As a general rule of thumb, feminist parenting believes in raising children without any gender differences. Some of the very simple things in this are to allow boys to wear pink and to play with dolls if they so choose. Feminist parenting also works on the belief that parenting can be done equally well by men and women, in a classic two parent household (man and woman), a same-sex two parent household or in a single parent household.

CRAP – Child Rearing Against Patriarchy

CRAP is a collective that was started by radical feminists, who believe that society is patriarchal in nature and this can only be overthrown by changing the status quo and the mindset of people. This starts by raising children, boys and girls, who do not agree with a patriarchal society. Feminist parenting through CRAP is a lot of hard work and means you have to be very active in trying to make a change.

The Steps of CRAP

1. Integrate – childcare should be available everywhere and as a parent, you should insist on it. If there is no childcare in your workplace, you should demand it or refuse to work.
2. Television – do not allow your children to watch television programs, in particular advertisements. Many advertisements still reinforce the gender divide that exists in society today. Censor what is being watched by choosing videos or DVDs that do not focus on a gender divide.
3. Honesty – you, as a parent, are the biggest influence on your child’s life. If you show your child that you believe in certain gender divides, then your child will pick this up. Just as if you were to be homophobic or racist.
4. Expression – if you decide to follow the nine steps of CRAP, you will probably feel like banging your head against a brick wall on many occasions. You will need some release of energy and stress, so why not buy a magazine and draw moustaches and devil’s horns on the pictures of the latest celebrity yummy mummy for example? Also try to be in contact with other women who follow feminist parenting.
5. Research– know what you are talking about. Make sure you give your child the best (like breast feeding), but if you take on a burden only you can carry, ensure your partner takes on another burden (like laundry).
6. Fight over important things – your children need to be able to live. If you tell them Barbie is the source of all evil every time you see one in a shop, they will only become interested in them.

What Else Can You Do?

Many who follow feminist parenting home school or start a school with like-minded parents. Also, if other people give your children toys that you find reinforce the gender divide, throw them away. Don’t give them to charity as that will only mean someone else will continue to reinforce a patriarchal society. And, of course, get involved in activism and have your children actively participate!