When I talk about childhood adultification, I am referring to the process in which children are prematurely exposed to behaviors, content, responsibilities, and aesthetic standards that belong to the adult world. This can happen, for example, through frequent use of makeup, wearing clothes that sexualize the body, participating in inappropriate conversations, using social media without supervision, or being assigned responsibilities that are not age-appropriate, such as caring for another child.

What are the harms of childhood adultification?

The consequences of childhood adultification can be broad and long-lasting: insecurity, low self-esteem, anxiety, difficulties in socialization, and even setbacks in academic performance. Moreover, premature exposure to social standards and pressures increases vulnerability to various forms of abuse.

Children need to be stimulated according to their stage of development. When important steps are skipped, we leave gaps that compromise the formation of adults who are confident and secure in themselves. When a child is encouraged to behave like an adult, they do not yet have the emotional resources to cope with the demands and pressures that come with it, creating a mismatch between their real maturity and social expectations.

How can we recognize that a child is going through adultification?

Some signs may indicate that a child is being prematurely exposed to the adult world:

• Excessive interest in physical appearance and aesthetic standards incompatible with their age; inappropriate clothing that unnecessarily exposes the body; insistence on using skincare products designed for adults, such as anti-wrinkle creams or products with anti-aging acids.
• Disproportionate concern with money and the future.
• Frequent use of adult slang and expressions.
• Constant comparison and competition with peers over school grades.
• Displaying sensual or romantic behaviors.
• Loss of interest in play and children’s games.
• Abrupt changes in behavior, such as taking on responsibilities beyond their capacity.
• Greater interest in spending time with much older friends or adult groups.

The role of parents and schools

Families and schools play a central role in preventing childhood adultification. We must create an environment where children live experiences that match their developmental stage, encouraging play, healthy social interaction, and respect for the natural stages of growth. Parents and educators should be guardians of childhood, filtering content and experiences to ensure they are age-appropriate, while fostering autonomy within safe boundaries.

Behaviors that may seem harmless but actually contribute to adultification

Some habits, although seemingly harmless, can contribute to premature adultification, such as allowing unrestricted access to social media, encouraging the use of beauty products intended for adults, using children as “mini influencers” without proper supervision, or exposing them to sexualized jokes and conversations.

Age-appropriate behaviors at each stage

Each stage of childhood brings important milestones for motor, cognitive, emotional, and social development. It is essential to respect these stages:

Up to 3 years: this is the phase of sensory and motor exploration. Children discover the world through their senses, learn to walk, talk, and interact in simple ways. Activities such as stacking games, music, contact with different textures, and free play are ideal. It is not appropriate to demand prolonged concentration or expect children to understand complex rules.

From 4 to 6 years: imagination and make-believe play take center stage. Stories, drawings, role-play, and symbolic games are essential. While children at this age can follow simple rules, they should not be pressured with rigorous academic performance or responsibilities typical of adults.

From 7 to 9 years: more structured cognitive skills begin to consolidate, allowing children to understand rules and solve simple problems. Team sports, board games, school projects, and more elaborate artistic activities are recommended. However, emotional maturity at this stage is not ready to handle social and aesthetic pressures typical of adolescence.

From 10 to 12 years: logical thinking and planning skills expand. Autonomy can be encouraged with small responsibilities, such as organizing school materials or helping with simple tasks. This is a good time to strengthen critical thinking and cooperation, but children should still not be exposed to adult content, unrealistic beauty standards, or behavioral expectations typical of adulthood.

How to help prevent childhood adultification

When noticing signs of adultification in a child, it is important to act carefully: talk to their guardians, suggest age-appropriate activities, offer healthy leisure alternatives, and pay attention to the digital content they are exposed to.

Dialogue is the most powerful tool. I always emphasize that preserving childhood is not about holding children back, but rather about protecting them and investing in their future. By guiding families and support networks respectfully, we can raise awareness of the importance of ensuring that children fully experience every stage of their development.

Ana Claudia Favano