Let’s talk about what is real and relevant…to me. Thank you for indulging me.
I am just days away from giving birth to a baby boy. I have 3 girls, and thus, only girl raising experience here. Growing up, I always imagined myself a mom to boys, so the 3 girls was a bit different from my life plan, but life is usually different than we plan.
As I go about my “nesting” I have a lot of time to think. I am realizing that I really don’t know much about raising boys. Granted I was the third oldest of eleven kids and the last 5 were all boys, so I have had my fair share of diaper changing and baby sitting and comforting, but only the way a sister can give.
Being a Mom to a boy I would assume is different. I could go and get all the guru books on how to raise a boy, etc… but why? I can ask you my readers and friends the same question and get some awesome, real-life practical advice on this new adventure. So please…SHARE! What do I and my husband need to know about raising a boy? What is your sage wisdom on this topic that is so new to me? I don’t expect there to be a golden key, but I am open to learning from all your successes and even failures, if you are willing to share.
So, leave a comment and teach me, I am all ears!
I only have a few bits, of tips I have learned to (potentially) help.
1st remember every thing you give to them, can and will be used as a weapon to hit, push, smack, and injure in some way.
2nd everything…everything can be climbed and/or jumped on. this is includes but is not limited to things like, beds, slides, sisters, mothers, chairs, tables, furniture, and really anything is that is more than a few inches off the ground.
3rd, potty training is usually easier at first with boys. but, you will need to remind them that they can’t just “pee” any where they wish.
lastly, don’t let them fool you. boys need just as must cuddling and loving as girls do.
Great tips Tiffany! I have heard your #1 before, from my brother. You are a wise woman!
I’m the mom of 2 & stepmom of 8. 6 are boys, 1 is severely disabled. I am also an intructional assistant for our local school district. I work with kids all day! If there’s anything I can tell you about boys, it is that they are fond of disassembling things, they frequently lose critical items, and they come up with the most amusing reasons for things-whatever-that you will laugh despite yourself! They are a challenge and a blessing, and will always keep you on your toes! Oh! Don’t forget first aid training-and memorize the route to the ER. You’ll see the need! Practice smiling while saying “It’s only a little bump, honey.” while applying pressure with one hand and driving with the other. Boys are a thrilling, take your breath away, wild ride; whereas girls are a dainty ethereal little fairy with no volume control! LOL! Enjoy them, they are just so much fun, and like girls, each boy is different.
Leslie, I totally understand girls and VOLUME! I didn’t think my girls would be as loud, we’ll see if this boy matches. Thank you for such practical and humorous advice. I liked the “lose critical items” part, but probably won’t be laughing in the exact moment of that happening. I am impressed with your resume of “boy” experience. If you think of more…keep sharing!! 🙂