In a heartwarming move that challenges traditional gender norms, a California dad, Jake, has enthusiastically embraced his son Leo’s passion for makeup. Leo has been experimenting with makeovers on dolls and family members for years, so when he asked his dad if he could try his hand at doing Jake’s makeup, the answer was a resounding yes. “Why would I say no? It brings him so much joy,” Jake shared on the blog, Family Colors.
Jake and his partner, Anna, created the blog in 2011 to document their journey parenting their 9-year-old son, who expresses his gender in ways that might not align with societal expectations. “Children come to us with their true selves intact. It’s just as fundamental as their hair color or handedness,” Anna explained in an interview with Parenting Today. “As parents, we must recognize that our child’s identity and expression might differ from their assigned gender at birth. It’s essential to be receptive to who they tell us they are.”
Connecting Through Makeup
Spending quality time with Leo while he does Jake’s makeup is a powerful way for them to connect. “When Leo applies my makeup, I feel like I’m sharing in something that he loves. As we discuss which colors complement my skin tone, I’m reinforcing that his thoughts and preferences are important to me,” Jake wrote. “This experience is like playing catch; it’s not just about the activity itself but the bond we build while doing it. It’s crucial to encourage our children to engage with us and enjoy shared moments.”
Jake fondly recalls playing with hair and makeup as a child alongside his siblings, and it seems Leo is having just as much fun. “He delights in making me look silly or glamorous—it really cracks him up. Sometimes he’s serious, aiming for a polished look, while other times, it resembles a playful face painting session. Regardless, he loves it, and I’m thrilled to be involved in something that brings him such happiness,” he remarked.
A Community of Support
The blog has become a vital resource, attracting over a million readers seeking connection and understanding. “We decided to share our journey publicly because raising a child who defies gender norms can feel isolating. I struggled to find communities or resources online, so I started this blog hoping to reach others like us,” Anna said. “Now, we feel a sense of belonging and support from countless families.”
While they’ve faced criticism both online and offline, Jake and Anna remain undeterred. “We’ve come to terms with the fact that some individuals may not accept our family due to our child’s gender expression and our parenting choices. However, the love we receive from sharing our experiences far outweighs any negativity. Love always triumphs,” Anna concluded.
Further Reading
If you’re interested in more insights about parenting and family dynamics, check out our other blog posts at Intracervical Insemination. For authoritative information on at-home insemination, visit Make A Mom. Additionally, Facts About Fertility is an excellent resource for those navigating pregnancy and insemination journeys.
In summary, Jake’s willingness to let Leo express himself through makeup serves as a beautiful reminder of the importance of acceptance and shared experiences in parenting. Emphasizing love and understanding, this family is paving the way for more inclusive conversations around gender expression.