We read A LOT of feminist children’s books in my home… and play games such as feminist bingo and feminist memory. (Break out the seltzer, kids, it’s going to be a wild Friday night!)
And you know what? It works.
Here are some ways this content presents in parenting my three year old:
Reading a book that highlighted the successes and struggles of iconic women throughout history, we came across Malala Yousafzai. My daughter became very inquisitive and focused on how someone thought it was okay to use violence when all Malala wanted was for girls to go to school. “That’s not fair, Mama. Or kind. Why would they want girls to not go to school?”
I watched her contemplate why she is able to go to school while many young girls are not.
“Mama, why are kings always men? Like, they are always men? That’s not fair.” So, we unpacked it a bit. In the end, we decided to create a new word - an inclusive word - for the leader of a land. (And then I joyfully pretended to be the “Star” of the “Stardom!”)
“Mama, I keep hearing about heels. What are they?” After I explained what heels were and explored the pros and cons of them, she wondered aloud why it is mostly womxn who wear them. “That’s a fantastic question…,” I began.
As I see her navigate the world, my hope is to be her anchor. I strive to be a safe space where she can unpack and sort these observations and experiences.
Here’s what I’ve learned so far:
It takes practice to learn how to adapt very complex topics into age-appropriate conversations.
It takes intention to integrate our values into our parenting.
It takes trust to allow our children the space to develop their own views.
It is undoubtedly worth it.
I’ll leave you with a few prompts to consider asking yourself:
What are my most important values?
How do I embody those values in all that I do?
Are there areas where I’d like to integrate my values more?
Big love,
Bridget
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