During our childhood, it was pretty much universally accepted for daughters to be expected to reciprocate affection from adults, whether they liked it or not. Non-consensual kisses to grandparents and forced „thank yous“ were common occurrences. However, times have changed, and parents are now advocating for their kids‘ autonomy. This shift in parenting style can sometimes lead to awkward or uncomfortable situations, as moms and dads navigate these new interactions.
One such incident was detailed by a mom named Liz Kindred, who shared a story involving her six-year-old daughter. While waiting in line, a grown man turned around and commented on the child’s appearance, saying, „My goodness, you sure are pretty.“ Kindred’s daughter, who is introverted and perceptive, grabbed her leg tightly in response. Despite the man’s repeated comments, the little girl clung to her mother, clearly uncomfortable.
Kindred, drawing on her experience in a 12-step program, tried to remain calm and polite. However, the man’s insistence and condescending remark about manners pushed her to speak up. In a „Jesus loving way,“ she firmly told the man that she did teach her daughter manners, but she also taught her to set boundaries and not feel obligated to respond to compliments from strangers.
The video of this encounter, posted on TikTok, went viral, sparking a discussion among parents about how to empower their children to establish boundaries. Many shared similar stories of their kids asserting themselves in uncomfortable situations, with their full support. These anecdotes highlighted the importance of teaching children to listen to their bodies and set firm boundaries from a young age.
While the response to Kindred’s video was overwhelmingly positive, there were some comments defending the man’s actions as simply being „kind.“ In a follow-up video, Kindred shared her own experiences of seemingly innocent compliments escalating into uncomfortable situations. She emphasized the difference between being nice and being kind, urging parents to teach their children to prioritize their comfort and safety by setting boundaries early on.
Kindred’s message resonated with many, emphasizing the importance of empowering children to assert themselves and listen to their instincts. By teaching kids to establish boundaries and communicate their discomfort, parents can help prevent potentially harmful situations in the future. It’s a valuable lesson that will serve children well as they navigate the complexities of social interactions throughout their lives.
