Breaking Gender Norms: Toys Have No Gender

The Impact of Toys on Children’s Upbringing and Education

Itziar Gómez, a consultant on diversity and inclusion, references a study by the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media that reveals 71% of children fear being ridiculed for playing with toys traditionally associated with the opposite gender. This fear highlights the persistence of outdated gender stereotypes that limit children’s development and expression. Gómez emphasizes that toys are vital tools for learning and growth, and restricting them by gender deprives children of essential skills. She encourages choosing gifts that promote a just, equitable, and inclusive world where children can play and grow without the constraints of gender stereotypes.

How Are Gender Stereotypes Perpetuated Through Play?

Adults often assign gender to toys and guide children’s choices based on assumptions about what they will enjoy or what aligns with their gender. Packaging and colors also signal which gender a toy is intended for: cars, action heroes, and science or adventure toys for boys; dolls, crafts, and housework simulation toys for girls. These categorizations reinforce traditional gender roles and biased stereotypes.

For instance, boys are often encouraged to be more aggressive, dominant, and inclined towards science and mathematics. Conversely, girls are steered towards being sensitive, nurturing, and passive, often choosing caring professions. Additionally, the prevalence of makeup and fashion toys, along with extremely thin dolls, contributes to early-onset eating disorders among girls.

How to Avoid Perpetuating Gender Stereotypes

To prevent the continuation of sexist roles, parents need to be mindful of the toys they purchase. Here’s how:

1. **Avoid Toys with Traditional Stereotypes:** Discard toys that carry outdated gender stereotypes.
2. **Think Beyond Pink and Blue:** Embrace a wide palette of colors that don’t carry gender connotations.
3. **Choose Unisex and Cooperative Toys:** Opt for toys that encourage teamwork and don’t promote gender differentiation or violence.
4. **Provide Diverse Learning Opportunities:** The more variety and richness in toys at home, the more learning opportunities for children.
5. **Promote Physical Exercise and Manual Work:** Encourage activities that develop physical and manual skills.
6. **Encourage Cross-Gender Play:** Allow boys and girls access to toys traditionally assigned to the opposite gender.
7. **Select Neutral Packaging:** Choose toys with neutral packaging that features people of both genders.

By being conscious of these factors, we can foster an environment where children are free to explore and develop without the constraints of gender stereotypes.