During my time as Host of The Sons Channel @ BellaOnline, I have been asked many different questions about raising boys. Some questions were comical ("How can I help my little boy work on his "aim" while using the toilet?"); others heartwarming ("Will I ever have as much love in my heart for my baby-to-be as I do for my first born son?"). The common thread I have found throughout is that these questions come from parents, just like you and me, who only want what is best for their sons.

In Part 1 of of this series, I review some of the most commonly and frequently asked questions I have received from readers of The Sons Channel and The Sons Forum, and also include my replies.

Question #1 comes from a Mom of four - all boys - who told me the only other female in the house was their pet cat! She wrote:

"Help! I am the only woman in the male dominated household. I have 4 young sons and a husband who don´t know the meaning of the word privacy! I cannot take a shower or use the facilities without someone barging in on me. Likewise, if I am in my bedroom with the door closed for any length of time, eventually one of them will come in without knocking to ask a question, or to just see what I am doing. How can I make them see that I need some private time once in a while?"

Answer: The first thing that jumped out at me was the fact that your husband is as oblivious to your right to privacy as your sons are. Children learn from their parents! If your boys see your husband interrupting you in the shower, they will do the same. He needs to set a better example in front of your sons by respecting your time alone, whether you are in the bathroom or reading a book! You also need to sit down as a family and review the rules of the household. Let them know that if the door is closed, it means a knock is required...and that they should not enter unless given permission! Although your boys are young now, there will come a time in their life when their privacy will mean everything to them. Let them know that you will afford them the same consideration that they give you.

Question #2 came from a single mom struggling to raise her newborn son on her own. Her concerns were similiar to those of many new moms:

"I have no men in my family besides my father. I know nothing about raising a child, much less a boy. Suddenly, I find myself a new mom to a son. Any advice?"

Answer: First off, remember that you are not alone! All new moms go through periods of self doubt and frustration. There are plenty of places you can turn to for advice, ideas and companionship. Reply upon your son´s pediatrician and your family members for assistance concerning your son´s care and well being. Your mom, for example, may be able to clue you in on feeding and diapering. There are also plenty of groups for both new moms and single moms, as well as moms of boys, which enable you to talk with other people in your situation. There is safety in numbers! Nothing is as reassuring as finding someone who knows what you are going through.

Question #3 was sent to me from a mom and dad of a preteen son:

"What is the most important lesson we can teach our 12 year old - one that he will carry with him into adulthood?"

Answer: There are many lessons we must teach our sons so they can grow up to be good men. One that stands out is the need for him to be true to himself. Another important message parents should send their son is to treat others as he would like to be treated. The most important thing we as parents need to remember when it comes to raising our sons is that they learn from what they see. The way you conduct yourself in everyday life and the values you have make a huge impact upon your children. Teach by example!

Be sure to read Part 2 of this series...Feel free to email me with any questions you may have about raising your son!