Are Toy Guns and Superheroes Bad for Boys? with Gen Muir

Are we raising boys all wrong? Are toy guns, superheroes and rough-and-tumble play harmless fun, or could they be shaping the men our sons become? In this episode of The Parenting Police, Sean Szeps is joined by parenting expert, bestselling author and mum of four boys Gen Muir to investigate the world of boys' toys, masculinity and what it really takes to raise kind, confident and emotionally intelligent boys. From LEGO and superheroes to Nerf guns and pretend fighting, Gen challenges common parenting fears and explores how play can help children develop empathy, creativity, social skills and connection. They also unpack gender stereotypes, the growing anxiety around toxic masculinity, and why boys aren't born with less empathy than girls — but may need more support learning how to express their emotions. Plus, Gen shares a simple family ritual that gets even the most reluctant kids talking about their feelings. This is a funny, honest and reassuring conversation that challenges what we think we know about raising boys, and reminds parents that there's nothing wrong with letting kids be themselves. LINKS : Follow @connectedparentingau on Instagram More from Gen Muir: connectedparenting.com.au Get the High Low Buffalo cards Get Gen's latest book 'Why Kids Need Boundaries: A parent’s guide to reducing the overwhelm and increasing connection by setting limits that work' Check out Gen's podcast 'Beyond The Chaos' MORE FROM SEAN SZEPS: Watch The Parenting Police on YouTube Follow Sean (@seanszeps) on Instagram Like Sean on Facebook CREDITS: Host: Sean Szeps Guest: Gen Muir Video Producer/Editor: Aidan Parkes Theme song co-written and produced by Josh Pyke Executive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Ceci Herbert Follow @novapodcastsofficial on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind-the-scenes content See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.