Actually, I think the author makes a very valid point. Children today should not become slaves to the gender roles society places on them. That can actually do more harm in the long run. I live in a smaller city, where young people drive themselves crazy trying to look and act according to their gender expectations so they are not rejected by their friends. I often wonder how many gay and lesbian youth actually feel pressured into relationships with someone of the opposite gender just so they can fit in with their peers.

I have heard many stories of this happening, and the result is inevitably disastrous, leading to suicide and/or substance abuse down the road.  In 2017, everyone should feel comfortable being themselves, and  I don't think having her son take ballet classes is forcing anything on him, but just showing him that when it comes to life, ones gender should not even be an issue, or an impediment to their interests.