How to Respond When Children Play With Each Other's Feet

Parenting can often bring up unexpected and sometimes amusing situations, especially when it comes to monitoring the interactions between young children. Recently, a parent shared their experience of witnessing their daughter and an 11-year-old friend playing with each other's feet, leading to a feet-in-the-face scenario that has sparked quite a discussion.

Observing the Situation

One parent noted, 'What would you do if you saw your 15-year-old daughter and her 11-year-old friend relaxing with each other’s feet in their faces touching and playing with them all day and saying, "Keep an eye on the situation so neither gets hurt while having the other’s feet in their face." '

Another parent chimed in, Oh that happens all the time. Why only yesterday I saw my 16-year-old daughter with her foot in her 10-year-old friend's mouth. They were laughing and giggling. Well actually only my 16-year-old daughter was since she is very slow and that’s why she hangs out with 10-year-olds and after all her 10-year-old friend couldn’t laugh as she had a foot stuck in her mouth. But geez it made me feel proud to see such a lovely sight. I sort of wanted to join in. I think next time I shall.

Guiding Children to Healthy Interactions

The responses from other parents range from reacting with a light-hearted laugh to serious advice. One parent suggested, 'I would laugh and say, "Time to take those feet for a walk." Let’s go. Their friendship and love for each other is precious.' Another parent advised, 'I would just inform them that this is not proper and write it off as stupid things children do.'

A third parent raised a more serious concern, stating, 'Sounds like the beginning of a foot fetish. IMO they’re spending too much time playing with each other’s feet. It’s not healthy to do that. Do they do anything else besides playing with each other’s feet? I would talk to your daughter about this and tell her that this is not a healthy activity for the two of them and that you want her to stop doing this or at least not do this all day.'

Understanding Child Development

Another parent provided a thoughtful perspective on this situation. They noted, 'It is normal only for them because of the rapid growth of their teenage physical and emotional development. Just observe them that they should not cross the boundaries before they become more adult.'

Conclusion

Parenting often involves navigating a delicate balance between providing guidance and allowing children to explore their relationships in healthy and safe ways. It’s important for parents to observe, guide, and have open conversations about what is and isn’t appropriate behavior, especially when it pertains to physical interactions. Ensuring that children develop healthy relationships and boundaries is crucial for their growth and well-being.