According to scientific research, boys make more sounds than girls during their first year of life. In the second year, girls are more vocal. This is the case even though girls are spoken to and spoken around more frequently during both years. Scientists do not yet know why this shift occurs.
However, a striking aspect of society is that “boy energy” is often perceived by adults as excessive from a very young age, whether by parents or others. As boys grow older, there appears to be increasing societal resistance to their energetic behaviour and ways of expressing themselves at home, among family, at school, … They are frequently given the impression that they are simply “too much.” This deprives boys not only of the space to be themselves but also of the opportunity to express themselves, articulate their feelings, and respond empathetically to the emotions of others. Consequently, the assumption is often made that girls are more empathetic and socially adept. But is that really the case, or are we, as a society, denying boys the space to be social in their own way?
As soon as a boy begins to physically resemble a man, he may even face people who perceive him as a threat, even though he remains the same boy, simply inhabiting an increasingly adult body. Boys need just as much love and support as girls to grow up healthy and balanced. They need just as much space to discover their path (Tao), in balance (Yin & Yang) and without force (Wu wei).
When society limits the space necessary to live, boys face frustrations that unnecessarily hinder their balanced development. Ensuring that all children grow up healthy and well-adjusted requires society to be tolerant of and make room for all kinds of differences. It asks for a willingness at home, within the family, at school, and elsewhere to question your assumptions about others, including every individual child. It requires a willingness to forge genuine connections, creating the space to understand what others, including boys, truly need. This ensures they do not have to feel rejected or face unnecessary punishment simply for being boys.
In the fall of 2026, Trias Vita will start an (online) course on how to support a child in his development without punishing or rewarding him. You can find more info about this here;
At the end of August 2026, Trias Vita will start new ‘Natural Oasis’ groups. Children from 3 to 5 years old discover through ‘Magic of Play’ who they are in relation to themselves and others. Sometimes indoors, but also outside in nature. This way, the natural development of children is addressed and encouraged;
In addition, Trias Vita coaches (exceptionally) gifted children and young people from an ecosystemic Taoist perspective to develop a healthy self-image. You can find more info about this here.
If you are interested in coaching, the (online) course, or ‘Natural Oasis’, email Trias Vita.
Trias Vita is a centre for lifelong development that supports children and young people to develop in connection with themselves, others, and the natural environment from an ecosystemic Taoist life perspective: finding your path (Tao) in balance (Yin & Yang) and without force (Wu wei).
Any questions? Mail to info@triasvita.com.
More about Trias Vita on this website.
Vicki Van Lommel, founder Trias Vita