For generations, boys were raised with a script: “Be tough,” “Don’t cry,” “Win at any cost,” and the classic, “Boys don’t do that.” While these phrases may sound harmless, they quietly teach boys to hide emotions, fear vulnerability and measure worth through dominance. Today’s parents are rewriting that script with a healthier model of masculinity, one that embraces strength and sensitivity. Raising a boy without toxic masculinity doesn’t make him weak; it makes him emotionally intelligent, empathetic and confident. Here are five fun and practical parenting shifts that help boys grow into kind, respectful and self-assured young men.




Teach him that emotions are not “girly”, they’re human



Let boys cry, be afraid, express excitement and ask for comfort; it’s not drama, it’s emotional development. When parents encourage boys to express feelings rather than dismissing them with “Be strong,” they teach emotional intelligence instead of suppression. Naming emotions (“I’m sad,” “I’m worried,” “I’m overwhelmed”) helps boys build self-awareness and reduces future anger and frustration. The more boys learn that emotions don’t take away their strength, the easier it becomes for them to form healthy relationships and handle stress like pros.



Normalize hobbies beyond stereotypes



Dancing, cooking, painting, baking, reading romance novels, gardening, boys should feel free to explore anything that sparks joy. When parents remove the idea of “boy activities vs. girl activities,” sons learn to follow interests rather than gender expectations. This also improves creativity and confidence because they’re choosing passions based on excitement, not judgment. A boy who cooks isn’t “girly”… he’s someone who won’t starve in college and might even become the next MasterChef. Win-win.




Model respect instead of dominance



Kids learn from what they see, not what they hear. When parents treat each other and others with respect, especially waiters, grandparents, teachers and domestic help, boys absorb it naturally. Replace outdated ideas like “The man is the boss” with respectful team-based values. Sons raised on fairness rather than superiority grow up to be supportive partners, caring friends and responsible leaders. Strength isn’t about ruling others; it’s about lifting people up.



Teach him consent and boundaries early, not just in relationships



Consent is not a one-time lesson about dating; it starts in childhood. If a boy doesn’t want a hug, don’t force one. If his sister says “Stop,” make sure he listens. Teach him to ask before borrowing toys or entering someone’s room. These small habits build lifelong respect for boundaries. Boys who learn consent early grow into men who treat others’ comfort seriously, not as optional. It also empowers them to protect their own boundaries confidently.



Celebrate kindness as much as achievement


When parents clap for trophies, grades and medals but ignore acts of empathy, boys learn to value success over humanity. Celebrate moments when he helps a friend, comforts a sibling, stands up for someone or apologizes. These tiny recognitions shape character more than report cards. Kindness doesn’t make boys “soft”; it makes them compassionate leaders who earn respect naturally instead of demanding it. Every superhero has powers… but the best ones have kindness too.