The Boy Who Liked Tea Parties

by Denise Shick

Joey likes to play with his friend Jill. They dress-up her dolls, have tea parties, and dance around the room in fancy hats. His parents encourage him to play with Billy, but Joey doesn't enjoy sitting outside in the hot sun and pushing trucks around in the sandbox. When Joey admits he has more fun with Jill than Billy, his parents seem unhappy. Why don't they want him to play with Jill?

Then Joey and his dad spend an afternoon together, as Joey's dad gets involved in the activities his son enjoys and affirms his interests, Joey learns that being a boy is about more than the activities he enjoys; it's about being the boy God designed him to be.

The Boy Who Liked Tea Parties gently explores ways families can guide a child toward healthy gender identity and development. It is a valuable tool for parents, pastors, and counselors who seek to demonstrate love and compassion as they help children develop gender confidence.