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Do you know what My Boy Can is all about?

Our first project from My Boy Can is our initiative #Myboycandance. Working with our dance schools, theatre professionals and families who dance, to impact on and change the social stigma that surrounds our boys who enjoy dancing.

#Myboycan #inspireothers #genderequality #genderstereotyping #mission #Myboycandance #malegender

Do you know what My Boy Can is all about?

Our first project from My Boy Can is our initiative #Myboycandance. Working with our dance schools, theatre professionals and families who dance, to impact on and change the social stigma that surrounds our boys who enjoy dancing.

#Myboycan #inspireothers #genderequality #genderstereotyping #mission #Myboycandance #malegender

Confidence doesn’t come from being told to “toughen up”.

It comes from being understood

Would you want your child in a space where they feel truly understood? YES / ALWAYS 👇

#MyBoyCan #BoysInTheArts #TheatreKids #MalePerformers #DanceKids

Confidence doesn’t come from being told to “toughen up”.

It comes from being understood

Would you want your child in a space where they feel truly understood? YES / ALWAYS 👇

#MyBoyCan #BoysInTheArts #TheatreKids #MalePerformers #DanceKids

There’s nothing wrong with boys who love dance.

What is wrong is when they’re made to feel they shouldn’t.

If this hits home, comment 💙

There’s nothing wrong with boys who love dance.

What is wrong is when they’re made to feel they shouldn’t.

If this hits home, comment 💙

There are boys right now who are hiding how much they love performing.

Not because they’re unsure —
but because they’re scared of being judged.

If you believe boys should never have to hide who they are, comment 💙

There are boys right now who are hiding how much they love performing.

Not because they’re unsure —
but because they’re scared of being judged.

If you believe boys should never have to hide who they are, comment 💙

“I didn’t think there were other boys like me.”

If this hits home, comment 💙

“I didn’t think there were other boys like me.”

If this hits home, comment 💙

ALL BOYS CAN:- With the right support, confidence within themselves and self esteem to believe that they CAN without judgement on their masculinity.

Let’s stop saying a boy Can’t or shouldn’t do something because he is a boy: and say MY BOY CAN

ALL BOYS CAN:- With the right support, confidence within themselves and self esteem to believe that they CAN without judgement on their masculinity.

Let’s stop saying a boy Can’t or shouldn’t do something because he is a boy: and say MY BOY CAN

MY BOY CAN

MY BOY CAN

Remember when we first launched MY BOY CAN with this amazing project.

Who thinks it's time we did more like this again? ☝️

Remember when we first launched MY BOY CAN with this amazing project.

Who thinks it's time we did more like this again? ☝️

May you Rest in Peace #queenelizabeth

May you Rest in Peace #queenelizabeth

This was everything we needed to see on our TVs. @fivestar_official and @simonhundley_ Your hard work paid off and showed the world how important this message is.
Inspirational. Thank you!
These boys will change the world!

This was everything we needed to see on our TVs. @fivestar_official and @simonhundley_ Your hard work paid off and showed the world how important this message is.
Inspirational. Thank you!
These boys will change the world!

@barbie showing girls that they can be anything they want to be - where is the boys version of this?

Our sons can do everything too. I'd love to see this represented more across all genders and toys.

Or just accepted that all toys are for everyone.

@lettoysbetoys is brilliant for raising this discussion. It warms me to see Barbie representing so much in their dolls. Just wish it wasn't taboo for my son to buy a barbie.

@barbie showing girls that they can be anything they want to be - where is the boys version of this?

Our sons can do everything too. I'd love to see this represented more across all genders and toys.

Or just accepted that all toys are for everyone.

@lettoysbetoys is brilliant for raising this discussion. It warms me to see Barbie representing so much in their dolls. Just wish it wasn't taboo for my son to buy a barbie.

Never stop believing you can reach for the skies.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas from the team at MY BOY CAN.
Thank you for inspiring us all this year. 💛

Never stop believing you can reach for the skies.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas from the team at MY BOY CAN.
Thank you for inspiring us all this year. 💛

Celebrating world ballet day by asking you all to share your photos of you dancing

Seeing all the wonderful posts shared and truly blessed to see so many boys dancing.

Anyone can enjoy dance and ballet really is for everyone. #myboycandance

Celebrating world ballet day by asking you all to share your photos of you dancing

Seeing all the wonderful posts shared and truly blessed to see so many boys dancing.

Anyone can enjoy dance and ballet really is for everyone. #myboycandance

"GIRLS" @americangirlbrand - my son asked me to message you to ask "why can only girls access your site?"

He loves your dolls and recently we went on your site to look at other products to buy, only to find this as the initial page.

Why are your dolls and #americangirldoll ONLY aimed at girls? Why not Kids?

