When I was in the early days of researching how to better understand my oldest boy's development, I came across the book Wild Things: The Art of Nurturing Boys by Stephen James and David Thomas. The way they break down the stages and ages really resonated with me—it perfectly explained the behaviors I was seeing in my own boys. In that same spirit, I've organized all the content on Socks on the Floor around this framework of boyhood stages, making it easier for parents and caregivers like you to find the support most relevant to the season you're in right now.

Every podcast episode, practical guide, and supportive resource here is tagged by these stages so you can quickly get the content you need.

Scroll through the boyhood stages below to explore key attributes, typical behaviors, and the topics we'll dive into with experts, lived experiences, and practical guides to support you through every season of boyhood.

  • The Anchor (Ages 0–1)

    Theme of Stage: Security, Safety & Regulation

    What's Forming: Basic trust and attachment bonds, foundational emotional regulation.

    Typical Boy Behaviors or Traits: Crying for needs, cooing, smiling, early motor exploration like rolling and crawling.

    What Boys Need Most: Consistent caregiving, physical closeness, responsive feeding and soothing.

    The Message Being Wired: "The world is safe, and my needs will be met."

    How Socks on the Floor Supports You: Discussions on primary care taker attachment, sleep training and early bonding techniques

    Listen to Anchor Stage Experts

  • The Explorer (Ages 2–4)

    Theme of Stage: Exploration and Discovery

    What's Forming: Motor skills, curiosity, and basic independence.

    Typical Boy Behaviors or Traits: Active, curious, imaginative, demanding; boys explore the world aggressively and need safe outlets for energy.

    What Boys Need Most: Safe outlets for energy, boundaries, encouragement for play.

    The Message Being Wired:"It's okay to explore and learn through trial and error."

    How Socks on the Floor Supports You: Topics like managing tantrums, parental controls, device safety, and daycare transitions, nutrition.

    Listen to Explorer Stage Experts

  • The Lover (Ages 5–8)

    Theme of Stage: Affection and Emotional Connection

    What's Forming: Emotional sensitivity and secure attachments.

    Typical Boy Behaviors or Traits: Tender, affectionate, emotionally sensitive; boys adore parents but may fear things like the dark; crucial time for affection and building security.

    What Boys Need Most: Affection, reassurance, building security through routines.

    The Message Being Wired: "I am loved and can express my emotions."

    How Socks on the Floor Supports You: Conversations on schooling, ADHD, emotional regulation tools, screen time, physical activities, parental roles and influences

    Listen to Lover Stage Experts

  • The Individual (Ages 9–12)

    Theme of Stage: Independence and Identity Formation

    What's Forming: Self-concept and social skills.

    Typical Boy Behaviors or Traits: Seeking independence, withdrawing emotionally (often expressing feelings as anger); figuring out identity and fitting in.

    What Boys Need Most: Space to explore interests, guidance on fitting in, emotional support.

    The Message Being Wired: "I can be myself and still belong."

    How Socks on the Floor Supports You: Expert talks on bullying, early gaming habits, schooling choices, and building self-esteem, sports and extra circular activities

    Listen to Individual Stage Experts

  • The Wanderer (Ages 13–16)

    Theme of Stage: Rebellion and Self-Discovery

    What's Forming: Autonomy and critical thinking.

    Typical Boy Behaviors or Traits: Teenage rebellion, mood swings, questioning authority; oscillating between needing parents and wanting independence.

    What Boys Need Most: Boundaries with flexibility, open communication, role models.

    The Message Being Wired: "I can question and grow into my own person."

    How Socks on the Floor Supports You: Insights on addiction risks, devices and social media, gaming boundaries, and mental health, gut health, realtionships.

    Listen to Wanderer Stage Experts

  • The Warrior (Ages 18-22+)

    Theme of Stage: Responsibility and Purpose

    What's Forming: Adult identity and life skills.

    Typical Boy Behaviors or Traits: Stepping into adult responsibility, purpose, and strength.

    What Boys Need Most: Mentorship, accountability, opportunities for leadership.

    The Message Being Wired: "I have the strength to face life's challenges."

    How Socks on the Floor Supports You: Discussions on career guidance, financial advice, gambling awareness, healthy relationships, addictions, and independence.

    Listen to Warrior Stage Experts