All the issues regarding the acceptability of tattoos aside (I have to go to class soon and can’t rant), tattoos are not AVAILABLE to kids. These parents agonizing about “what if my little girl sees this and wants a tattoo?” You don’t have to worry about it until she’s eighteen.

Whereas eating disorders, low self-esteem, and all the other host of problems that can be caused by body-image issues, can easily manifest at any age. Quit worrying if your eight-year-old starts thinking she wants a tattoo when she grows up—start worrying if she starts thinking she needs to diet.

I understand the desire of a parent who doesn’t want their child tattooed (mine still aren’t thrilled), but when you look at a Barbie and your concern isn’t with the wholly unhealthy and impossible physical standard it creates, you have bigger problems. My parents would much rather see me get another tattoo than develop an eating disorder.