Sir, - I am having an increasingly difficult time trying to teach my young children about love, relationships and sexuality. More and more "adult" shops are opening, not only in the city centre but also in the suburbs, and dubious magazines are appearing on the top shelves of even local newsagents.
Can anyone advise me how I can - or indeed, why I should have to - explain handcuffs, whips and black leather-studded clothing and assorted paraphernalia to a child who is already confused and frightened by what he hears on the news about crimes against children, rapes and murders?
Would it not be possible for these magazines to be displayed in grey, plastic envelopes with just the title visible, as is the practice in many British newsagents? And why can't the shops display their wares inside for those who wish to see them?
Childhood is such a short time. Does it really need to be compromised and infringed upon by the "adult" world? - Yours, etc., Maureen Levy,
Shelton Park, Dublin 12.