Is your child dressing too provocatively?

This story was originally titled "What's your child's dress code?" in the February 2006 issue. Subscribe to Canadian Living today and never miss an issue!

Worried that your tween looks too old too young? You're not alone. In a recent poll by Ipsos North America for childrenswear company Healthtex Inc., 82 per cent of parents said kids are dressing inappropriately or too provocatively for their age.

Try these suggestions for setting style boundaries:

Share the rules
Establish clear guidelines regarding what your children can and can't wear and explain your reasons.

Know the code
Read up on the dress code policy at your children's school and explain it thoroughly to your kids.

Be tactful
Clothing affects children's selfesteem, so offer style suggestions rather than negative feedback. "That top is quite see-through. If I buy it for you, you'll have to wear something under it."

Let loose
Allow your child to be creative with her fashion choices as long as she's not overstepping the boundaries.

Need some tips on how to talk to your teen? You can find some expert advice here!