Now we all know the majority of your sales will be predominantly from girls, but this isn't good enough! Dolls are not exclusively for girls and your products appeal to little boys too! So let's be more inclusive with your marketing and website.

My son wants to know where the boys section is?

"GIRLS" @americangirlbrand - my son asked me to message you to ask "why can only girls access your site?"

He loves your dolls and recently we went on your site to look at other products to buy, only to find this as the initial page.

Why are your dolls and #americangirldoll ONLY aimed at girls? Why not Kids?

Now we all know the majority of your sales will be predominantly from girls, but this isn't good enough! Dolls are not exclusively for girls and your products appeal to little boys too! So let's be more inclusive with your marketing and website.

My son wants to know where the boys section is?

Honestly it breaks my heart to hear that boys TODAY are still being commented upon for liking "girls stuff"

When did we decide that pink and unicorns were exclusively female and for females!?! It makes my blood boil and heart ache when I hear that my boy has been made fun of for having a pink drink bottle or for wearing a unicorn top to non school uniform day. AND even more so when he tells me he told the teacher and they didn't do anything about it.

When did we stop raising awareness to inclusivity and equality within our schools. When did we stop showing our children that often we all have things in common and sometimes this crosses the stereotypical gender constraints. When did we stop encouraging children to be kind.

I always feel like I take 5 steps forward in my journey with MY BOY CAN - feel as if I'm getting somewhere and it's a positive place. And then bam we take 3 steps back again and the fight for awareness kicks back in. Surely attitudes towards gender and gender stereotypes is changing, surely the positivity is outweighing the negativity - OR am I so fortunate to be wrapped up in the my boy can community, that for a moment I forgot the real world and how much work is still to be done.

Honestly it breaks my heart to hear that boys TODAY are still being commented upon for liking "girls stuff"

When did we decide that pink and unicorns were exclusively female and for females!?! It makes my blood boil and heart ache when I hear that my boy has been made fun of for having a pink drink bottle or for wearing a unicorn top to non school uniform day. AND even more so when he tells me he told the teacher and they didn't do anything about it.

When did we stop raising awareness to inclusivity and equality within our schools. When did we stop showing our children that often we all have things in common and sometimes this crosses the stereotypical gender constraints. When did we stop encouraging children to be kind.

I always feel like I take 5 steps forward in my journey with MY BOY CAN - feel as if I'm getting somewhere and it's a positive place. And then bam we take 3 steps back again and the fight for awareness kicks back in. Surely attitudes towards gender and gender stereotypes is changing, surely the positivity is outweighing the negativity - OR am I so fortunate to be wrapped up in the my boy can community, that for a moment I forgot the real world and how much work is still to be done.

2019 we launched our first project - showing the world that our boys dance.

What a memory.

Who would like us to do one again?
#myboycan #myboycandance

2019 we launched our first project - showing the world that our boys dance.

What a memory.

Who would like us to do one again?
#myboycan #myboycandance

Ever feel like you are shouting out at the world hoping that it will help your son realise that he never has to apologise or hide being himself to anyone.

And yet the world seems more powerful than your tiny voice.

#believeinyourself #myboycan #somepeopleneverchange #holdyourheadhigh #wearthatcrown #slay #cometoslay #gender
#challengegenderstereotypes #dontapologisetobeyou #raiseyourvoice #strengthcomeswithin

Ever feel like you are shouting out at the world hoping that it will help your son realise that he never has to apologise or hide being himself to anyone.

And yet the world seems more powerful than your tiny voice.

#believeinyourself #myboycan #somepeopleneverchange #holdyourheadhigh #wearthatcrown #slay #cometoslay #gender
#challengegenderstereotypes #dontapologisetobeyou #raiseyourvoice #strengthcomeswithin

Sometimes people don't see your true beauty until you spread your wings and fly.

Mum's and Dad's out there who are letting their son be themselves regardless of the pressures to conform to society- Thank You!

You inspire me everyday! You help me keep the strength to face negativity, to raise my voice for my son and to challenge the social pressures put upon boys to conform a certain way.

Keep sharing your stories, posts and images. We see you and together we build confidence in our sons to be exactly who they are.

#myboycan

Sometimes people don't see your true beauty until you spread your wings and fly.

Mum's and Dad's out there who are letting their son be themselves regardless of the pressures to conform to society- Thank You!

You inspire me everyday! You help me keep the strength to face negativity, to raise my voice for my son and to challenge the social pressures put upon boys to conform a certain way.

Keep sharing your stories, posts and images. We see you and together we build confidence in our sons to be exactly who they are.

#myboycan

So many see a rail of girls costumes - so many see girls colours - so many would say NO to their son for wanting to try them on or indeed own one.

