Blake Lively Advocates for Teach Kids This Time of Year About Their Boundaries

The holiday season often brings extended family and friends together, creating moments of joy but also challenges, especially when it comes to personal boundaries involving children. Blake Lively, a mother of four and former “Gossip Girl” star, recently took to Instagram to highlight the significance of teaching children about boundaries during this festive time. As parents ourselves, we resonate deeply with her message.

In a video shared by The TODAY Show and captured by Katie Love, Santa Claus is seen with his arm around a 3-year-old named Adley. When Adley expresses her reluctance to sit on Santa’s lap, the jolly figure responds with wisdom. He acknowledges, “This is her body, and she’s in control of her body.” Santa then praises Adley for standing up for herself and articulating her beliefs. Lively, impressed by the empowering interaction, reposted the video on her Instagram story, expressing her support for the young girl’s understanding of her body and boundaries.

Lively emphasizes the importance of instilling these lessons in children, especially during a season filled with encounters with both strangers and family members. In her Instagram story, she commends the little girl for recognizing and asserting her boundaries. Lively advocates for teaching children that it is their body, and they are not responsible for making adults feel comfortable. Drawing from her own experiences, she reminds parents that just because certain behaviors were normalized in the past doesn’t mean they should be perpetuated.

The video, featuring Santa Claus promoting a message of empowerment and bodily autonomy, has garnered widespread attention, resonating with many parents. Lively’s repost and supportive message further amplify the significance of instilling these values in children.

In addition to this recent advocacy, both Blake Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, have been actively involved in imparting important life lessons to their four children. Reynolds has shared that they prioritize self-awareness in their parenting approach, aiming to equip their kids with the tools to navigate the challenges of childhood. This commitment to fostering self-awareness aligns with their belief that contemporary parenting requires a different approach, one that acknowledges the evolving nature of childhood experiences.

In conclusion, Blake Lively’s advocacy for teaching children about boundaries during the holiday season serves as a powerful reminder for parents to prioritize their children’s autonomy and self-awareness. As the season brings families together, it is crucial to empower children to express their boundaries, fostering a sense of agency that will benefit them throughout their lives.