Dear editor:
In today’s culture, protecting the innocence of our children has become increasingly difficult.
From sports uniforms to social media, children are being exposed to adult themes long before they are emotionally or mentally ready. It's time to reclaim a childhood rooted in modesty, dignity, and spiritual grounding.
Athletic Uniforms: Too Much, Too Soon
Many athletic uniforms, especially for girls, have become increasingly short, tight, and revealing.
While freedom of movement is important in sports, some designs cross the line from functional to inappropriate.
Young athletes should be able to compete confidently without feeling exposed or uncomfortable. When uniforms mimic adult fashion trends, it sends confusing messages about body image and self-worth.
Adults Must Lead with Prudence
Some of the greatest threats to children’s innocence come from the adults who should be protecting them.
Whether it’s coaches choosing revealing uniforms, schools allowing suggestive performances, or influencers involving minors in questionable content, too many adults are failing to set proper boundaries.
Children need role models who will guide them with wisdom and maturity, not expose them to harmful behaviors for popularity or convenience.
Advertising and the Loss of Childhood
Children are constantly targeted by advertisements that sexualize fashion and behavior. Even products marketed to young girls often mimic adult styles.
This overexposure conditions kids to believe their value lies in their appearance and appeal rather than their character, curiosity, or creativity. When innocence is traded for marketability, confusion and insecurity follow.
Social Media and Promiscuity
Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram push children toward performance-driven content that rewards attention-seeking behavior.
Suggestive dancing, revealing outfits, and flirtatious posts are often seen as paths to popularity.
These platforms are not designed for children’s well-being; they’re built to capture attention and fuel comparison.
Without clear guidance, kids become consumed by a false sense of identity rooted in likes and views.
Returning to the Teachings of Jesus Christ
To truly defend our children’s innocence, we must return to the moral clarity found in the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Christ teaches humility, mercy, service, and purity. These values stand in stark contrast to the self-centered, appearance-driven culture surrounding us.
Children should be taught that their worth is not found in how they look or perform online, but in being loved by God and called to goodness.
Homes and communities grounded in Christ's teachings offer children a solid foundation of identity, value, and purpose.
A Call to Action
Defending innocence isn't about fear—it’s about love, responsibility, and truth.
We must advocate for age-appropriate choices, call out harmful influences, and lead our children toward a life of purpose rooted in faith. Innocence is a sacred part of development, and it deserves our full protection.
Sincerely,
Doug Clark, Worland