Let boys enjoy all characters as we do our daughters. Let them explore the fabric of princess and the bold and bright fun colours that they encompass. Let boys know that female characters are just as important as male ones and let's see how those boys change the world.

Boys can like Princesses too and still be boys.

#Myboycan #genderstereotypes #boyslikeprincessestoo #gender #challengegenderstereotypes #enjoyprincesses #equality #educate #explore #princess #Disneyprincess

So many see a rail of girls costumes - so many see girls colours - so many would say NO to their son for wanting to try them on or indeed own one.

Let boys enjoy all characters as we do our daughters. Let them explore the fabric of princess and the bold and bright fun colours that they encompass. Let boys know that female characters are just as important as male ones and let's see how those boys change the world.

Boys can like Princesses too and still be boys.

#Myboycan #genderstereotypes #boyslikeprincessestoo #gender #challengegenderstereotypes #enjoyprincesses #equality #educate #explore #princess #Disneyprincess

Stop saying a boy can't or shouldnt do something because he is a boy and start saying MY BOY CAN.

All boys should feel that they can do anything and not be tied to their gender stereotypes.
Boys believe in just being you - we believe you can!

Stop saying a boy can't or shouldnt do something because he is a boy and start saying MY BOY CAN.

All boys should feel that they can do anything and not be tied to their gender stereotypes.
Boys believe in just being you - we believe you can!

For the parent who feels like they are having to justify their parenting style - I see you.

For the parent who feels like they are supporting their son to be just himself- I see you.

For the parent who finds some days incredibly emotional and draining - I see you.

For the parent who just wants their son to be happy as himself- I see you.

For the parent who is proud of their son and shows their pride no matter who judges - I see you.

For the parent who struggles to find that voice - I see you.

I am that parent - I have days of not worring and just doing me, with my son without a care in the world AND then I have days where I doubt myself on whether I'm supporting him correctly or am enough. When you feel like your son isn't the one conforming to the stereotypical gender that is expected upon him by others; it can feel worrying on what others are thinking. What they may be saying or questioning ; but if your son is happy, then that truly is all that matters. Let them be themselves, but know you're not the only parent facing that worry and journey. I see you.

For the parent who feels like they are having to justify their parenting style - I see you.

For the parent who feels like they are supporting their son to be just himself- I see you.

For the parent who finds some days incredibly emotional and draining - I see you.

For the parent who just wants their son to be happy as himself- I see you.

For the parent who is proud of their son and shows their pride no matter who judges - I see you.

For the parent who struggles to find that voice - I see you.

I am that parent - I have days of not worring and just doing me, with my son without a care in the world AND then I have days where I doubt myself on whether I'm supporting him correctly or am enough. When you feel like your son isn't the one conforming to the stereotypical gender that is expected upon him by others; it can feel worrying on what others are thinking. What they may be saying or questioning ; but if your son is happy, then that truly is all that matters. Let them be themselves, but know you're not the only parent facing that worry and journey. I see you.

The creativity that shines out of my kid is unreal - he is an individual.

Some may not understand it. Some may be confused by his blend of "boy & girl".

But I just love how he is just himself, unapologetically himself. Because he is happiest when he is allowed to be himself.

The creativity that shines out of my kid is unreal - he is an individual.

Some may not understand it. Some may be confused by his blend of "boy & girl".

But I just love how he is just himself, unapologetically himself. Because he is happiest when he is allowed to be himself.

The world is such a cruel place at times.
Seeing the racist comments after our incredible World Cup, reading about the young man killed in Spain and being aware to the negativity that surrounds us.
It makes life heavy sometimes.

Watching how my incredibly individual son has to find his own way to fit into that same world and at times survive it - scares me everyday.

Children can surprise us over and over as often they face our fears head on and with ease. Yet there are times when our fears become the reality and we somehow have to find that strength to say It will be OK. You will be OK.

In life we will see, hear and feel moments that open our eyes to the cruelty within the world. We just have to know how to face that world and still remain true to ourselves within it. Find your peace, your safe space, your self and know you are loved - just the way you are.

The world is such a cruel place at times.
Seeing the racist comments after our incredible World Cup, reading about the young man killed in Spain and being aware to the negativity that surrounds us.
It makes life heavy sometimes.

Watching how my incredibly individual son has to find his own way to fit into that same world and at times survive it - scares me everyday.

Children can surprise us over and over as often they face our fears head on and with ease. Yet there are times when our fears become the reality and we somehow have to find that strength to say It will be OK. You will be OK.

In life we will see, hear and feel moments that open our eyes to the cruelty within the world. We just have to know how to face that world and still remain true to ourselves within it. Find your peace, your safe space, your self and know you are loved - just the way you are.

Wow what a few months we have had! Anyone else just got lost in the moments, the back to school runs, the after school clubs, the madness of work in workplaces again, plus enjoying the places that have reopened?

