Most people take one look at our big family and see our son, Brody, surrounded by four little sisters. If I had a dime, for every time someone told me, “poor Brody,” I could afford to have ten more kids.
You have no idea how bad my son wants a baby brother. I get anxious and nervous every time I have to tell him he is having another baby sister. My fear is that I am just going to do disappoint him. So far, each time, he exclaims “another sister,” followed by a long, dramatic groan. But when his sisters are finally born, he happily welcomes that cute baby sis into his loving arms.
My brother is also the only boy among three sisters, and can relate to Brody’s current situation. I recently asked my brother for his perspective on how being an only boy shaped him as an adult. He brought some valuable insight and a great perspective to this post that I will share later.
While you may look at an only boy and feel sorry for them, I’m here to tell you why you shouldn’t.
He is a Good Friend To Everyone
Most boys struggle with making friends with girls because of the obvious gender differences. But a boy, raised among girls, knows how to be friends with both boys AND girls.
Brody makes friends with everyone he meets. At eight years old, one of the biggest problem he has is how many girls in his class have a crush on him. When I first overheard this conversation with his sister, the proud mom in me went, “well duh, who wouldn’t?!” It is hard not to love a boy that shows kindness and respect (and a great sense of humor, I should add) to everyone around him.
He Can Think Independently
In a house full of girls, we are buried in baby dolls, barbies, princess dresses, and finger nail polish. There are more than plenty of times that he has been asked to play along. Sometimes he will feel like he has to (my brother would probably agree here) but a lot of the time, he plays contently by himself.
To no surprise, recent studies have shown that young girls do more chores than young boys. But in our house, everyone is expected to help with dishes, laundry, and cleaning. Because of this, Brody is growing up viewing men, women, and their chores as equal contributions to a household. I’m determined to raise kids that push back against societal norms!
He Will View Relationships with Girls Differently
I have a good relationship with my brother and I truly respect the man that he is. So while creating this post, I called him and asked for his input.
My brother grew up playing football and admitted that he had a hard time being friends with quite a few boys on his team because of the typical locker room talk. He couldn’t participate in the objectification of women because of the respect he had for his sisters.
Something I hadn’t thought about with my own son. But it made total sense (and made me respect my only brother even more.)
My brother is also very patient and understanding when it comes to women and their emotions. Which makes him the perfect uncle to all of my girls and a great role model for Brody!
Oh, The Husband He Will Become
I definitely don’t want to rush my son’s childhood. But I know, deep down, that my only son is going to make an incredible husband someday. Being the oldest and having extensive experience with being around girls and helping with babies means he’s really good at it. He certainly isn’t afraid to jump in when I need him.
His sisters depend on him for protection, support, love, acceptance, and friendship. Some of the best qualities to have and behaviors to model for others. He makes me so proud!
Trust Me, He Loves Being an Only Boy (Most Days)
When I asked my son what his thoughts were on being an only boy, he said, ” it is not bad most of the time, unless they are arguing with me.”
But more importantly, if you really knew my son, you would know there is nothing to feel sorry for. To see him fulfill his role of being a big brother so effortlessly and with such enthusiasm, melts my heart on a daily basis.
So next time you see a boy, surrounded by a bunch of sisters, remind him of how lucky he really is!
Don’t forget to share this with your friends!
3 Comments
I LOVE this! Such an amazing perspective. It’s so easy for your brain to jump to the conclusion “poor boy”, but you make so many good points about the person and man that he’s going to become. Being a newer mom, this actually made me feel sort of emotional lol! I can honestly say that I’ll think twice about ever thinking “poor boy” again. It really is a blessing for a young boy to grow up this way. Thanks so much for sharing. You have such beautiful children!
I think he is so lucky to have so many sisters and to be able to relate better to girls because of it! I’m sure he he has moments where it’s hard, but sounds like he has adjusted so well and just loves his sisters! That’s so good!
Love this perspective!! I’ve always felt that way. As a teacher, I’ve seen many families pass through my classroom, and the boys with sisters are almost always more well-rounded and kind. Brody is lucky!!