Shanea, a mother from Miami, defended her 9-year-old daughter, Sage, who was receiving negative stares and comments at an airport in Fort Lauderdale for carrying a baby doll. Sage, described as an exceptional child who loves dolls, traveling, and learning about other countries, was met with disapproval and awkward stares as they walked through the airport to their gate. Shanea, recognizing her daughter’s discomfort, held her hand tightly and advised her to always do what makes her happy, despite what others say or do. Shanea was heartbroken to hear grown adults talking negatively about her daughter and sought support from social media.
After the incident, Shanea shared her experience on TikTok, which garnered over 6 million views and almost 1 million likes, but also attracted negative comments, causing her to disable the comments section. She expressed disappointment in today’s society where children are pressured to grow up quickly, with social media, makeup, and relationships taking precedence over traditional childhood activities like playing with dolls. The Cleveland Clinic reported that social media can have negative effects on children, such as increased pressure to appear mature, leading to anxiety, depression, and a distorted sense of reality.
Despite societal pressures, Shanea values Sage’s innocence and happiness above all else. She prioritizes maintaining her daughter’s belief in magic and enjoyment of childhood pastimes, such as playing with dolls, over succumbing to the pressures of growing up fast. Shanea advises her sisters to refrain from telling Sage that Santa is not real, as she wants to preserve her daughter’s sense of wonder and joy for as long as possible. While social media may have its drawbacks, Shanea remains committed to fostering a nurturing and supportive environment for Sage to thrive in.
In a world where children are increasingly exposed to adult themes and pressures, Shanea is adamant about protecting Sage’s childhood innocence and allowing her to enjoy the simple pleasures of being a child. She emphasizes the importance of allowing children to believe in magic and revel in the wonders of childhood, rather than succumbing to societal expectations to grow up quickly. Despite the negative comments and disheartening experiences, Shanea remains steadfast in her commitment to advocating for her daughter’s happiness and well-being, valuing her innocence above all else.
Shanea’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving childhood innocence and protecting children from societal pressures to grow up too quickly. In a society driven by social media and external influences, it is crucial for parents to prioritize their children’s well-being and happiness, allowing them to engage in activities that bring them joy and foster a sense of magic and wonder. By advocating for her daughter’s happiness and innocence, Shanea sets an example for other parents to follow, emphasizing the value of nurturing a child’s sense of wonder and joy in a fast-paced world.