It all feels so busy again and yet what has been great is seeing how much these moments mean to us. Remaking of memories, creating new ones and seeing a change in people around us.

Realisation of time and how precious and valuable time is to us and seeing how you don't want to be wasting time on things that don't bring you happiness or a purpose. It really has changed perspectives.

We may feel quiet on the pages, but we are all here. Dancing, enjoying and being us, knowing we are not alone and excited for the first meeting when we can all be back together.

Let's get to work: it's time to say MY BOY CAN

Wow what a few months we have had! Anyone else just got lost in the moments, the back to school runs, the after school clubs, the madness of work in workplaces again, plus enjoying the places that have reopened?

It all feels so busy again and yet what has been great is seeing how much these moments mean to us. Remaking of memories, creating new ones and seeing a change in people around us.

Realisation of time and how precious and valuable time is to us and seeing how you don't want to be wasting time on things that don't bring you happiness or a purpose. It really has changed perspectives.

We may feel quiet on the pages, but we are all here. Dancing, enjoying and being us, knowing we are not alone and excited for the first meeting when we can all be back together.

Let's get to work: it's time to say MY BOY CAN

BE WHO YOU ARE.

Unapologetically. We see you.

BE WHO YOU ARE.

Unapologetically. We see you.

Enjoying the summer sun finally!

And loving the summer colours.
#pinkisforeveryone #myboycan #challengegenderstereotypes

Enjoying the summer sun finally!

And loving the summer colours.
#pinkisforeveryone #myboycan #challengegenderstereotypes

Happiness is all I ask for. If it makes you happy, then it's probably right for you.

Choose happiness all day long. 💛

Happiness is all I ask for. If it makes you happy, then it's probably right for you.

Choose happiness all day long. 💛

How do describe your amazing little boy who loves Princesses and dresses?

How do you put that into words so that others understand the world he lives in and includes him in it?

Because I am tired of feeling like I'm justifying what he likes rather than just enjoying what he likes.

#boyslikeprincessestoo #princessfan #colourful #dressup #letclothesbeclothes #beautiful #genderstereotypes #gender #challengingstereotypes

How do describe your amazing little boy who loves Princesses and dresses?

How do you put that into words so that others understand the world he lives in and includes him in it?

Because I am tired of feeling like I'm justifying what he likes rather than just enjoying what he likes.

#boyslikeprincessestoo #princessfan #colourful #dressup #letclothesbeclothes #beautiful #genderstereotypes #gender #challengingstereotypes

Being able to see other boys who are the same as my son, was the biggest confidence boost he needed.

It made him see that he wasn't the only boy who enjoyed dancing, make up and Barbies- that there are a lot more like him.

That became really important in building himself a foundation of inner acceptance to just be himself and happy in his own choices.

#myboycan

Being able to see other boys who are the same as my son, was the biggest confidence boost he needed.

It made him see that he wasn't the only boy who enjoyed dancing, make up and Barbies- that there are a lot more like him.

That became really important in building himself a foundation of inner acceptance to just be himself and happy in his own choices.

#myboycan

As a young girl I was always encouraged to believe I could do anything, be anyone I wanted to be and to not let my gender limit my capabilities.

Move forward to 2014 when I gave birth to my son and for the first time my eyes were opened to the limitations that are put onto boys and men. Starting with the colours of the baby clothes, moving to the toys he should play with, his hair style, his expectation that he shouldn't cry, he should be brave, he shouldn't like Princesses let alone dress up as one, he shouldn't play with dolls or dolls houses.......in a world where girls were being told to explore everything and be whoever they want to be- boys were still being limited to what they should be.

It opened my eyes WIDE! Because our boys need to explore just as girls do, need to understand equality can only be achieved when we challenge the male stereotype more and say: boys can play dolls and be fathers, can like Princesses and still be boys, can cry and be brave at the same time, can have long hair.

I don't want my son to feel he can't do something because of his gender. I want him to feel confident that he can and still be a boy.

As a young girl I was always encouraged to believe I could do anything, be anyone I wanted to be and to not let my gender limit my capabilities.

Move forward to 2014 when I gave birth to my son and for the first time my eyes were opened to the limitations that are put onto boys and men. Starting with the colours of the baby clothes, moving to the toys he should play with, his hair style, his expectation that he shouldn't cry, he should be brave, he shouldn't like Princesses let alone dress up as one, he shouldn't play with dolls or dolls houses.......in a world where girls were being told to explore everything and be whoever they want to be- boys were still being limited to what they should be.

It opened my eyes WIDE! Because our boys need to explore just as girls do, need to understand equality can only be achieved when we challenge the male stereotype more and say: boys can play dolls and be fathers, can like Princesses and still be boys, can cry and be brave at the same time, can have long hair.

