On television and even at the local mall I have noticed how grown up today's youth is beginning to be. I see twelve and thriteen year old girls wearing miniskirts and makeup. I find myself shopping in the same stores as pre-teens. On the Internet I read worried young teen's rants about their lack of sex life at the age of fourteen. In my own conservative, mid-western town the high school even opened up a child care center so local teens with children can continue their education.
Whatever happened to just being a kid? We have children running around doing adult things and entertaining far too many adult thoughts. As an aunt, I want my niece's main concerns to be her science project and which sports she's going to try out for this summer; not whether her butt looks big in the latest styles or not.
Growing up isn't easy. There is a lot of life to learn while you're still under your parents' wing. When forced to mature at such a rapid rate, I can't help but think that a child is missing out on some important things. To be jaded by the age of eighteen is very sad, indeed.
So, please, take life as it comes. Have fun! What will be, will be.

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