I recently stumbled upon something about which I am quite conflicted. I have been trying to sort out my feelings on this for about a week: They have day spas just for children. Like, full service day spas—massages, body wraps, facials, for children starting at age 4.
The spa faculty are specially trained to work with children, which is good, because there is something potentially creepy about handing over your four old for a body polish to a novice…or someone with a criminal record.
This bothers me and I haven’t been able to articulate why. The spas promote relaxation for children, like kindergarten is so stressful, let’s get a massage. They also promote the idea of “treating yourself.” You got an “A” on your spelling test? You deserve a mani-pedi!
But these are some of the reasons I go to spas, so what makes it ok for me and not for kids? I guess, for me, it’s the idea that kids should be kids. Like, they have what, 12 good years of not having to cave into the adult world? Let them enjoy that. Let them run around and get dirty and play ball without having to worry about steaming their pores. I don’t like turning the focus of children to their looks; that seems like a cross they have to bear at too young an age anyway.
I know that it is fun for children to dip their toes into the adult world, I loved to play dress up and have my mom put blusher on me, and a day at the spa is probably more in line with that notion. But where is the line drawn? What’s next, bikini waxing for seven year olds?
What are your thoughts?