I don't want my son to feel he can't do something because of his gender. I want him to feel confident that he can and still be a boy.

Long Hair - Don't Care!

After yesterday's post and all your comments, it's refreshing to hear and see so many boys with long hair being themselves and parents supporting them.

Our boys are amazing!

Long Hair - Don't Care!

After yesterday's post and all your comments, it's refreshing to hear and see so many boys with long hair being themselves and parents supporting them.

Our boys are amazing!

Thought I'd say hello to all the new followers and tell you a bit about MY BOY CAN.

Just like a lot of you I am a mum to a boy. A wonderful little boy who has always liked toys, characters, dress up, activities that society would deem as for girls.

Personally I see toys, dress up and activities as available for all and not gendered. Kids are kids and should be able to explore and enjoy what they enjoy.

But then I heard the comments "he shouldn't have a doll, he's a boy", "ballet is for little girls" and "why you dressed like that for" as he bounces into a room as elsa.

How in this day and age are we still hearing these comments? I also didn't realise how restricting this made the world for boys. Girls are encouraged be, do, play anything- it isn't so much of a stir now if we see a girl dress up as a superhero or firefighter instead of a princess; BUT see a boy dressed as a princess and wow its not right.

I personally don't want my son to feel he can not enjoy something or be himself because within society its classed as too feminine.

He is getting older, the time for princesses has passed, however for my boy: dance has become a big part of who he is. For a long time he was the only boy in a sea of girls and when comments started being said that dance is for girls, specifically ballet. He stopped ballet dancing because he couldn't find the inner strength to face the negativity.

Thats when I decided I had to show him and others that you can do something and still be a boy. That boys shouldn't have to not do something because they are boys, that boys should be encouraged to be themselves and not feel pressured by stereotypes and conformity.

And so MY BOY CAN was created.

It's been 2 years now and so much has changed. You the community we founded and the people we met really made a positive impact on my own sons perspective. He started ballet again in April after lockdown and is happy in himself. Your sons inspire him, you stories shared help me to know we are not alone in our thoughts and together I do believe change will happen.

Thank you for being on this journey with me to stop saying a boy can't or shouldn't do something and say MY BOY CAN

Thought I'd say hello to all the new followers and tell you a bit about MY BOY CAN.

Just like a lot of you I am a mum to a boy. A wonderful little boy who has always liked toys, characters, dress up, activities that society would deem as for girls.

Personally I see toys, dress up and activities as available for all and not gendered. Kids are kids and should be able to explore and enjoy what they enjoy.

But then I heard the comments "he shouldn't have a doll, he's a boy", "ballet is for little girls" and "why you dressed like that for" as he bounces into a room as elsa.

How in this day and age are we still hearing these comments? I also didn't realise how restricting this made the world for boys. Girls are encouraged be, do, play anything- it isn't so much of a stir now if we see a girl dress up as a superhero or firefighter instead of a princess; BUT see a boy dressed as a princess and wow its not right.

I personally don't want my son to feel he can not enjoy something or be himself because within society its classed as too feminine.

He is getting older, the time for princesses has passed, however for my boy: dance has become a big part of who he is. For a long time he was the only boy in a sea of girls and when comments started being said that dance is for girls, specifically ballet. He stopped ballet dancing because he couldn't find the inner strength to face the negativity.

Thats when I decided I had to show him and others that you can do something and still be a boy. That boys shouldn't have to not do something because they are boys, that boys should be encouraged to be themselves and not feel pressured by stereotypes and conformity.

And so MY BOY CAN was created.

It's been 2 years now and so much has changed. You the community we founded and the people we met really made a positive impact on my own sons perspective. He started ballet again in April after lockdown and is happy in himself. Your sons inspire him, you stories shared help me to know we are not alone in our thoughts and together I do believe change will happen.

Thank you for being on this journey with me to stop saying a boy can't or shouldn't do something and say MY BOY CAN

Hair is individual to us all. It is our hair, it is what we like, we want to style, we have that helps us define our own identity.

As soon as my child could, hair cutting and styling became their own choices. He asked to grow his hair - he grew it.

Yet so many comments were made either to him or me about he needs a hair cut. He doesn't need long hair.

Why? Why can't a boy have long hair? Why is it considered untidy for a boy to have long locks?

Within those handful of comments, came the worst part: it reinforced a gender stereotype that boys don't have long hair. It helped to question whether boys should or could have long hair and still be boy.

Often we don't see how damaging comments or opinions can be at filtering into the gender stereotypes that surround us. And yet I see so many men with long hair. I do see images of long hair on men in films and TV. So it is becoming usualised to see: it just takes a while to trickle into our everyday.

One day a young boy will have long hair and not one person will make a comment about them being a girl.....one day.

