Letters: Gangster rap's negativityand an alternative to day care

In response to the dialogue that has begun over the merits of stay-at-home parents versus day care, and music that parents let their children listen to, please allow me to weigh in.

Some parents have said they don't mind their children listening to Snoop Dogg, Soulja Boy, Akon and the like; some even listen with their children. But consider this—most parents wouldn't let their children watch pornography or spend time with someone who is violent. And yet, parents who knowingly allow their young children to listen to "gangster rap" are doing that—letting their kids spend time with people who glorify violence and the objectification of women.

Check the lyrics of people like those mentioned above. I hope you will not still feel that these messages are "no big deal" for kids to listen to.

Regarding the day-care issue:

I know couples who work different shifts in order to have a two-income family while allowing one parent to be with the children. Many parents have taken a work-from-home job, or a job that allows them to set their own hours.

Another letter writer suggested only "rich" people can afford to have one parent at home. Consider ways to cut corners: water instead of juice, a new toy as a treat instead of every time you go to the store, "like-new" clothes from garage sales, getting videos from the library for free—you get the idea. Don't forget the huge chunk of your salary that is spent on day care each month!

Staying at home with your kids doesn't mean you aren't contributing. By raising your kids to be productive members of society you are serving the wider community. Volunteering is also a great way to make a difference in our community. Being a stay-at-home parent doesn't mean you can never leave the house.

Stephanie La Torre

Crescent City