Children & NaturismWhenever non-naturists discuss the naturist lifestyle, one question that inevitably comes up is “What about the children?” Many people might be surprised to learn that children are included in many naturist events and that they regularly accompany their parents to their favorite naturist clubs and resorts. Those who are not familiar with naturism might also be surprised to find out about parents who conscientiously raise their children in the naturist lifestyle within their own homes. Although the idea of family nudity is an accepted part of everyday life among many naturists, it can be a contentious issue for others. For example, private swims at community pools organized by naturist groups have been cancelled due to public outcry, often amid accusations of child abuse. Over the years, other family-friendly events organized at rented spaces by naturist groups have been cancelled as well, often with no clear reason given by a host agency. Naturist parents might even feel reluctant to discuss their way of life to friends and relatives out of fear of becoming the subject of investigation by their local child protective services agency.
Many non-naturists, including social workers and law enforcement officials, have at times viewed parents who choose to raise their children in the naturist lifestyle with suspicion. Yet what most of these individuals fail to recognize is that naturist parents are as devoted to their children as any parents and just as concerned for their well-being. Furthermore, many of these widely-held assumptions regarding children and nudity are not based on informed legal interpretation or proven scientific facts. However, studies conducted over a period of decades confirm that children raised in a naturist environment are not harmed from their experiences. In fact, there have been a number of social and psychological studies that suggest the exact opposite, citing a number of benefits. The following are some notable examples.
These compelling studies confirm what naturists have known for years. For them, the sights and sounds of children playing at family homes and local naturist clubs are both familiar and welcome. These children and their parents are especially important to the Federation of Canadian Naturists and we advocate on their behalf through our outreach and education, as well as legal advocacy. We carry out this work in many ways, including distributing educational information, taking part in media interviews and supporting court cases in defense of naturism. We also participate in provincial and federal-level government hearings. Through these and other efforts, the Federation of Canadian Naturists is committed to uphold the rights of naturist families and ensure that the sights and sounds of children playing will continue to be a part of our naturist heritage.
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