Now that we have the first Wisconsin snow behind us, it’s time to start “Making a List and Checking it Twice.” I don’t know about you, but for me, once November 1st hits Christmas music is fair game. I love planning and prepping for the holiday season. All of the excitement and joy in the air really does it for me.
This year, my oldest two already have pretty good lists started. Our son wants a pair of football gloves, football cards, and a new wrestling singlet. Our daughter is requesting a hair salon. Translation, she’s getting an old school caboodle (do you remember those) filled with makeup brushes, foam rollers, a brush, and hair accessories. Although I am super excited that they are forming little personalities and interests, I can’t help but think that their Christmas lists are so stereotypically gender specific. Our son’s is “all boy” and our daughter’s is “all girl.” There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. However, I do encourage our children to play a variety of games and make-believe without encouraging specific gender roles.
Having a boy and two girls helps to ensure that our kids are exposed to a variety of toys, We have dolls and barbies, cars, trucks, and trains. They play together and with it all. When our son was a baby and we were expecting his sister, we bought him a doll. Although he may not admit it, he loves that doll.
But here is the bigger question, WHY? Why not buy a boy a doll? What is the harm?
He can change a baby’s clothes and diaper, has shushed his baby and fed it. It sounds like he’s learning how to be a great dad someday.
On the other hand, the girls can swing a mean hammer and love to build and destroy train tracks. They are excellent engineers, inventors and love being triathletes.
I want my girls to grow up in a world where they view their future as not being bound by traditional female roles. I want them to see themselves as strong independent women.
I am so grateful that we have a variety of toys and TRY not to put too much of a gender label on types of toys.
This year as you are creating Christmas lists and shopping for the holiday season, I challenge you to see how you can incorporate a variety of toys/activities into your shopping/giving list. I think this is especially important if you do not have a mixed-gender home. Girl moms, do you have tools, vehicles, dinosaurs and sports gear for your girls? Boy moms, are you providing dolls, kitchen or household play toys and grooming and dress up toys for your boys? Think of the possibilities, the wonder, and the creativity you will be providing for your children today and in the future.
If you need help curating a Christmas list, head on over to my Instagram account (@tessa.karls) and pay attention to my stories. I will be sharing great deals on all types of toys for babies through school-age kids.
Happy Holidays. Let the merriment begin.
~ ♡ Tessa Karls
Family Photo Credit:
A great reminder!