When we become parents, there are many questions we have to ask ourselves. The first is “how on earth can I get more sleep.” The second, and those following on from there, usually pertain to the wellbeing and raising of your child.
Yet different parents have different priorities when it comes to their kids, especially when it comes to milestones. For example, you might find it appropriate to enroll your daughter into martial arts classes, a wise choice because of how it can help her learn to take care of herself, to resolve conflict, and be safer in a sometimes unsafe world.
Another is how quickly you offer them their maturity. For example, do you let your twelve-year old watch movies that are rated for an older audience, such as for older teens? Legally, no. Some parents might, however. When do you give them their own phone? Perhaps when they attend school, but without any smart features?
Another question is at what age should you allow your child to have their ears pierced? Some parents decide to do while their children are still in a pushchair. There are various cultural and sometimes traditional reasons for this.
While this article isn’t intended to judge anyone or dismiss anyone with an opposing view, we’re going to offer some warm and simple advice for any parent questioning the best approach:
A Note On Piercings For Infants Or Young Children
Some parents choose to pierce their baby’s ears early, often following family traditions or cultural practices that have been around for generations. Medical professionals generally agree that as long as the piercing is done in a sterile environment by trained professionals, using proper materials, it’s safe. The main benefit here is that the child won’t remember the experience, and parents can ensure proper aftercare. That said, some argue because the young child can’t consent to it, it’s best to let them wait until they ask. Also remember that not every piercer will want to do this.
When Piercings Are Requested
Kids who like ear piercings after seeing friends or family members with them. This interest most often starts around age six or seven, though sometimes earlier, and it can be later, like twelve or thirteen. The request itself shows a level of self-awareness worth keeping in mind, as at this age, children can better understand the responsibility of caring for their piercings and the permanence of their decision. They can also tell you if the piercing feels uncomfortable or if something seems wrong during healing.
The Standard Recommended By Piercers
Professional piercers often suggest waiting until a child is at least ten years old. For certain piercings, like when giving aftercare instructions for your cartilage piercing, they may suggest you wait until twelve or thirteen or older. By this age, kids usually have the maturity to handle the cleaning routine and understand that piercings need ongoing care. Their ear cartilage has also developed enough to handle the piercing well. Most reputable piercing studios won’t work with very young children anyway as we mentioned, as they prefer those who can understand the experience. So if they disagree and refuse service, this is totally their right. It’s always best to go to someone with great standards who takes pride in the care they give.
With this advice, we hope you can make more suitable decisions, depending on your own considerations, about your child’s possible ear piercings.
