Understanding Boys
-
Keeping your son safe on the party scene
Understanding BoysAs your son enters his teenage years, parties and social events become part of the landscape. It’s an exciting time, but also one where safety needs to stay front of mind. So how can you help your child enjoy these experiences while staying protected? Hosting a Party? Plan Ahead. If you’re throwing a party, register […]
-
Helping our boys feel less alone
Understanding BoysLoneliness is quietly on the rise for boys, but there’s good news – parents can make a real difference by helping strengthen the “thread” of connection with their sons. In a chat with Dr Ray Swann and Daniel Petre, author of Father Time: Making Time for Your Children, they talked about the invisible thread that […]
-
Helping Boys Build Real Connections
Understanding BoysAs parents, we all want our boys to grow into confident, kind and connected young men. But today’s world can make that tough. With influencers like Andrew Tate dominating social media, and easy access to online content that promotes unhealthy ideas about manhood, many boys are left thinking they need to be tough, distant, or […]
-
Why Sleep Matters for Your Son
Understanding BoysSleep isn’t just rest, it’s essential for your son’s growing body and mind. While he’s asleep, his brain is busy building memories, repairing tissues, and making important hormones. Without enough sleep, he may struggle with mood swings, poor concentration, irritability, and even increased anxiety or depression. Teen boys need about 9 – 10 hours of […]
-
Helping your son to open up – Guidance for parents
Understanding BoysAs parents, we all want our children to grow up healthy, happy, and emotionally balanced. However, many boys often face challenges when it comes to expressing their emotions. Society’s traditional expectations of masculinity can sometimes make it difficult for them to feel comfortable talking about their feelings. This is why it’s crucial to create an […]
-
Helping your son thrive
Understanding BoysSix simple ways to motivate your son Setting goals can help school aged boys develop focus, confidence, and a sense of direction. Boys particularly benefit from goal setting as it gives them a tangible milestone to track their progress. Dr. William Pollack, Harvard Medical School psychologist and author of Real Boys suggests that ‘Boys often […]
-
How to create stronger bonds with your son
Understanding BoysEffective and positive communication with your son is one of the most powerful tools in your parenting toolkit. As boys grow, their thoughts, emotions, and experiences evolve, making regular, open communication crucial for staying connected. Here’s why it matters: It builds trust. When your son feels heard, he knows he can trust you with his […]
-
Why Mums are a big deal for boys
Understanding BoysBeing a mum to a growing boy is a wild ride, and an important one. From a young age you’re the MVP in shaping your son’s life. Here’s just a few reasons why: Emotional Lifeline Whether he’s 5 or 15, your hugs and words of wisdom are what make him feel safe and secure. Role Model […]
-
Navigating peer pressure and friendships
Understanding BoysAs boys in their early teens start to form their own identities, friendships become a crucial part of their development. However, this age also brings the challenge of peer pressure, which can sometimes push boys to make choices they wouldn’t otherwise make. As a parent, your guidance is key to helping your son navigate these […]
-
The healthy habit of reading
Understanding Boys by Zoe PictonRoad tripping with the family can be fun.