you think? What is your approach to costumes? Are we indoctrinating our young ones on the incorrect path without knowing? Give me your thoughts!

Knowing their Virtual and Real Friends

For my parents being able to monitor who my friends were and who I was spending time with was as easy as looking at who got into the car with us or meeting up with.

Importance of Monitoring Online Actions

These days it turns into who their contacts are online. There are many conversations that can be monitored publicly but many that happen via more private channels such as chats or a Facebook private message.

For parents, it is a constant struggle to protect your kids from global, online threats not only the neighborhood threats. I have heard my good share of stories where someone has traveled to hurt a kid from one country to another.

If you have teens I guess it makes it even more of an effort to monitor without invading their space. At the end of the day, it is a matter of keeping clear communications with kids and teens on what they need to lookout for.

Don’t Invade Their Space

Have you had a conversation with your children about what is expected on the Internet? Maybe writing an agreement might help the children understand what is expected and help him clear out some of the many questions that run thru his or her mind.

How are you making sure that your kid’s virtual friends are worthy enough and are not posing a threat to your kids?

photo credit by smaedli

Ricardo’s Heroes

As a kid, I grew up with heroes at my side.  First hero: my dad.  He was an exemplary father and taught to respect and appreciate the fine details live brings us.  Second hero: my uncle Tato.  He is still with me, sharing his ‘jibaro’ wisdom from various topics: world events, politics, BBQ tips. Three heroes of mine: my sons Gabriel, Alex, and Marco.  A true blessing having three sons that I can call great friends, and one of them is also a dad (yes, I’m a granddaddy). Various heroes: all my good friends (Raul, Carlos, Roberto) that are dads, and enjoying every bit of it.

Lessons learned from the papaheroes:

by roland

 

1. Respect – this is a trait that can only be learned by modeling.  My dad always showed respect to my mother, me, and every person we met.  That doesn’t mean he agreed on everything we talked, but respect wasn’t negotiable.

 

 

2. Patience – during my life, this one has been a struggle.  My uncle showed me not to rush into things.  Take a step back, see your reality, and make a wise decision.  It’s worthy to wait than to quickly rush into things, with unforeseen consequences.

 

 

3. Friendship – my dad was my best friend. I didn’t see at first, but when you are raising your offspring, you want to be their best friend.  Earning their trust is so important, so they can relate to you their worries and misgivings when none is listening.

 

 

4. Love – last but the most important.  Without love, there is no friendship, no respect, no patience.  Love is the fundamental concept behind fatherhood.  Is not only a sentiment, is a decision. You love your children unconditionally, no matter what.

 

For all the fathers out there, we hope you had a Happy Father’s Day!