I’m sure by now you’ve heard about the controversy surrounding this JCrew ad featuring a mother and a boy with pink nail polish:

The ad was attacked in the media, and Dr. Keith Ablow on Fox News, in opinion and commentary, had some biting statements against JCrew President Jenna Lyons for allowing such a catalogue spread.

“Not only is Beckett likely to change his favorite color as early as tomorrow, Jenna’s indulgence (or encouragement) could make life hard for the boy in the future. J. Crew, known for its tasteful and modest clothing, apparently does not mind exploiting Beckett behind the facade of liberal, transgendered identity politics.”

You can read the piece here.

His reaction drew a lot of flack from parents, particularly mothers who think there’s nothing wrong with the ad and that name-calling addressed to JCrew’s top brass is uncalled for.

One parent notes, “All of my sons wanted to wear nail polish when they were younger and I let them. They also wanted My Little Ponies and I got those for them too. The majority of the little boys I’ve known have wanted to wear or play with stereotypically girl’s things. This doesn’t mean the boys are gay or will turn gay and those people who are so afraid of this happening are complete jerks. I think psychological harm is much more likely to be suffered by a little boy who wants these things only to be made to feel ashamed by their disgusted parents.”

What is your take on this controversy?

My eight year old niece has expressed interest for learning to play the guitar. No one in her immediate family or extended family is musically inclined and this was something that her parents were quite hesitant to follow through, believing that it might just be phase. The child may outgrow the desire and expenses for buying a guitar and taking lessons will all go to waste.

However, my niece was persistent. All through last year, she took lessons and fortunately, has truly learned to love the art of guitar playing.

Today, she performs actively in a small crowd. In school, during family gatherings, she obliges everyone with her music. I see my niece growing from a shy little child to a confident young lady who really loves what she is doing. Even when no one in her family can play with her she is getting so much support from their encouragement and from constantly asking to listen to her music.

The guitar playing did wonders for her, that it also became a good influence in the way she does her school work. She is more inspired I guess, and her mother recently told me that she has gotten straight A’s.

She has also become more confident among peers. It seems that finding what she’s capable of doing and nurturing this, has boosted her self-esteem.

The other day, I found her teaching some of her friends the basic of guitars and I was really so proud of the way she carried herself and became the “teacher” this time. All these happened, because she chose to pursue what she really loved doing!

It’s your role as a parent to let your child explore his surroundings. It is proven that the more you allow your child to discover things, the more they learn and it brings out the confidence in them. I remembered how I get so excited when we’re going in a fieldtrip. It felt good when I saw things in real life and not just in pictures. The same thing with your child, they need to see and feel things so that they’ll be able to associate with the words that you’ve taught them.

For example, she learned the word “flower” rather than just showing her pictures, why not go to a nearest flowerhouse greenhouse for her to experience the real thing. Fun should be part of learning, so let your child move around even if she gets dirty (don’t worry I’m sure she’ll learn from it.)The more she sees things, the more she gets enthusiastic.

• You can also try educational games for your child. It also serves as a bonding time for both of you. It’s such a rewarding moment when you witness your child’s “a-ha moments” and find yourself learning too.
• Going in different places like museums, malls, classrooms contributes to your child’s achievement. So a lot of encouragement and enthusiasm will help your child love learning.
• You may also schedule a play date with other kids. Your child will surely enjoy discovering a lot of things with his new playmates. Your little one will learn how to treat others in a nice way and she will also learn the value of sharing.
• You can even ask your child’s help you plant flowers in your backyard or try visiting sites that offers a cheap flowerhouse greenhouses so that you can make your own and let your child enjoy every minute of it.
• You can also team up with your child’s teacher. You can ask them to give you materials that will help your child get motivated in school.
• Try joining different workshops that will bring out your child’s talent. Learning to express herself is also an important thing.
• Buy her toys that will promote learning. Books should also be on your list because love for reading should be develop in an early age.
• Watching educational shows is a big help for young learners. I should know because I teach preschool kids and I’ve seen how these kinds of shows help my entire student in learning new words, actions, etc.
• During her playtime, let your imagination grow. Try making your own museum of your child’s doll and allow her to tour you. You can also make a mini flowerhouse greenhouse (I’m sure your kid will give you a helping hand), or you can create your own fun and active games.

These are just few insights that I know that can help you enjoy learning with your child. But still there are tons of fun things that you can do to help your little one. Discover new things and have fun.

Learning how to walk is a key milestone in your baby’s life. When you see that your toddler is beginning to stand, your first instinct is to encourage him to make his first baby steps. The worst thing that you can do is urge your baby to walk while he’s wobbling around. BE PATIENT! They’ve just discovered something new and they need time to get on their feet and walk. Developing the motor skills of a child is a long process, and the parents’ role is to lend a helping hand.

Forcing your child may irritate him.  Just like adults, we get cranky when we’re not in the mood.  Allow your child to explore.  Your job as a parent is to stay by his side with your arms ready to take action when help is needed.  Be a guide to your baby.  Each step means everything to your little one.  It’s an achievement for him.    The best thing to do is to encourage him.  Clap your hands, give him a cheer like he has won a contest.  More importantly, hugs and kisses can be a great motivation to your child.

Reserve purchasing walking shoes until he learns to walk outdoors.  Walking barefoot helps him develop balance and coordination.  Bright stars tropical fun around we go activity station will enhance these developments in your child’s motor skills. The activity table adds fun to your child’s learning process and will make their every step fun and easy.

Where to buy: Bright starts

Price: $79.99

Video: Activity station

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