A Lesson in Gender Equality for Parents

I have four children - all of which are boys. I feel very strongly that they, and other children, should be encouraged to be their own person, regardless of gender. The gender of a child should not determine the way we treat him, rather the individual needs of that child should provide the guidance we need. For example, if your boy enjoys cooking, don't discount this interest because that is a "woman's job." There are many great male chefs (some who make great money, too) and you may be discouraging your child from a livlihood that will bring him much joy.

I believe that I am practicing what I preach, because when I was pregnant with my twins, the doctor told me they were girls. I had about 8 ultrasounds and this is what she told me each time. The day of delivery - guess what? Two boys. This was not a problem for me, I hadn't gone out and bought cute little dresses, nor did I paint their room pink and do any other "girly" things. Therefore, I didn't have to make a mad dash to return items, nor did I have to repaint the room.

Furthermore, my husband and I do not have stereotypical roles in our household. We both share in household chores - he does the dishes and the grocery shopping, while I do the laundry. At the same time, I help with the outdoor work, such as landscaping, and I make repairs around the house. I believe that this modeling of non-stereotypical behavior helps to reinforce to my children that there are no pre-determined gender roles.