Parenting 101 - The clothing battle

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOTV) - No matter how old your kids are there seems to be a constant battle between parents and kids clothing choices. It starts as a toddler when kids refuse to wear certain things or like to wear the same thing each day, then it progresses to young kids who want to pick out their own clothes and don't event get parents of teens started on the topic.

Maranda gathered questions from her Facebook fans and sat down with Julia Van Den Bosch of Wedgwood Christian Services to get the answers.

1. What's the best way to handle things when our kids want to wear something we don't like or approve of?

There is a difference in things we don't like and things that are not appropriate. You don't always need to like your children's clothing choices. As long as it is appropriate and clean, it's okay. If the clothing goes against your family's values and rules, that is a different situation. You need to teach you children that their clothing represents self respect and approach them in a caring and nurturing way.

2. Why does my four year old insist on wearing a tutu everyday?

Small children learn by imitating and pretending. A tutu makes a little girl happy and feel beautiful, so it's okay that she wears it. But, this is also a good time to start teaching your child about boundaries. It's fine to wear the tutu to the mall or grandma's house, but probably not school or church.

3. My daughter gets picked on because she doesn't wear the "big brands," but we can't afford designer clothing. Any advice?

Kids can be cruel and unfortunately clothing is something that can help children fit in. There are tons of garage sales, thrift shops and second had stores that offer name brand clothing at discount prices. If your child feels the need to wear these types of clothing, scout out the discount stores for the best deals.

4. Should I be worried if my teenager starts dressing differently or stops caring about how they look?

If it is just their appearance and they are still positive and interested in the same activities, let it go. It is most likely just a developmental thing and a way of them fitting in with their peers. If on the other hand their attitude changes and they seem distant, this could be a sign of depression or substance abuse.

5. How do I get my teen to realize that baggy pants and untied shoes give the impression that he's lazy and doesn't care?

This is most likely just your child's way of making a statement. Approach this in a positive way by telling your child they are a smart, talented person and their clothing choices aren't reflecting this.

For more information and parenting advice visit www.wedgwood.org.