I have a question about bathing suits.

[GulfCoast66]

44. Goodness we Americans can be an uptight bunch.

Not discounting the folks sincere concern for their children, as silly as I see it. They truly felt concerned. I get it.

But it does not harm a child to see some skin at a pool or a beach.

We were in Iceland a while back and took a tour that went to a natural volcanic heated pool. Not the Blue Lagoon.

One of the rules in Iceland is that you have to shower naked in an open shower and you must use soap on your hair, genitals and feet. Well, the showers don’t have to be open but at most places they are. Then you put on your swimsuit and soak in the water. Mind you the showers are separated by gender. Not universal nakedness.

I was shocked that several Americans in the group decided to forego the pool due to the embarrassment of being naked in front of others of their same sex. The Icelanders find it very humorous. And they say lots of Brits are the same way.

Thinking we can diminish the natural sex drive that is soon to come for children(or for many 12 year olds already exists) by keeping their eyes innocent is folly. In fact, it can be, and in my case was counterproductive. I spent my young teen years horribly bothered by my feelings. Product of an Evangelical upbringing. Luckily by 19 that wore off.

If it is a real problem then the community needs to pass new rules.

Another Irony: no speedos. In many pools in France, at least 2 we visited, speedos are required as they are considered proper swim wear. Trunks were considered shorts. And this was in Normandy, hardly the most libertine region of France.