Being a boy mom can be a whirlwind of adventure and chaos, but it’s also incredibly rewarding! When I found out that I was having a son, I felt terrified. I’m a feminine person, and by the time I was pregnant with Jason, Laura was almost 6 years old. I feared that I had no idea what I was doing with a boy. Little did I know that Jason is one of the biggest joys in my life. He brings so much kindness and fun wherever he goes. Jason leaves everywhere a happier place.
Here are some fun ways to enhance your experience as a boy mom:
1. Embrace the Outdoors:
Boys often have boundless energy. Organize outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, or exploring nature parks. Not only will this burn off some of that energy, but it will also create lasting memories. When Jason was small, I loved taking him on walks. Being outside and talking about everything was the best. We especially loved looking at fall and Halloween decorations. When he received a bike, I would go with him. We would also go to the playground.
2. Get Creative with Playtime:
Engage in imaginative play. Build forts, create treasure hunts, or stage epic LEGO battles. Let your boys lead the narrative and join in on the fun. Jason had a love for Legos that lasted for about ten years. I didn’t always enjoy the mess, but often reminded myself that this stage wouldn’t last forever. Unfortunately, I was correct. Luckily, I cherished his Lego talk and love for the Lego store. These are cherished memories. Every so often, I hear him in his room digging in his huge bin of Legos.
3. Share Your Hobbies:
Introduce your boys to your interests. Whether it’s cooking, gardening, painting, or playing an instrument, sharing your passions can lead to quality bonding time. Jason and I bond over bird-watching. Cerebral palsy doesn’t interfere with this hobby. We have a birdhouse with a camera and we see what birds come visit. I also enjoy watching Jason play Fortnite and other video games. Jason and I share a love of the Catholic faith, Jesus and politics. We also like the same kind of movies and animals. Jason and I definitely have a similar sense of humor.
4. Read Together:
Develop a reading routine with exciting books that cater to their interests. From superheroes to space adventures, reading together can improve their language skills and spark their imagination. Jason surprisingly hated when I read to him when he was younger. Now he does enjoy reading before bed and we discuss the book later. I have a hidden talent of picking out books I believe he will enjoy and just put them in his room. He might resist but then reads it and likes it.
5. Science Experiments:
Boys love to explore and discover. Simple science experiments, like making a volcano or creating slime, can be both educational and entertaining. Jason would absolutely love mixing random things together, but he wasn’t a fan of cleaning it up. He doesn’t love science, but once in a while, he will want to try something new.
Boy mom activities that causes smiles
6. Sports and Physical Activities:
Encourage participation in sports or physical activities they enjoy. Whether it’s soccer, swimming, or martial arts, sports can teach teamwork, discipline, and the value of staying active. We encourage Jason to try all different sports and activities. He likes being active and running around. We like to watch baseball and he quizzes me on the teams.
7. Foster Friendships:
Help your boys build strong friendships by organizing playdates and encouraging social interactions. Friendships play a crucial role in their emotional development. Jason has an abundance of friends ever since he was in preschool. His friendly attitude and kindness seems to attract friends. I encourage friends to come over and they seem to enjoy coming over. His friends don’t seem to have any problem with me having cerebral palsy.
8. Cooking and Baking Together:
Get them involved in the kitchen. Let them help with simple tasks like measuring ingredients a or decorating cookies. Cooking together can be a fun and delicious way to bond. Jason is very good at using the Power XL. He’s not one to bake but he enjoys it when I bake.
9. Support Their Interests:
Listen to your boys and support their hobbies and interests, no matter how unique they may be. Whether it’s collecting insects, playing video games, or building model cars, showing interest in their passions can strengthen your relationship. I definitely support everything he wants to do. It is great watching him explore all of his interests.
10. Create Traditions:
Establish family traditions as a boy mom that everyone can look forward to, whether it’s a weekly movie night, a monthly game night, or an annual camping trip. These traditions will create a sense of continuity and connection. We usually play video games after homework and watch movies on Friday nights.
Bonus Tip: Remember to Be Present:
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, make an effort to be fully present with your boys. Put away distractions and enjoy the precious moments you have together.
Enjoy the wild ride of being a boy mom! 🎉✨