Updated: June 3, 2021
Originally Published: Jan. 6, 2015
- The Cartoon Train Phase. This is an adorable time when your little one becomes smitten with a certain cartoon train. You find yourself purchasing everything from DVDs to train sets, sippy cups, and even themed pajamas.
- The Superhero Stage. Just as lovable! You go on a shopping spree for superhero-themed bedsheets and costumes. Your kiddo prances down the stairs in a Spiderman suit, and you can’t resist snapping a pic for social media.
- The Lego Obsession. Your child is hooked on Legos, and you secretly enjoy it too. It feels good to see him engaged with something imaginative. Once he figures out how to assemble them without constant meltdowns, you can finally get some work done while he plays for hours.
- The Dinosaur and/or Pirate Era. You can’t help but buy every plastic dinosaur and pirate-themed item in sight. Your nights are filled with reading the countless dino or pirate books that you’ve amassed over six months.
- The Power Ranger Phase. No matter how much you promise yourself to avoid toy weapons, you find your child pretending to defeat villains in an overly-priced Power Ranger costume.
- The Fart Humor Phase. Every time your child lets one rip, he announces it like he just discovered a new planet. It’s hilarious… at least for him. Some boys never quite outgrow this phase.
- The Tiny Lego Stage. Big Legos are sooo yesterday. Now, it’s all about those intricate Lego sets with tiny pieces. If he can’t put them together himself, it’s a one-time purchase, and you’ll be rushing him through to the next phase.
- The Silly Names Phase. Your son discovers a treasure trove of euphemisms for his boy parts. Suddenly, it’s all about “junk,” “weiner,” and “dick.” And he just won’t stop!
- The Wet Hair Ritual. Each morning, your son insists on drenching his hair and styling it forward. You’ll find at least one back-to-school picture where he looks like Lloyd Christmas from Dumb and Dumber.
- The Fashion Dictatorship Phase. Gone are the days of variety. Your son declares a single pair of shorts or a specific shirt as his daily uniform. And basketball shoes? They must be worn, even if he’s never touched a basketball!
- The Facial Hair Awakening. Suddenly, your little boy starts resembling a mini Pedro Sanchez. You have to discuss shaving, but it’s hard to reconcile this new big kid with the baby you once held.
- The Cologne Craze. The silver lining? You can always track him down by following the trail of Axe body spray.
- The Shower Conundrum. You know what this phase entails—let’s just say it requires frequent reminders about proper hygiene.
- The Earbud Era. If he’s home, he’s got earbuds in. You can’t help but worry they might be fusing into his ears at this point!
- The “Everyone’s Uncool” Phase. Right now, you’re dealing with this phase. He’ll eventually realize that you’re not so bad, but in the meantime, he’s got his earbuds for company.
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In summary, boys go through a myriad of quirky and often humorous phases as they grow. From their early obsessions with cartoons and toys to their eventual teenage angst, each stage is filled with its own unique challenges and delightful moments. Embrace these changes, as they are a natural part of their development.