by Chelle Young

Created on: April 25, 2008

I think it is high time that this battle of the sexes end. There is no practical reason that any sex not learn to do something, even sew. I have known too many men, and women, who toss out a shirt or stuff it in the back of the closet, simply because it is missing a button.

There is more to sewing than just using a sewing machine. It includes math, hand-eye coordination and creativity with color, pattern and texture. It is not just quilting, tailoring, or creating, but includes mending, as well. If a seam opens or a button pops, my 11-year-old son would know how to mend it. I am confident that when he leaves home, he will have the necessary skills to fix what needs fixing.

On the same note, my daughter, who will be getting her learners permit this year, will learn to change a tire before she gets her license. A skill I will also teach my son.

Pigeon holing children based on sex is wrong. How many young men out there move away from home and do not know how to cook or do laundry? Some skills are vital to survival, some we learn doing chores growing up, and some we pick up by doing. However, I feel responsible as a parent to ensure that my son and daughter have the skills they need to succeed in life outside of my home, to include sewing.

Gender should play no role in which life skills we learn as children. Both of my children enjoy cooking. My son is learning how to run the washer and dryer. He has learned how to crochet.

I think it is time that we all take a step back and see the big picture. Is it not more important to be self-reliant? To take pride in a job well done? Does it really matter if a boy learns a skill that is associated with the opposite sex? If a boy learns to sew, does that make you question his sexuality? Which of us has a right to pass judgment or decide who learns what? Our youth face enough pressure and day-to-day stress as it is between school and their peers without adding more to their load.

I praise individuals of any sex who can take care of themselves. I will send my children to college or to their first apartment knowing that they can cook, clean, do their own laundry and, yes, sew.

Learn more about this author, Chelle Young.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.