By Michaella Faith Wright

In today’s society, there is a commendable emphasis on the empowerment and education of girls, and rightly so. For years, women and girls faced inequalities and biases that demanded attention and action. However, as we continue to uplift the girl child, we must not lose sight of the importance of focusing on the development of our sons as well.

Parents have a responsibility to raise well-rounded children, regardless of gender. Yet, we sometimes see an imbalance where boys are expected to simply “figure things out” on their own or be “tough” without the guidance and emotional support they truly need. A nurturing environment is as critical for sons as it is for daughters. Boys also need direction, encouragement, and strong values instilled in them so they grow into respectful, responsible, and successful men.

Investing time and effort in the upbringing of boys is crucial for society as a whole. When we guide our sons to be morally grounded, empathetic, and hard-working, we’re contributing to a future generation of men who will respect women, value family, and build positive communities. Raising boys with these values helps break down toxic masculinity and replaces it with strength rooted in compassion and respect.

Furthermore, just as girls are taught the importance of education, boys too need to see the value of academic and personal growth. They need encouragement to pursue their dreams and to believe in themselves. Strong role models and open communication are essential so boys feel empowered to express themselves and seek support when needed.

Let us strive to parent with balance, ensuring both our sons and daughters are given equal attention, guidance, and love. Both play critical roles in building a more equitable and respectful world. Focusing on the boy child’s growth doesn’t detract from supporting our girls—it enriches families, strengthens communities, and fosters a generation that understands and values equality.

Ultimately, every child deserves the best start in life, and it’s our role as parents to guide both sons and daughters toward fulfilling their true potential.