2023-08-16
Haven’t we all, at least once in our lives, heard of phrases like ‘Fighting like a man’ and ‘crying like a girl’, ‘Doll houses for her’ and ‘the toy cars for him’, or, perhaps, even used them ourselves! They sound quite harmless, and honestly, come to us almost naturally, after experiencing them being used by our parents and grandparents for all these years.
But, should they REALLY be this normalised?
Just one magnifying glass and a broader outlook later, one can notice how it has fit us all in boxes, basically since birth. And here’s why that’s problematic - because the initial growing years primarily build and hardwire a child’s core, and if they’re constantly being told to conform to the gender they were born with - it leads to emotional, individualistic, and personality confusion and complications as adults.
So how do YOU as a parent break this labeling-conforming cycle? The answer lies with Gender Neutral Parenting.
Table of Contents
1. Treating All Equally
2. Exposing Them to Gender Diversity
3. Beyond Pink and Blue
4. Allowing Emotional Authenticity
5. Creating a Safe Haven
6. Addressing Real-World Issues
7. Using Inclusive Pronouns
8 Being the Change
1. Treating All Equally
Imagine a world where skills, interests, and abilities are not restricted by gender. That's the world we want to create for our children. Treating all children equally, regardless of their gender, is the cornerstone of gender-neutral parenting. From chores to opportunities, everyone gets a fair chance. Let’s raise our kids without the ‘pink for girls, blue for boys’ rulebook.
2. Exposing Them to Gender Diversity
Children are naturally curious. Introduce them to stories of people who have defied gender norms. Share tales of courageous women in history and sensitive men in literature. Let them see that being themselves is more important than fitting into predefined roles.
3. Beyond Pink and Blue
Break free from the pink-blue color divide. The world is a canvas of vibrant colors, and your child should explore them all. Encourage them to choose what resonates with their personality, not their gender. Remember, a yellow room can inspire greatness just as much as a blue one can.
4. Allowing Emotional Authenticity
Suppressing emotions based on gender stereotypes can harm emotional development. Let your children express themselves authentically. Whether it's boys shedding tears or girls being assertive, these are steps towards balanced emotional growth.
5. Creating a Safe Haven
Home should be a refuge from societal pressures. Create a space where children feel safe to express their thoughts and interests. This will help them develop self-confidence and self-identity, unburdened by outside judgments.
6. Addressing Real-World Issues
Prepare your children for the real world. Discuss issues like bullying and sexism openly. Teach them to be empathetic and stand up for themselves and others, fostering a sense of responsibility.
7. Using Inclusive Pronouns
Language matters. Incorporate gender-neutral pronouns like 'they/them' when talking about unknown individuals. This small change contributes to a more inclusive society.
8. Being the Change
Children learn by example. Be conscious of your own biases and actions. Embrace hobbies and interests irrespective of traditional gender associations. Your actions will empower them to do the same.
Nurturing Gender Neutrality
In a world filled with preconceived notions about gender roles, raising children with a gender-neutral perspective is an act of empowerment. It helps them develop into confident, compassionate, and open-minded individuals who challenge stereotypes and embrace their true selves.
For more insights, tips, and discussions, make sure to follow @thecuriousbees on Instagram. We regularly share valuable content that can help you navigate the journey of raising confident and individualistic children while embracing a gender-neutral perspective.
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