Maybe it’s because I’m a mom of a boy. Maybe it’s because I consider it a chore to put on makeup. Or maybe it’s because I had to sneak lipstick out of the house when I was 11 because my mom said I was too young to wear it. Whatever the case, an article in today’s New York Times inspired by the trend in little girl makeover/beauty theme parties really bugs me. Here’s just a snippet:

But today, cosmetic companies and retailers increasingly aim their sophisticated products and service packages squarely at 6- to 9-year-olds, who are being transformed into savvy beauty consumers before they’re out of elementary school.

It’s one thing to fool around with fake press-on nails and play dress up with a trunk full of princess costumes, but are there really moms out there who allow — and encourage — their first-grade daughters to wear makeup beyond the occasional theme birthday party? There must be, if a whole new target market has emerged.

I guess it’s in the same vein as taking your little girl to get her hair highlighted or her belly button pierced (ick!). The next time you’re at the mall, take a look at the kids swearing as they walk around in packs with their designer handbags, cellphones, and provocative T-shirts — then look closely at their faces, and realize they’re the same age you were when you still believed in the Tooth Fairy.

Moms, what do you think? Am I being a prude or are kids (especially girls) growing up too fast?