I am always quite surprised at the people I meet where the Dad (and sometimes the Mum) really do act differently around their boy or girl children. And/or have different expectations of them. For example, their little boy 'won't be doing' ballet wheras their girls do.
My T did one year of ballet at 4 years old. He enjoyed it but a) wasn't enthralled by it like he was soccer, swimming or cricket and b) wasn't particularly gifted at it! Probably I will give W a year as well, if funds permit. He loves dancing so think he will enjoy it.
The prompt for this post was the play in our household this morning ....
E feeding his babies their bottle and breakfast (it was sushi for breakfast, mind you!)
E holding his baby just like I hold S!
W changing baby's nappy.
He even said "Bum up" to the baby as that is what I explain to S before I do it, so he doesn't get a fright.
Cuddling their dolls.
Okay, so they don't get much of a work out at home - but a) we have dolls in the house and b) when they do come out for a play they are much enjoyed.
So, no I am not so much of an anarchist to 'hide' the gender of my children so that people don't treat them differently (!) but I do think a balance is important.
My personal goal/mission - is to raise boys who are great husbands and fathers. I hope that by providing them with experiences that teach them that loving babies and feeding/nurturing them is just as much their role as anyone elses. Let's see how I go!
Labels: gender, parenting, values
