Chrissy Teigen shared a personal moment on social media, posting a snapshot of herself in the bathtub with her three youngest children: Wren (18 months), Esti (2 years), and Miles (6 years).
This moment immediately sparked a variety of reactions, with many praising her openness while others criticized her parenting choices.
The feedback was mixed. While some viewers found warmth in the image, others were less enthusiastic about a mother bathing with her children of that age.
The Response to Chrissy Teigen’s Family Moment
Commenters had strong opinions, with several believing that the children are too old for such moments. One individual suggested it was inappropriate, stating, “They are way too old to be in the bath with you.”
Another person described the photo as “weird,” with some insisting that children at that age should not share a bath with their mother.
One commenter went as far as to declare, “Nobody who is this old wants to bathe with their mom,” showing how polarized opinions can be around such intimate family moments.
Additionally, a viewer condemned the scene, saying, “Kids deserve privacy too.”
Reflecting on my own parenting, I wouldn’t share a similar photo online, but my perspective is that bathing young children, like Teigen does, is neither “weird” nor “cringe.” I can relate, as I also have boys aged 4 and 6.
To me, Teigen’s choice to bathe with her kids is both natural and healthy. Like her, I embrace my body without shame and want my children to do the same.
Of course, I understand that at some point, the boundaries of modesty will shift. But right now, that line hasn’t been crossed.
Interestingly, my teenage daughters feel comfortable walking into the bathroom while I’m showering, simply because they often cannot afford to wait. While I might desire some solitude, this situation illustrates that none of us feel awkward about nudity.
Ultimately, I acknowledge that each family operates differently. What feels appropriate for one family can differ greatly for another.
Understanding Boundaries in Family Dynamics
According to Steve Carleton, LCSW and Chief Clinical Officer at Porch Light Health, there’s a significant amount of nuance in parenting and family dynamics. He discusses how various circumstances, backgrounds, and values shape different families.
It’s essential to recognize differences without immediately labeling them as inappropriate.
From a developmental perspective, Carleton shares that for infants and toddlers, parental nudity is not only acceptable but can promote body positivity by normalizing their own bodies.
Shared bath times can foster bonding, create joyful experiences, and facilitate body awareness education.
However, this comfort can shift as children grow. Typically, around ages 3 or 4, kids may begin questioning these norms, leading to inquiries about anatomy.
It is crucial to listen for cues from your children indicating their comfort with nudity might be changing. Signs may include:
- Shuffling their feet or appearing nervous
- Avoiding eye contact
- Trying not to look at you
- Requesting you to cover up
- Making jokes about nudity
- Blushing or expressing shyness about nakedness
- Asking you to leave if they are exposed or requesting you not to watch
Carleton notes that gender can also affect comfort levels. A son may be more hesitant to be naked around his mother, while a daughter might feel the same with her father.
Navigating Boundaries with Sensitivity
Given the individual nature of family dynamics, Carleton emphasizes the need to respond to a child’s comfort levels and respect their privacy boundaries.
Jennifer Kelman, LCSW and a mental health expert at JustAnswer, echoes this sentiment. She believes that setting boundaries around nudity becomes vital as children grow, starting around age 2, but emphasizes the importance of clear boundaries regarding sharing personal images online.
In light of Teigen’s situation, Kelman stated, “The kids aren’t at an age where they can consent to that photo being shared.”
She points out that children may struggle to vocalize feelings of discomfort if nudity is normalized in the household.
Ultimately, Carleton’s approach stands as valuable advice: “Open discussions about nudity and our bodies, done respectfully and in age-appropriate contexts, can benefit children in the long run.”
