Advice About Breaking Character:

[Patches]

Now I would never intentionally break character but I have so many issues with kids talking about my knees
or actually reaching, yes I said reaching, INTO my tail the second I look away.
Last week, I had a child at an event literally shove her hand into my tail and started screaming about how I wasn't real.
I kinda shrugged my shoulders and was like, "Haha, you got me," and then gave them some spiel
about how when they grow up they can achieve anything as long as they set their minds to it.
Now I know, I cannot be the only mermaid that has this happen.

So I guess my question is, how do you deal with a child literally reaching into your tail as soon as you look away?
I know after having done a number of gigs over the past couple years that I should know an answer to this but I just don't?
I'm probably over analyzing this, but it's been bothering me since it happened. =/

[Mermaid Danielle]

OMG that is horrifying!

Personally, I wouldn't have bothered with the whole "you got me and grow up to be anything" bit, but would have put huge emphasis on why that kid's actions were inappropriate, and that all living creatures have "no touching" zones and should never be touched anywhere without permission. But I'm really big on personal space and physical harassment- so that is just me.

I'm really sorry that this happened to you. When I've worked events, I try to have my back to a wall so no one can come up behind me, and I keep my hands in my lap in order to redirect inappropriate hands. Obviously this isn't a fix all, as like you said, you just looked away for a second, but for me it helps.

I guess my next question would be is if you are more bothered by the inappropriate contact or the irrefutable break of character?

If it's the break of character thing, maybe try a net or something over the top of your tail? It wouldn't prevent it, but may discourage it or warn you to it happening.

If it's the contact thing, maybe making it clear to kids where they are permitted to touch you would help. Personally, when I introduce myself and the event rules, I do "I'm always up for a hug, and if you want to touch my tail, please touch here by the fluke". The parents get the reason and keep an eye out, and the kids usually listen to directions.

Hope this helps!

Best wishes!

[Mermaid Holly]

Wow, that really sucks. If I were you, I would be sure to tell the kids that "my scales are sensitive and it really hurts if you touch them too roughly" and encourage touching more around the fluke. Also, wearing a scarf or net around your waist could help. Again, really sorry that happened, and hope this helps.

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