Hi World! My name is Michelle and I am creating this blog to connect with other parents of seven year old children. I want to share my experiences, trials and errors, and super mom moments. And, I definitely want to hear about yours, too! Please enjoy my posts and comment often.
My oldest daughter, whom I will refer to as Popstar, turned seven this week. Wow! We celebrated with a family night out and then she was able to invite over three friends for a slumber party. Do you think seven is too young for a sleep-over?
I wasn’t sure, and my daughter was determined. It would only be a few close friends; how bad could it be? She has had sleep-overs before (one on one), but never as a group. I decided to allow it; here’s how it went…
The night started out well, but did present a few challenges. There was plenty of enthusiasm in the beginning. We had pizza, and then cake and ice cream. After, we did a small craft activity, and then Popstar opened her gifts. At this point, I had planned for the girls to free play. But, there was conflict on what to do. And, her friends didn’t want her sister to be involved. At one point one guest decided not to talk to anyone except Popstar’s four year old brother. They act so mature… until they don’t! We worked it out and, besides a few minor squabbles, had a wonderful time.
Popstar’s birthday brought up a few questions in my mind. I want to give my daughter the world, but I don’t want to raise a child that feels entitled either. I want her to be responsible, but not burdened. I want her to have fun, but be appreciative. I want to spoil her, but I want her to be thankful. Is any of this possible?
Back to the birthday… Gifts; what is an appropriate gift for a seven year old these days? She had asked for numerous things including a cellular phone and a guitar (a wooden one with real strings, NOT electric; very specific details!). She also asked to get her ears pierced. She thought it would be great if we could buy her all these things. She also asked for a FurReal Cat, some Barbie dolls and accessories, anything Hannah Montana, and the list goes on…
At seven, I feel it is time to set a birthday expectation guideline. So, where do I draw the line? How much is too much to spend on a birthday? My husband and I agreed that the guitar was something she really wanted and had been asking for often over the entire last year. We decided on the guitar and the Hannah Montana movie. The cell phone was out of the question. I feel that the responsibility of a cell phone cannot be appreciated by a seven year old. I realize some children at this age may have them, out of necessity, but there is no reason for my daughter to so why would I?
As far as the ear piercing, I have responded to this with a challenge. I consider this to be a privilege, therefore, it must be earned. There is a big responsibility attached to piercing your ears, especially in the beginning when the ears need to be cleaned and the earrings turned several times daily. And, Popstar has younger siblings that could choke on an earring if found left on the floor.
I suggested that she could prove that she was mature enough for the responsibility by taking on a few tasks around the house. I’m not instilling slave labor, just asking that she take initiative when she sees something that she can handle. This may be taking clothes to the laundry room that were left on the floor, or making her bed without being asked. Do you think this is a fair approach? I originally told her when she was ten she could have them pierced, but she kept insisting causing me to reconsider. Should I have stuck to the age concept, or allow her to earn it?
I guess I worry my daughter has unrealistic expectations because the role models she watches on TV. She loves the shows that star Miley Cirus, Selena Gomez, and Demi Lavoto. These girls are not in the second grade. They face issues my child doesn’t need to contemplate. Yet these are the same role models/television shows her friends watch. She’s too old for Barney and Sesame Street. Where are the shows for the 7-12 year olds?
Wow, I’ve really jumped around a lot; how about a poll?
I hope you’ll share your thoughts regarding any of the topics/questions in my post. I’d love to here from you; please leave a comment and join me again next week for more seven year old insight.
Thanks, Michelle
