Frills and Bows, Oh No!

I have an acquaintance that has a daughter in dance classes. I'm not sure how old her daughter is (under 5 for sure). I'm not close to this person. But via the wonders of modern technology I was able to see some pictures of a recent dance competition. My jaw hit the floor when I saw the costumes...if you want to call them that. More like hooker outfits in super small sizes. It got me thinking. Would I let Brynlee participate in something like that? Umm no. Not a chance.

I was in dance classes when I was younger, and I loved them. I get that dance performances require a certain amount of stage make up, flashy outfits, etc. But for example something like this:




What is this? When did it become appropriate to dress little girls up and parade them on stage in things that women usually save for the bedroom? I wonder if it's the Mormon in me coming out. It's well known that we dress more conservative than most other people. But I don't think it's that. I think even if I wasn't LDS I wouldn't be comfortable letting my daughter wear something like this.

I worked at a street fair for my school a while ago and a dance group of little girls where performing. They were not in clothing quite like the above, but they looked more like the dancers in late night rap videos than children. Provocative dance moves, booty rolls a plenty...where are the cute little girls doing ballet in tutus?

I always say whatever floats your boat. People have the right to raise their children how they see fit. But I can't see what kind of positive message sexing up children sends. I just don't get it, I never have.

I'm planning on looking into dance classes for Brynlee soon. I hope I can find something that doesn't expect me to dress my toddler in lingerie!