This guest post comes to us from one of our Emily Rose @Home founder’s, Sarah Dineen – go for it Sarah…

This post has required some thought on my part because up until last May, I spent the previous 13 years raising American Boys.  I think that many of the values that are instilled in my children are the same regardless of their gender, however, I do see that there are some new avenues I will have to explore!

I am fortunate enough to have this wonderful group of founding members and Lisa Marie to count on when it comes to ideas for doing things with my daughter.  Even though Jordan is only 9 months old, she will be playing with all of my Emily Rose products in no time and with all of the ideas that the Emily Rose Blog offers it will be very exciting to watch her develop into a great young lady!

I have had to depend a lot on my imagination and that of my 7 year old son, who is so excited about Emily Rose @ Home, to come up with ideas to attract people to our business.  Tyler didn’t waste any time telling everyone he could think of at school about the home parties and ER products!  I know it doesn’t seem traditional, but even though he is a boy, Tyler, has some great ideas for crafts and activities.  I have made a point of raising my children to not treat any activity, interest or profession as gender specific because no one should feel they are limited because of being a boy or girl.  This has really helped me see how kids like to play with dolls and gives me ideas to share with others.  The dolls that I use for demos get to “cook”, “have get-togethers with their friends” and even “respond to emergencies” when my boys play with them.

I think that Emily Rose really encourages imagination and hands on play in a world where kids are so overwhelmed with electronic options of entertainment.  It is really important to allow our children to have the down time that allows them to make up storylines and act out ideas with their dolls, stuffed animals or any other character toy that they choose.  It is phenomenal that the trading cards were developed.  These starting points of play and conversation are so important to independent thinking and really are a great addition to the ER line of products.

I want to thank you for allowing me the opportunity to express my thoughts and for taking the time to read my entry!!

Sarah Dineen