Hair is individual to us all. It is our hair, it is what we like, we want to style, we have that helps us define our own identity.

As soon as my child could, hair cutting and styling became their own choices. He asked to grow his hair - he grew it.

Yet so many comments were made either to him or me about he needs a hair cut. He doesn't need long hair.

Why? Why can't a boy have long hair? Why is it considered untidy for a boy to have long locks?

Within those handful of comments, came the worst part: it reinforced a gender stereotype that boys don't have long hair. It helped to question whether boys should or could have long hair and still be boy.

Often we don't see how damaging comments or opinions can be at filtering into the gender stereotypes that surround us. And yet I see so many men with long hair. I do see images of long hair on men in films and TV. So it is becoming usualised to see: it just takes a while to trickle into our everyday.

One day a young boy will have long hair and not one person will make a comment about them being a girl.....one day.

Anyone else dreaming of a time when holidays are a thing again?

I miss adventures abroad.

Anyone else dreaming of a time when holidays are a thing again?

I miss adventures abroad.

Knowing you are not the only boy who faces stigmas, knowing there are others who dance, wear make up, like Princesses- knowing you are not the only parent feeling the pressures of gender stereotypes on your child- you are not alone.

Knowing you are not the only one helps so much to build confidence in just being you. That is why MY BOY CAN is so special.

It brings like minded boys together and their families. Making us all feel stronger and more confident to be ourselves.

#myboycan

Knowing you are not the only boy who faces stigmas, knowing there are others who dance, wear make up, like Princesses- knowing you are not the only parent feeling the pressures of gender stereotypes on your child- you are not alone.

Knowing you are not the only one helps so much to build confidence in just being you. That is why MY BOY CAN is so special.

It brings like minded boys together and their families. Making us all feel stronger and more confident to be ourselves.

#myboycan

With smiles this big....its no wonder why our sons are loving dance classes.

Hope you've all had a great weekend so far.

With smiles this big....its no wonder why our sons are loving dance classes.

Hope you've all had a great weekend so far.

Elsa was my sons hero for about 2 years. He loved her, sang his heart out with her, felt her confidence within him, had to freeze everything he touched magically with his hands. AND the costume to be Elsa was his favourite.

Elsa was his superhero. He was her fan and he felt empowered by her character and her story.

Yet having a female role model was new or at least felt new. It made people feel uncomfortable that a boy would like a female character so much. So used to our heroes being male, Elsa became a phenomenon. Every child loved her and enjoyed her character and super power.

She became the hottest topic of conversation because she was a SHE that boys & girls wanted to pretend to be or to play with her figurines or have t-shirts of her on.

I truly feel Elsa changed the world, because for the first time it made me see how female heroes were not celebrated and equal. Otherwise why would people be so upset seeing a young boy dress up in her dress singing Let it go?

Elsa was my sons hero for about 2 years. He loved her, sang his heart out with her, felt her confidence within him, had to freeze everything he touched magically with his hands. AND the costume to be Elsa was his favourite.

Elsa was his superhero. He was her fan and he felt empowered by her character and her story.

Yet having a female role model was new or at least felt new. It made people feel uncomfortable that a boy would like a female character so much. So used to our heroes being male, Elsa became a phenomenon. Every child loved her and enjoyed her character and super power.

She became the hottest topic of conversation because she was a SHE that boys & girls wanted to pretend to be or to play with her figurines or have t-shirts of her on.

I truly feel Elsa changed the world, because for the first time it made me see how female heroes were not celebrated and equal. Otherwise why would people be so upset seeing a young boy dress up in her dress singing Let it go?

Happy International dance day.

So good to see all the images and videos of the boys back in the studio again doing what they love. Keep tagging us - it's been inspirational for me and my son to look through them.

#boysdancetoo
#myboycan #myboycandance

Happy International dance day.

So good to see all the images and videos of the boys back in the studio again doing what they love. Keep tagging us - it's been inspirational for me and my son to look through them.

#boysdancetoo
#myboycan #myboycandance

Dolls are toys! Just toys not girls toys.

Dolls are toys! Just toys not girls toys.

Today 2 years ago, I was so frustrated with the world that I started a page called MY BOY CAN to have a rant at the world and hope someone out there would listen and say YES, I hear that.

2 years on - 1 of which has been a pandemic - the workshops, photoshoots, projects, discussions...it has all been a whirlwind.

How has it been 2 years already!?!

Here's to the next year when we can finally get back together in person and keep going with what we started.

#myboycan

Today 2 years ago, I was so frustrated with the world that I started a page called MY BOY CAN to have a rant at the world and hope someone out there would listen and say YES, I hear that.

2 years on - 1 of which has been a pandemic - the workshops, photoshoots, projects, discussions...it has all been a whirlwind.

How has it been 2 years already!?!

