Miley Cyrus banned in my house!
Tuesday, April 29th, 2008
So the latest buzz is Miley Cyrus’ photo shoot for Vanity Fair. The whole situation infuriates me on several levels and there are so many people to blame from the photographer, parents, managers, Disney (have they made a public statement yet?) along with the media that perpetuates the chaos.
As the mother of a 4 year old, I am very cautious about what is on my television. When we watch TV, it’s PBS or appropriate on demand shows so I can monitor what my daughter sees.
Of course, I am not with her every hour and she has sleep-overs with friends and cousins. Much to my dismay, Abbi has watched High School Musical and Hannah Montana during such sleepovers. So what is the big deal if my 4 year old is a Hannah Montana fan? The problem is Abbi, at age 4, is too young to differentiate the behaviors she sees and how she should act. Young children learn by mimicking the behaviors they see. Didn’t we all learn from Britney and Christina that working for Disney does not make you sweet or innocent?
You may think I am over protective by thinking these shows are inappropriate for a 3 or 4 year old. Yesterday’s photo of a half nude, 15 year old child all over the media — who happens to be the most influential media figure for the tween age group down to school age children — makes me hold firm to my beliefs.
As a Mom, it is my job to protect Abbi’s innocence; being strict about what she sees is the greatest way to do so.
It’s not about the shoot being “beautiful” or “artistic.” I was an art major - I get it - but what I don’t get is anyone thinking a 15 year old child posing half bare is appropriate, is in the best interest of that child or the children Miley Cyrus is such an influential power over.
I must say, I will be sure to make it perfectly clear Miley Cyrus/Hannah Montana is banned in my house!
Sorry, Abbi, no sleep overs for a while. Mom has to do what Mom has to do.