Parenting Boys and Who Cares About a Foreskin Anyway: November 21 S

We spend so much time worrying about our girls, I have to wonder if we're not missing the boat when it comes to our sons. What's with all the angry men? Why are we masculinizing our boys? What roles do we and our husbands play?

There's no denying biology in some form or another, but there seems to be a disconnect when it comes to the toys we're providing for our boys. Amy Jo from Binkytown called in to discuss her own 2-year-old son's penchant for all things transportation. Cori from Mrs. Fortune also added that her husband seems to be a bit more "strong-minded" when it comes to their son, even more so than he was with his own older daughter. Both discussed this notion that when we buy girls trucks and race cars, it's cool, however, getting a boy a doll is often frowned upon.

Perhaps we need more boys with dolls -- I wonder if we'd have less clueless, emotionally unavailable men?

Or maybe they are all bitter about their circumcisions. We may never know that in particularly, but I sure learned more than I ever knew about the whole process thanks to special guests Bobita and Jaelithe. Their intelligent and well informed discussion was unmatched; if you have the decision coming up, please take a listen to the show.

Apparently, circumcision does prevent UTIs when done neonatally, however, it's imperative that folks do it early. Certainly the procedure itself might outweigh the decision to worry about a little uti, but when done correctly by an experienced surgeon (with anesthetic), it's not as painful with little to no bleeding.

Holding your crotches yet, men?

The benefits to remaining in tact are certainly linked to the pleasure factor, as well as the number of folks getting botched circumcisions by unexperienced doctors. Both ladies indicated that hygiene is in fant important - particularly as the child reaches the age of 5 and beyond. Many doctors are not privvy to this, and so it's imperative that parents make sure they are informed if they choose for their son to remain in tact.

Circumcision is still the norm in this country, mainly due to dads wanting their sons to look like them. Religious reasons are still prevalent, however, it's often hygiene that is sited for the reasoning for circumcision.

Whatever your decision, both ladies strongly suggested you do your research, talk to your doctor, as well as with your spouse.

It's a body part, for goodness sakes.

Thanks to Kate, Debbie, and Izzy for weighing in on the issue!

Stay tuned next week when we discuss the decision to stick with only one kid, or continue to populate the world with special guests Lena and Mrs. Chicky. And many thanks for listening and calling in.

If you have a topic or something you'd like to discuss, drop me an email: coolmompicks@gmail.com.