Raising boys is an adventure full of energy, curiosity, and countless teachable moments. Each day brings a mix of laughter, endless questions, and moments that stretch your patience and your heart. Boys are naturally curious, often exploring the world around them with an intensity that sometimes feels like they’re on a mission to test every limit. As their mom, it’s a privilege to nurture their wild spirits while also teaching them kindness and respect. Through the ups and downs of parenting, faith can be a guiding light. Leaning on God and seeking wisdom in scripture helps me as I aim to raise boys who not only know God but who also understand the importance of integrity, love, and humility. Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when hi is old he will not depart from it.” This verse is a reminder that even though I don’t have all the answers, I can turn to God as I instill these values in my boys.
1. Energy is Endless
Boys come with boundless energy! From morning until night, they seem to be on the go, climbing, running, and exploring. My 7-year-old never sits still. He is constantly asking me to do things with him when he’s home. Finding positive ways to channel their energy, whether through sports, outdoor play, or crafts, has become essential. It’s a beautiful reminder of the zest they have for life, which can be exhausting and contagious!
2. Rough-and-Tumble Play is Normal
There’s something about boys that draws them to rough-and-tumble play. From wrestling on the floor to jumping off anything and everything, it never ceases. It’s not about aggression but about physical expression and learning their limits. Teaching them boundaries, respect, and self control through play is key. Knowing when to step in and when to let them explore on their own is a delicate balance, but it helps them grow. I’m especially thankful for Dads in this instance. There’s nothing like Dad strength when it comes to wrestling with their sons. As a mom, I get hurt or tired in a few minutes, but Dads can go for a long time.
3. Emotions Are Real and Important
There’s a misconception that boys are less emotional, but the truth is, they feel deeply. Teaching boys to express their emotions and giving them the tools to communicate what they feel can be transformative. This has been a battle with my oldest. Every emotion he expresses is loud! It can be hard to calm him down when he’s excited or frustrated. Whether it’s frustration, joy, or disappointment, it’s important to let them know that emotions are normal and that expressing them isn’t a sign of weakness but of strength.
4. Curiosity Fuels Learning
Boys are curious explorers. They love to take things apart, ask questions, and discover how things work. This curiosity can be a bit chaotic (and sometimes messy), but it’s also an incredible gift. My son literally asks me a million questions a day. Sometimes I know the answer, other times, we ask Alexa! Encouraging their curiosity with hands-on activities (board games, crafts, legos), or simply answering their endless questions helps them learn and grow with confidence.
5. Faith and Values Matter
Raising boys with a foundation in faith and strong values is one of the greatest gifts we can give them. Teaching them to love God, respect others, and act with integrity builds a foundation that will guide them throughout their lives. Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and learn not on your own understanding,” is a verse I often come back to, especially when I don’t have all the answers. Knowing that God is part of their journey brings me peace and hope for their future.
Raising boys is an incredible adventure—full of joy, challenges, and moments of pure love. Each of these lessons has helped shape me as much as it has shaped them. I’m grateful for every moment and excited to see the men they become!