Are monogrammed items a bad idea for kids?
Our son has an "Engineer's Hat" with his name monogrammed on the front that he absolutely loves.
While we were vacationing, and visiting a museum, one of the museum docents approached him, was quite friendly, and called him by name, reading it off his hat. I didn't think anything of it, but then the docent continued, looking at me, and saying "you know, it's really dangerous for your kids to have their name monogrammed like that -- strangers can call them by name and give the kids a false sense of security. Don't let him wear that hat to school."
Of course, the situation was quite safe, but I can imagine that for older kids who might be doing more on their own, that some parents might think this is a serious issue.
As a counterpoint, having your name on your hat or backpack seems like a good idea so things don't get lost or misplaced at school.
Do you think I should be worried about sending my son to school wearing monogrammed items?
2 Answers
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This goes back to the " stranger awareness" topic with comments pro and con about " talking to strangers". School is hopefully a safe enough place to go with monogrammed items-- and its convenient. Also, when kids are with their parents, it should be safe to have monogrammed items. The grey area begins when children are separated or away from adults. And this can happen unintentionally. Kids are always vulnerable at these times ---- while shopping, playing in a park, at a museum, restaurant or amusement park -- or any other public venue. Being lured away by someone who knows a childs name can be extremely dangerous. Let that thought suffice for consideration.
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From what I've read, items (toys and clothing), should have the child's name INSIDE the item but not on the outside where a stranger can take advantage. You should even avoid clothing like football jerseys that have the child's last name on the back until they're old enough to have the heightened awareness of "I know that person" verses "that person just read my shirt." There are many places, lillianvernon.com comes to mind, that sell iron-on labels.
