what I’m reading lately
Raising Emotionally Strong Boys by David Thomas
“Limiting screen time will always be a battle worth fighting when it comes to boys. They desperately need limits in this area, and they always need the benefit of time outdoors.” - David Thomas
I started listening to Raising Emotionally Strong Boys by David Thomas because raising boys comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to managing big emotions. One of the biggest takeaways from this book is how crucial it is to support boys' emotional health. Boys often need an outlet for their energy and emotions, and David Thomas highlights how limiting screen time can give them the space to express themselves in healthier ways—like through outdoor play.
Think about it: when our boys are glued to screens, they aren’t given the time or space to process their emotions, enabling them to become what David calls “emotionally lazy”. Screens can distract them or numb them, but they don’t help them work through what they’re feeling. Thomas encourages us to reduce those screen hours so that our boys have more opportunities to release their energy, explore their emotions, and develop resilience.
And let’s not forget the power of nature. Thomas emphasizes that outdoor time plays a massive role in this process. Boys don’t just need the outdoors to burn off steam; they need it to ground themselves, reset their emotions, build confidence, feel purposeful. There’s something about being outside—whether it's running, climbing, or simply exploring—that helps boys work through their feelings in a way that screens never can.
So, let’s reflect for a minute:
How much of your son’s emotional health might be tied to how much screen time he’s getting?
Have you noticed a difference in his mood or behavior after a day of outdoor play compared to a day spent inside with devices?
What simple changes could you make this week to create more opportunities for outdoor time?
For me, I’m always thinking about how to sneak in more outdoor play. It doesn’t have to be complicated—sometimes just heading to the park or a bike ride together around the neighborhood is enough. David Thomas reminds us that the outdoors offers so much more than we realize. It’s a place for our boys to let go, to be free, and to work through their feelings in a healthy way - physically, mentally, and spiritually.
If you’ve been feeling like screen time is creeping in a little too much, or if your son seems either emotionally stuck or experiences emotional highs and lows, I highly recommend this book. It will motivate you to pursue the heart of your son because this kind of work matters deeply. It’s full of practical advice on raising emotionally strong boys—and it reminded me that our boys need the outdoors now more than ever.
So, what will you do this week to make more space for outdoor play in your son’s life?
