Friday, April 18, 2008

Problems, problems...



Just what do you tell the kids when you go in for plastic surgery? But luckily there are experts around (as always) to tell us how to do it properly.

Now, I'm not necessarily against cosmetic surgery. But I am anxious about encouraging the four to seven year olds the book is aimed at to think that being beautiful is what it's all about. One suggestion, apparently, for talking about a nose job is that it will make Mummy look "not just different, my dear -- prettier!."

My, I feel sparklier just thinking about it. A short story here, surely?

12 comments:

Alex Johnson said...

Is there a companion volume for daddies?

Sarah Salway said...

Not as far as I know. Heck, you could write it...

Alex Johnson said...

Are you saying I need plastic surgery?

Kathryn's Daily Writing Workout said...

All parents need plastic surgery. Most of us don't bother, resigned to the inevitable bodily deterioration that comes with having children. Anyway, it's much easier to embarrass your children if you're not perfect anyway.

Sue Guiney said...

I'm glad I read this before lunch and not after. Yuck!

Sarah Salway said...

Alex, don't be such a sensitive petal! Although... Nah, you're perfect just as you are. And Kathryn and I will laugh at you for not embarrassing your children, won't we, K?

Sarah Salway said...

I know, Sue, but the feministing articles are very interesting- particularly the comments.

Nik Perring said...

Oh. Sheesh. That's sad.

N

Alex Johnson said...

I've actually had plastic surgery already...

pierre l said...

Hello Sarah. Off-topic, but I am confident that the comment that just says "See Please Here" points to a virus, or some other form of malware. I would encourage you to delete it, please.

Deborah Rey said...

Like with everything else: be honest with your children.
If you go for plastic surgery for something that has been bothering you all your life, like a nose, or tiny/huge boobs, breast reconstruction, scar removal, TELL them. Kids are smart and compassionate.
If you go for the 'I'm a Barbie doll' surgery, just tell them Mummy is scared sh**less to get old (and doesn't see how beautiful wrinkles can be, how they 'make' a face).
How to, how to?
It's like that nonsense of birds and bees. Better talk straight and stress using condoms.
Honesty ... for a change.
Same goes for daddies.
End of rant.

Sarah Salway said...

Thanks, Pierre - all removed.
And yes, Deborah. Feel free to rant here, you're always welcome because you talk sense!