You know how it goes—your toddler comes home talking about a little friend from daycare or the neighborhood, and without missing a beat, someone says:
“Ooooh, is that your boyfriend?” or “Look at y’all like a lil’ couple!”
It sounds harmless. We laugh. The child looks confused—or worse, uncomfortable—and we keep it moving. But here’s the thing, mama: that little tease might seem funny now, but it could plant seeds that shape how our children see friendship, emotions, and even themselves as they grow.
Let Kids Be Kids
At this stage, toddlers are just beginning to explore relationships. They’re learning how to share, express kindness, build trust, and navigate the world around them. When we joke about romance, we can unintentionally pressure them into labels and feelings they don’t understand.
Let’s normalize pure, platonic friendships between boys and girls without always hinting at love, crushes, or attraction.
It Can Lead to Confusion or Shame
Imagine your child simply wanting to say they enjoy playing with a friend. Now they’re being told it’s something more. It might embarrass them or make them self-conscious about showing affection—hugging a buddy, holding hands, or even just talking.
In our Guyanese culture, teasing is often lighthearted and affectionate—but that doesn’t mean it always lands well with our little ones. Kids take things to heart. They might stop sharing with us because they don’t want to be laughed at.
What We Should Say Instead
Instead of teasing, let’s praise the qualities they’re learning in friendships:
- “Wow, you’re such a good friend!”
- “That was kind of you to share your snack.”
- “You like spending time with [friend’s name]? That’s so sweet.”
These are the moments to reinforce empathy, communication, and connection—not romance.
Let’s Break the Cycle
We’re the generation of moms doing things differently—more intentionally. Let’s raise kids who feel safe expressing themselves, who don’t feel pressured to fit into labels too early, and who know their value isn’t tied to romantic attention.
So the next time your little one mentions a friend they love spending time with, give them space to be excited about friendship—without the extra commentary. Let them be free to just be kids.
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