Here's to the next year when we can finally get back together in person and keep going with what we started.

#myboycan

Help!

My son has developed a ggrrr everytime something frustrates him. I understand exactly how he is feeling- its that honest out burst of "gggrrr" with a I can't do this or why do I have to do this or sometimes a stamp of a foot.

Now I don't mind the vocal reaction as it is clear that something has frustrated him. However I want there to always be a chance to talk it through or a way to ensure that the negative or frustrated energy is not held on to and becomes anger.

I was told that boys don't like to talk and don't deal with anger and frustration the way girls do. Right or wrong with that advice - how do I ensure he has on outlet and be open with the tough stuff in life too?

Help!

My son has developed a ggrrr everytime something frustrates him. I understand exactly how he is feeling- its that honest out burst of "gggrrr" with a I can't do this or why do I have to do this or sometimes a stamp of a foot.

Now I don't mind the vocal reaction as it is clear that something has frustrated him. However I want there to always be a chance to talk it through or a way to ensure that the negative or frustrated energy is not held on to and becomes anger.

I was told that boys don't like to talk and don't deal with anger and frustration the way girls do. Right or wrong with that advice - how do I ensure he has on outlet and be open with the tough stuff in life too?

Anyone else for an impromptu purchase?

Sun's out and feels like summers coming...so we brought this for endless hours of fun outdoors.

Oops.....

Anyone else for an impromptu purchase?

Sun's out and feels like summers coming...so we brought this for endless hours of fun outdoors.

Oops.....

As this week unfolded and the more activities we did and changes that have come about - I couldn't be prouder of my son.

He is himself, without any shame and he copes so well with whatever is thrown at him.

We have been so lucky that he has a great group of supportive friends, family and people surrounding him - a lot of similar people from the MY BOY CAN family- yet all of this has helped him stay confident in himself.

I am so proud of him and who he is. Showing the world that he really can be anything and not feeling restricted by stereotypes or ideals. He will challenge them in his own way and I couldn't be prouder of that.

As this week unfolded and the more activities we did and changes that have come about - I couldn't be prouder of my son.

He is himself, without any shame and he copes so well with whatever is thrown at him.

We have been so lucky that he has a great group of supportive friends, family and people surrounding him - a lot of similar people from the MY BOY CAN family- yet all of this has helped him stay confident in himself.

I am so proud of him and who he is. Showing the world that he really can be anything and not feeling restricted by stereotypes or ideals. He will challenge them in his own way and I couldn't be prouder of that.

Absolutely in love with this print designed and made exclusively for MY BOY CAN by @nicholson_calligraphy

It encapsulates my son entirely in one gorgeous print. The world is his stage as he pirouettes around it believing he can be anyone he wants to be.

Thank you Sarah for this unbelievable piece.

#myboycan

Absolutely in love with this print designed and made exclusively for MY BOY CAN by @nicholson_calligraphy

It encapsulates my son entirely in one gorgeous print. The world is his stage as he pirouettes around it believing he can be anyone he wants to be.

Thank you Sarah for this unbelievable piece.

#myboycan

I love the fact that my son actively enjoys getting involved in the film work and theatre work that I do.

Last week, I spent the entire Easter holidays on set filming for a show. I was fortunate enough to have my son on set. But what I didn't expect was the crew to get him involved. Clapperboard fun- he loved the responsibility and seeing how a film comes together.

Inspiring a new generation of creatives. Absolutely magical.

I love the fact that my son actively enjoys getting involved in the film work and theatre work that I do.

Last week, I spent the entire Easter holidays on set filming for a show. I was fortunate enough to have my son on set. But what I didn't expect was the crew to get him involved. Clapperboard fun- he loved the responsibility and seeing how a film comes together.

Inspiring a new generation of creatives. Absolutely magical.

Anyone else's son just not enjoying reading?

I swear it's the books themselves- he is just not interested in the stories the school present him with. He dislikes sitting down with a book, doesn't enjoy the work he has to put in to read the words.

Give him a stage or the freedom to create a story on a page and he will embellish. Give him a book and he moans and moans.

How do you all tackle this?

Anyone else's son just not enjoying reading?

I swear it's the books themselves- he is just not interested in the stories the school present him with. He dislikes sitting down with a book, doesn't enjoy the work he has to put in to read the words.

Give him a stage or the freedom to create a story on a page and he will embellish. Give him a book and he moans and moans.

How do you all tackle this?

Mum Guilt: You must feel this sometimes.

This year I feel has carried a heavy burden. I've spent more hours than ever before at a computer. Creating imagery, posting social media posts, hosting online workshops, meetings, recordings of different people I've interviewed, messaging and creating opportunities for MY BOY CAN - and all of that took me away from my own son; whom I started all.of this for.

