Things Every Boy Should Hear from His Mum
Raising my two sons was the most challenging, beautiful, and profound journey I have ever been on. I’ve learned so much from being a mother to boys. It has taught me patience, unconditional love, and how important it is to guide little souls into becoming kind, confident, and respectful men.
After seven years of seeing them grow and learning with them, sometimes feeling overwhelmed, I realized I had a responsibility that went beyond the basics. I want to share the values, lessons, and truths I think will help my boys navigate the complexities of life with strength and heart.
Here are the 10 precious things that I would like my boys to always carry.
1. Boys Do Cry and that’s More than Okay
Since my boys were babies, the unspoken rules of society have tried to confine them: don’t show any weakness, be tough. But I have made it very clear that crying is healthy and normal. Tears do not indicate weakness. They are a way for people to heal and process their feelings.
My sons need to understand that it is brave to be vulnerable and to express their feelings honestly. Even the strongest men can cry, whether it’s from frustration, sadness, or joy. They will be able to build deeper connections with others if they are open about their emotions. This can help them avoid anxiety and anger in later life.
Teaching boys emotional literacy can help dismantle toxic masculinity and pave the way to healthier relationships and mental well-being.
2. Manners Never Go Out of Style
When my sons were first learning to speak, they learned “please” and then “thank you”. They are powerful, but simple. They show respect and gratitude and open doors in life.
It shows kindness and consideration when a child can say “excuse me” or hold a door for another. This is about showing others that they are human and making the world more friendly. They become a part of their personality and influence how others see them.
My boys are learning that good manners are not only about following rules, but also about showing genuine kindness and appreciation. A polite adult can open up more opportunities and foster deeper relationships.
3. It’s Always in Style to Be a Gentleman
Others might think chivalry has died, but I disagree. Respect is the key to being a gentleman. It’s how you treat people, whether they are your family members, friends, or strangers.
I don’t want my sons “opening doors” only for girls. I expect them to treat everyone with respect. Respect is listening carefully, speaking gently, and being considerate. Standing up for other people and treating them with dignity is what respect means.
In today’s society, when respect and empathy are on the decline, this value is even more important. To teach my sons how to be gentlemen will make them leaders in fairness and kindness.
4. You Reap What You Sow
The biggest truths in life are usually the simplest. I want my sons to know that their actions are important. They earn respect and trust when they are honest, kind, nd and hardworking. People are pushed away by people who are unkind or dishonest.
It is not only important for children, but also for adults. Early seeds planted by children can have a lasting impact on their lives. They will influence the friends they make, the opportunities they receive, and how they view themselves.
I tell my sons their choices are powerful, even if they’re young. It’s not about your size, but what you do in the world that makes you a good human being.
5. Your Happiness is My Happiness
As a mom, I would love nothing more than to watch my sons thrive and be happy. Their smiles brighten my day, and I see their joy as a reflection of the love and support that they receive.
I encourage my children to do what they love, whether it’s reading, drawing, playing sports, or simply daydreaming. I want to let them know it’s okay for them to find happiness their way.
Life is not always easy. There will be challenges. I want to remind them of the importance of their happiness and that they deserve to feel fulfilled.
6. The Priceless Value of Kindness
As a mother, one of my most important tasks is to teach kindness. Kindness is easy to do. It could be as simple as sharing a toy with a child, comforting a pal, or simply saying something nice.
One small act of kindness can make someone’s day. Kindness is more than just a good deed. It builds character. Kindness builds character and shows empathy.
I want my sons to know that kindness is more valuable than money. This is a legacy that they can take with them wherever they go.
7. Always Hug Your Mother
As boys age, they may become more hesitant to show affection. But I want them to be able to hug me without hesitation, even in the presence of their friends. I want my sons to know that loving is powerful and beautiful, not something to be embarrassed about.
Children feel loved and secure when they receive physical affection. These hugs will help them remember that they are loved and valued throughout their life.
These simple embraces have brought comfort to us both. My boys should never be afraid to show their love.
8. Cooking is for Everyone
The kitchen is shared by all members of our family. I want my boys to understand that cooking is not “women’s work” or a chore, but a creative and fun skill that anyone can learn.
As soon as my children are old enough to help me prepare meals, I teach them about nutrition, ingredients, and recipes. This is a great way to teach children a useful life skill and also build relationships, show love, and develop independence.
It’s also a great feeling to get the “best” bits of a meal! My boys are also better prepared for adulthood by learning to cook. It helps them break down gender stereotypes.
9. Superheroes are not Super-strong.
It’s easy for my sons to think that strength is only about fighting or having physical power. Real strength is a matter of character.
I want my sons to have a strong mind and be resilient. They should stand up for the right thing, even when things are hard. To have strong morals, be loyal, listen with eempathyand be a good friend.
Strength comes from kindness, patience, and perseverance, not just muscle. This will help prepare them to face real challenges and become men who inspire respect and admiration.
10. True Friendship is Like Gems
Rare are the good friends. These are the friends who will celebrate your achievements, support you in times of difficulty, and accept you as you are.
I encourage my sons to invest in their friendships with kindness and honesty. Friendships are important for social development, comfort, and creating happy memories.
True friendship cannot be replaced by any amount of toys, games, or trophies. I want my boys to make and keep friends who will enrich their lives, and they will return the favor.
Conclusion
Raising boys can be a journey of wonder, laughter, and sometimes chaos. You are raising some of the most amazing souls – boys who will love fiercely, have integrity, and shape the future.
Remind yourself to love them with the same passion. Your patience, guidance, and example will have a lasting effect far beyond childhood.
Accept every moment that is messy, loud, and loving. Lessons taught today will create strong, kind, and happy men in the future.
