Author: Cheryl Kilo Davis
As early childhood educators and parents we need to be cognizant of the ways we broaden children’s understanding of sexuality, sex, gender and gender identity.
The book titled: My Princess Boy, supports discussion of gender identity as it introduces the concept of “transgender” while also promoting acceptance.
My Princess Boy tells the story of a four-year-old child named Dyson. Dyson loves pink and sparkly things. Things that are commonly associated with girls. Sometimes Dyson wears dresses and sometimes he wears jeans. He is happiest when he is able to express his authentic self.
When reading My Princess Boy discuss with your children the following questions:
- Would you laugh at him?
- Would you play with him?
- Would you call him names?
- Would you be his friend?
- Would you like him for who he is?
Supporting children in the early childhood environment:
- Provide a variety of clothing for dressing up and play
- Ask children how they feel in a variety of different clothing
- Have children create self portraits of the way they see themselves. Use
this opportunity to discuss the individual uniqueness and characteristics that make us who we are, and that we are not defined by restrictions of sex and gender. - You can view a free reading of the book “My Princess Boy” here:
zubyandbeans.ca 