It seems that the latest new (not yet born) kid on the block in the celebration department is the Gender Reveal party – really? Does this not seem to be one step too far in the expectations of our friends and family. Of course, everyone does – mostly we are all delighted to hear about a pregnancy and a birth, but surely it’s between the couple and their immediate family and not an excuse for another party? Trust me, I am the Queen of Parties and don’t really need an excuse, but to expect people to attend this, then the baby shower, as well as the potential wedding – how much do we think everyone should commit in terms of time and money in our days of austerity?
This is of course an American import that has slipped through our net. I met someone recently who is planning one. She was looking for a company that provided golf balls that exploded with pink or blue sparkle when hit. I presume the idea is that the father-to-be hits the ball in front of numerous guests and then his delight is shared with everyone.
WTF.
Is all I can say.
The reason that I have such an issue with this is that I thought we were moving on to a far more progressive sort of society. One in which we are trying to erase the pink/blue, Barbie/Ken, doll/car sort of life we have previously created for our children. Setting the scene in such an overt way prior to the babies birth is surely going to set us back a few more years? WHY should anyone but the parents care about the gender of their child and WHY should this be presented in such a stereotypical way? Surely this is sex role stereotyping at it’s very worst?
Having a baby is incredibly exciting for the parents concerned. Surely a baby shower (which I have an issue with as well) is enough of big deal to share with friends, so why add another layer of expense for friends and family? Why would new parents presume that their friends and family care what sex the baby is? Surely all we care about is that the baby is healthy?
In an age where we are trying to introduce gender fluidity, why would parents-to-be make such a big deal about the gender of their unborn child, I just don’t understand….
I’d love it if anyone could enlighten me on the subject….
Expat Mum
July 18, 2017Not defending it necessarily but perhaps because (as you may remember) so many people ask you if you know what it is, and if you do know but are trying to keep it quiet, they’re hanging on your every word in case you let it slip. It’s actually a big deal to a lot of people (some of whom you barely know) for some reason or another.
I didn’t find out what my first two were but it was very exiting waiting to see what came out. However, although we didn’t do the pink and blue thing, it’s a lot easier to buy stuff if you know what you’re buying for.
Family Affairs
July 19, 2017Still think it’s a step too far…but that’s probably because I’m cynical and old! Maybe I’d be doing the same if I was 20 years younger….Lx