Updated: February 5, 2021
Originally Published: September 21, 2015
I purchased a tiara for my 2-year-old son for the same reason I bought him the superhero shirt that caught his eye at the store. It mirrors my decision to get him the doll that his friend Mia has. It’s consistent with my efforts over the past month to build his collection of action figures from various online platforms. I bought him the tiara because he expressed a sincere interest in it, and at this age, it is crucial to foster his natural curiosity. He is at a stage where he can immerse himself in imaginative play, exploring the world with wonder.
The day I bought him the tiara was also when we went shoe shopping. While trying to get him to try on sneakers, he spotted the pink tiara on a nearby shelf. His face lit up as he described it as “pink,” “sparkly,” and “beautiful.” I handed it to him, and surprisingly, he settled down long enough for me to check if the sneakers fit—thankfully, they did. After completing our shopping, we left the store with both the sneakers and the tiara.
I am fortunate to live in a progressive area where friends and family embrace the idea of a boy wearing a tiara, collecting princesses, and favoring colors like pink and purple. It brings me joy to see him walk through the mall, proudly wearing his tiara, even if it eventually ends up on his grilled cheese sandwich.
However, let me be clear: if anyone had made a negative comment about his choice, I would have been ready to defend him fiercely (though I prefer gentle discourse over aggression). I am weary of the rigid gender stereotypes that children face from such a young age. It frustrates me that I felt the need to be cautious when he expressed admiration for the tiara or high-heeled shoes.
At this moment, he is like a blank canvas regarding gender norms. I want him to form his own ideas of beauty, untainted by societal expectations. I recognize that as he grows and interacts with peers, he may feel compelled to conform to traditional gender roles. I am unsure what his preferences will be in the future; I will certainly support him if he chooses more conventional interests. I understand the desire to fit in, and many children naturally align with traditional gender expressions. Eventually, he may lose interest in tiaras and princesses, as is common.
Yet, if he continues to embrace his fondness for pink and sparkly items despite societal pressure, I will wholeheartedly support him. My protective instincts will be fully activated if anyone dares to criticize him. For additional insights on related topics, you might find this article on intracervical insemination informative, and consider visiting Make a Mom for expert advice. For comprehensive information about pregnancy, the NIH offers valuable resources.
Summary
I purchased a tiara for my son to nurture his interests and creativity, challenging traditional gender stereotypes. Living in a supportive environment allows me to encourage his self-expression, whether he ultimately aligns with conventional gender norms or embraces his unique preferences.