We just found out today that #2 is a little boy! We are so happy! But I'm curious what you seasoned moms and dads can tell me, especially when it comes to the differences between boys and girls. Do you think there are major differences regarding behavior, your own experiences, etc., or not really?
Re: Having a boy! What can I expect?
I am a FTM having a boy, but I work with young kids.... boys tend to take longer to potty train (on average, and from my experience anyway).
I will be watching this to see what others say I'm in for!
My sons are very active and have a lot of energy. I don't give them sugar - if someone does - I'm not responsible for their actions : )
They play wrestle and love sports and action and dirt. They also love their mommies and give kisses and cuddles. Adorable!
But I'm excited for my girl too!!!
I love, love, love having a boy! He is energetic and always on the go. He is very hands on when playing and loves to get dirty. We are outside all the time, digging in the dirt and getting messy. He also has a sensitive side and can be super sweet. There are so many things I love about having a boy (although I do think you are happy no matter what....if I had a girl I could be saying the same thing!).
DS #1 Born: 10/03/06, DS #2 Born: 08/06/12 My Cooking Blog
Busy, busy, busy, busy, a complete blast, your #1 little big man, they make you feel like a kid again, and I agree with PP, they LOVE their moms!
I have worked with hundreds of kids over many years and yes--there are differences between boys and girls (both documented in child development research and antecdotal). That said, in terms of parenting--I like to not focus on that knowledge and instead focus on who my child is. For example, I have a little boy who is not a risk-taker. He has a larger vocabulary than the standard for a 1-year old. He like to play with his toy 'baby'. He's able to communicate some of his bathroom needs. Those are all things that generalizations tell us are less likely for boys, yet there he is. All boy and all himself!
Now, I in no way have any reason to believe that you won't parent to who your child is, but I wanted to write because sometime posts like this lead to gender stereotyping and I think it is always nice to have another perspective in the mix.
Really, I think the only initial parenting decision that is different with a boy than a girl is that you have to decide if you will circumcise him or not.
More Green For Less Green
Congrats on your baby boy!
My DS is definitely more of a challenge than my DD. His 'terrible 2s' lasted from about 1 year old to recently at 3 years old. He's incredibly active, curious, hands-on, and dependent. He's goofy and funny, and doesn't really like to cuddle (esp. with momma). He's a good kid and little boys are definitely a fun handful.
In contrast, DD is a lot more independent. She walked and talked earlier (mind you, DS has a severe speech delay), likes to read and play with babies. She is also very active though and can keep up quite well with her big bro. They're great friends and I love to see it
(Not sure how much of their differences have to do with gender, and how much they have to do with birth order, b/c that definitely plays a role.)
DS is full of energy (even worse when he's overtired). He LOVES cuddling and giving hugs. He's crazy smart and always eager to learn something. And he would choose his mommy over anyone!
I only have my niece to compare him to, but the major differences I've noticed are less sassy mouth with DS and that she plays more independently that DS. Of course, the parenting styles are different so it's hard to compare apples to apples.
Boys are a ton of fun!
EDIT: Don't be worried that you won't have a shopping buddy. I've trained DS to love the mall! It helps that they have a playground, ride on toys, a target, etc, but he's content shopping with me for a couple of hours.