The article emphasizes the importance of one-on-one time between parents and children, highlighting a unique approach by TikTok creator Melissa Ann Marie. She describes a monthly 'date' with her 13-year-old son, where he plans the entire outing, fostering skills like creativity, resourcefulness, and respect. This experience not only builds their bond but also prepares him for future relationships by instilling an understanding of the effort required in nurturing connections. The author reflects on how this practice can counter the expectation that women often manage social arrangements, promoting a more proactive mindset in young men.
Once a month, [my son] gets to take his momma out on a date. He is 13 and it's really good practice for him in how he can take out future women on dates.
I'm teaching him manners and respect, and it's a really good way to just spend some time with my son while teaching him a really good, valuable life lesson.
I don't love framing this as a 'date' or 'for dating,' but I really love the idea of teaching teenage boys to take initiative in nurturing connections with other people.
It seems to me that getting young men to understand what goes into planning something for another person can help them develop a better appreciation of invisible labor and being proactive.
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