Circus Talk

[Casey McGowan]

I have a four year old niece. She recently asked about going to see Ringling Bros Circus, and I don't want to take her because of their known abuse of animals. How do I explain that to her without freaking her out?

[Joanne Pentangelo]

Another tough issue! If I were talking to my own four year old, I would say that I would rather do something else, I'm not happy to see animals in the circus, I don't think they are happy performing there. Then suggest an alternative, like a good zoological park, where she can see animals in more natural habitats. Maybe you can take her to see a movie about animals instead? I don't think you will freak out a four year old by telling them you object to the circus!

[Elyse Orecchio]

I'm interested in this one, too. I have a 4 year old too. What if it were his school taking him on a circus trip, and the whole class was going? I don't want to be the "freak" mom. If I kept him from going, his teacher would probably roll her eyes at me. So my question is, how do you suggest parents approach teachers? Also, is it worth it to keep a child from enjoying a trip with his class?

[Sheryl]

I certainly would keep my child home from a class trip to the circus! I think I would try to present information to the teacher to help him or her change their mind about the trip...and while it might be too late for the scheduled trip, hopefully they wouldn't schedule future ones. I don't think my son would want to go on the trip because we have talked about the circus...I bet yours wouldn't either!

[Joanne Pentangelo]

You know Elyse, As I've gotten older, I don't really care if a teacher rolls her eyes at me! Frankly, I would not let my four year old go on a class trip to the circus, not only because it's the circus, but because I think that's a complicated trip for a four year old, and unless I were chaperoning, I wouldn't let mine go. If you feel uncomfortable having your child attend the circus then they probably shouldn't attend. I would plan a great Mommy & Me day and do something you're happy to share with your child!

[Joanne Pentangelo]

clarifying here: Unless I were chaperoning a complicated trip for my four year old's class, I wouldn't let my child go--this is meant for ALL trips, not necessarily the circus!