What many do not realise is this is a not for profit - so this I do completely volunteer. So to make it happen, I have to work alongside the project to ensure we can live. Which has seen me work additional hours for my actual job as well.

Mum Guilt : I never normally worry about this or make a fuss. But by our 3rd lockdown here in the UK, I realised I needed to stop. I needed a break away and I needed to refocus. So I went quiet with MY BOY CAN and spent my energy on my son, me and working the just the job I needed to pay the bills. I has been just what I needed.

I can't do everything, I have to prioritise. I realised what made MY BOY CAN so special is the interaction with other families. I miss the in person workshops, miss hearing the mums say "I am feeling that too", miss seeing the boys smile as they make new friends. I miss my son realising that he is a part of something so special and meet people who are like him.

I've realised MY BOY CAN is not just about the posts, the stories, the recordings.....it is about us, the people.

I'm looking forward to meeting you all again in the summer. When I can moan about my mum Guilt and have mum's understand me and know just what I'm going through.

Sometimes we just have to know I CAN do what is best for me and it is important to.

Mum Guilt: You must feel this sometimes.

This year I feel has carried a heavy burden. I've spent more hours than ever before at a computer. Creating imagery, posting social media posts, hosting online workshops, meetings, recordings of different people I've interviewed, messaging and creating opportunities for MY BOY CAN - and all of that took me away from my own son; whom I started all.of this for.

What many do not realise is this is a not for profit - so this I do completely volunteer. So to make it happen, I have to work alongside the project to ensure we can live. Which has seen me work additional hours for my actual job as well.

Mum Guilt : I never normally worry about this or make a fuss. But by our 3rd lockdown here in the UK, I realised I needed to stop. I needed a break away and I needed to refocus. So I went quiet with MY BOY CAN and spent my energy on my son, me and working the just the job I needed to pay the bills. I has been just what I needed.

I can't do everything, I have to prioritise. I realised what made MY BOY CAN so special is the interaction with other families. I miss the in person workshops, miss hearing the mums say "I am feeling that too", miss seeing the boys smile as they make new friends. I miss my son realising that he is a part of something so special and meet people who are like him.

I've realised MY BOY CAN is not just about the posts, the stories, the recordings.....it is about us, the people.

I'm looking forward to meeting you all again in the summer. When I can moan about my mum Guilt and have mum's understand me and know just what I'm going through.

Sometimes we just have to know I CAN do what is best for me and it is important to.

So so happy to be back in the dance studios again.

We have really struggled in our home to do online dancing. My son just couldn't get on with it. It feels like he hasn't danced properly now for nearly a year. (We did go back for a few weeks) but fingers crossed this time is it.

I am so excited to see his smile as he dances with all his fellow boys. We are so lucky to attend an all boys dance class.

What are you excited for?

So so happy to be back in the dance studios again.

We have really struggled in our home to do online dancing. My son just couldn't get on with it. It feels like he hasn't danced properly now for nearly a year. (We did go back for a few weeks) but fingers crossed this time is it.

I am so excited to see his smile as he dances with all his fellow boys. We are so lucky to attend an all boys dance class.

What are you excited for?

With all the work I do: Change in stereotypes and stereotyping has to start with you.

How do we reinforce the gender stereotypes? How are we portraying gender? What language is used?

Often without realising we are so ingrained in our own teachings of gender that we support the stereotypes without even meaning to. So how do we support a change in the ideals created....we start to make the changes in our own outlooks, language; we recognise the unequal marketing and we raise our voices to say we don't agree. We support our children who challenge stereotypes or we raise our children to be supportive towards children who do.

Change comes from us. And we can change the world.

With all the work I do: Change in stereotypes and stereotyping has to start with you.

How do we reinforce the gender stereotypes? How are we portraying gender? What language is used?

Often without realising we are so ingrained in our own teachings of gender that we support the stereotypes without even meaning to. So how do we support a change in the ideals created....we start to make the changes in our own outlooks, language; we recognise the unequal marketing and we raise our voices to say we don't agree. We support our children who challenge stereotypes or we raise our children to be supportive towards children who do.

Change comes from us. And we can change the world.

As we move into the next phase of towards the UK reopening. I am also here planning and creating opportunities for when we are able to reopen our doors and get the boys together for events, projects and to really bring our community together.

MY BOY CAN was always created to inspire boys to be themselves and to help find support with each other. Meet like minded boys and families. Help build each others confidence and raise the awareness to say MY BOY CAN be himself.

As we move into the next phase of towards the UK reopening. I am also here planning and creating opportunities for when we are able to reopen our doors and get the boys together for events, projects and to really bring our community together.

MY BOY CAN was always created to inspire boys to be themselves and to help find support with each other. Meet like minded boys and families. Help build each others confidence and raise the awareness to say MY BOY CAN be himself.

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