Molding our sons into responsible men can either be seen as a perilous journey or an opportunity to grow as a human being. On national sons day 2022, every March 4 and September 28, we think about our boys and the legacy we leave behind as parents. More than that, we take the time to listen to our boys — to hear their dreams or fears and thoughts on changing the world. We all have a role to play. Men and women. Educators. Professionals at all levels.
History of National Sons Day
National Sons Day has taken on new meaning as we head into the third decade of the 21st century. The #metoo era is long overdue — and society can no longer overlook the importance of raising our boys with this in mind. The good news? A crucial national conversation has begun — finally.
Parents of sons today face challenges that seem so obvious — yet no one saw coming. Who could have predicted the stunning downfall of so many of America’s most famous and powerful men in so little time? The list of names sent shock waves through the world of entertainment, media, tech and politics. And no one knows where we’re headed next.
One thing’s for sure — it all starts with teaching (and modeling) respect.
Here’s lifestyle writer (and dad) Christopher Dale in a recent article for Motherly: “Parents of boys are in a precarious position, one where the rules of inter-gender engagement seem to be in constant flux. As society understandably amplifies the voices of accusers, we find ourselves raising the potentially accused.”
Accused and accusers. That’s a lot for our kids to handle. So how do moms and dads navigate these treacherous waters? There’s no simple answer. We’re in uncharted territory here — and this discussion needs to go on for as long as it takes. Preparing our boys for this will require a level of guidance and communication that our predecessors in parenthood could never have envisioned – and that we ourselves have yet to fully grasp.
Aside from that, men have struggled with a stereotype of showing strength without fear or compassion. Luckily, as society incorporates “emotional” equity in the workplace and at home, we’re all redefining what it means to be a good son — and a good man.
National Sons Day was founded by Jill Nico in 2018. Let’s have meaningful conversations with our boys on this day.
It’s time.
Traditions of the Day
While mothers dote on their sons and prepare their favorite food, fathers love to have some man-to-man time with their sons on National Sons Day. Tossing around the old pigskin, taking them out, and imparting words of wisdom. Sons don’t get verbal or physical approval as often as daughters do, so make sure to let your son or someone who is like a son to you know how proud you are of him.
New traditions are being set for future generations to come. National Son Day is the ideal time to have a conversation with your young man about respect and lifestyle choices. Setting an example for our sons will shape their future and model them into fine members of society.