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Boys Have Feelings Too
As a parent, I want to ensure my son grows up in a world where he feels comfortable expressing his emotions. Recently, during a trip to a charming bookstore in New York City, I came across a delightful notebook adorned with an owl that I knew he would adore. However, when I ventured into the children’s section, all I found were glittery pink and purple diaries that I knew he wouldn’t want to touch.
It’s unfortunate that pink and glitter instantly scream “girl” due to the way products are marketed. I remember when my son, Ryan, was three and proudly declared his love for pink. We encouraged him, even when he asked for a pink Brachiosaurus cake for his birthday. But as he transitioned into kindergarten, he suddenly shied away from wearing a pink shirt, insisting, “That’s not true” when I reminded him of his favorite cake.
The truth is, the diaries I saw were designed for girls, promoting the idea that expressing feelings through writing is not for boys. What message does that send to our children? It subtly suggests that boys should keep their feelings to themselves, while girls are free to express theirs.
Recently, I was thrilled to hear that Target would be removing gender-based signage in sections like toys and bedding. This move is a significant step toward dismantling outdated marketing stereotypes. It allows all children, regardless of gender, to explore a broader range of interests. If a boy wants to play with dolls or write in a diary, he shouldn’t be made to feel like he’s stepping outside societal norms.
As an adult, I can easily find a journal that suits my taste without worrying about gender labels. So why should our kids be boxed into these narrow categories? I want to teach Ryan that it’s perfectly fine to jot down his feelings, dreams, and frustrations. But how many sparkly pink journals must he encounter before he feels pressure to conform? When will he feel compelled to suppress his true self to fit in with what society expects?
It’s time for all brands that cater to children to reconsider the hidden messages their products convey. No child should ever feel out of place or judged for their choice of toys or hobbies. For more insights on this topic, check out this blog post on home insemination kits, or visit resources like CCRM IVF for additional guidance on pregnancy.
In summary, we must encourage our children to embrace their emotions without being confined by gender stereotypes. Let’s create an environment where boys feel just as free as girls to express their feelings.