DEAR ABBY: I have two children under the age of 4. When they address adults -- including baby sitters -- I have taught them to preface it with "Ms." or "Mr." and the person's first name. We consider it a form of respect, and although I realize that each parent has her (or his) own take on this, it has begun to bother me when their children address us by our first names. Am I making a big deal out of nothing? -- WONDERING IN LIVONIA, MICH.
DEAR WONDERING: As you point out, different families have different standards. Because you prefer to be called "Ms.," bring it not only to the attention of the child, but also to the child's parent, and your wishes should be respected.