Dear Abby: Grandfather is appalled at granddaughters wearing bikinis at swim parties

Dear Abby: I have two granddaughters and four grandsons. My granddaughters, ages 19 and 20, wear thong bikinis at family swim events in front of their dad, grandpa, uncles and cousins. I believe this is incredibly inappropriate.

I’m embarrassed and I don’t want to attend swim parties with the family anymore. I’ve told my son my feelings, and he said he leaves the dress code up to his wife. Should I just stay away from family swim parties?

— Appalled In Indiana

Dear Appalled: Since your son has passed the buck to his wife, explain to her that the bathing attire the “girls” are wearing to the family swim events embarrasses you so much that you are considering no longer attending.

Remember, however, that your granddaughters are both adults, and the decision about what they wear is up to them, not their mother. (If this were Europe, there would be no problem.) I hesitate, however, to advise you to skip these family get-togethers entirely because they are opportunities to bond, and I would hate to see you fall further into the generation gap.

What teens need to know about sex, drugs, AIDS and getting along with peers and parents is in “What Every Teen Should Know.” Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 (U.S. funds) to: Dear Abby, Teen Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (Shipping and handling are included in the price.)