This Fifth Grader Should Teach Us All About Setting Boundaries

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Meet Mia, the fifth-grade sensation who’s taking social interactions to school with a no-nonsense list of rules for a boy named Liam who’s been bothering her. While many of us can recall moments of harassment without knowing how to react, Mia has stepped up with a clear and assertive guide on how she wants to be treated. And honestly, she might just be the life coach we didn’t know we needed.

A Twitter user named Jamie shared this delightful gem from a friend who teaches fifth grade. The list, penned by Mia, is a direct response to Liam, a boy who apparently lacks basic understanding of personal space and respect. We’re not entirely sure what Liam did to irk Mia, but her rules leave no room for misinterpretation.

The list features a stick figure of Liam, humorously depicted with oven-mitt hands, as he’s schooled with Mia’s “rules and regulations.” The first rule? “Do not touch my shoulder.” From there, it gets even better: “Don’t play games behind me,” which could mean a multitude of things, but none are flattering for Liam. Mia is adamant about her boundaries, detailing exactly what is unacceptable behavior— and we are here for it.

Mia goes on to instruct Liam not to speak to her unless it’s a “hello,” which she emphasizes will basically be never. She’s having none of his nonsense! She makes it clear she doesn’t want him to sit near her on the bus and reminds him that she’s “too young for a boyfriend.” The humor in her note doesn’t mask her serious undertone as she accuses him of ruining her day, and even gives him a little homework: “Reread this list 500 times.”

As the list wraps up, Mia warns Liam that if he doesn’t comply, she’ll have to call her dad, her mom’s friend, her “fake” mom, and even a “janator” (spelling aside, we can’t help but admire her assertiveness). She also mentions how his ongoing antics might land her in counseling, indicating she’s thought this through.

Bravo, Mia! At such a young age, she understands that she owes Liam nothing. Her confidence and clarity about her boundaries are inspiring. As someone who grew up trying to please everyone—especially boys—I find Mia’s rules incredibly refreshing. I wish I had her level of self-respect back then.

Now, as a parent, I’m raising my 9-year-old daughter to assert herself, especially as she navigates her own social hurdles. I want her to stand strong against any bullying, knowing that she deserves respect without having to appease anyone.

Sure, Mia’s tone may come across as stern, but when faced with a boy who doesn’t take the hint, she has every right to be unapologetically firm. It’s a lesson many adults still need to learn.

Wishing Mia all the best this school year! Hopefully, Liam gets the message loud and clear: she’s not interested, and he should step back. Girls have enough on their plates without having to tolerate unwanted attention. We should all encourage our daughters to be confident in establishing what’s acceptable behavior and what isn’t.

For more insights on navigating relationships and boundaries, check out this post on home insemination kits, which may offer some interesting perspectives as you look into family planning. And if you’re interested in artificial insemination options, visit Cryobaby, the experts in at-home kits. Additionally, for excellent resources on pregnancy and home insemination, head over to Progyny’s blog.

In summary, Mia’s assertiveness in setting boundaries serves as a powerful reminder that everyone deserves respect, no matter their age. Her approach to dealing with unwanted attention is both commendable and necessary in today’s world.

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