In the 1970s, my mother embarked on a unique experiment with me and my brother: she provided me with toy trucks while giving him dolls to demonstrate that our play preferences were shaped by societal norms rather than inherent tendencies. Although her hypothesis was unscientific, her intentions were commendable. Fast forward to today, and my 5-year-old daughter is already expressing disdain for toys she deems “for boys.” From her perspective, I can understand why; “girl” items are often adorned with pink frills and glitter, while “boy” toys tend to feature darker, more industrial aesthetics. The pressure to choose based on gender stereotypes is still prevalent, and I find it just as unappetizing as my mother’s carob chip experiments. Why must we maintain such rigid distinctions? Is it really necessary to categorize interests as princesses versus trucks?
Here are five suggestions to assist our daughters in embracing a wider spectrum of interests:
1. Engage in Sports Together
It’s common to assume that only boys are interested in sports, particularly in households where the mother may not show much interest. Recently, while watching the Women’s World Cup, my daughter was thrilled to see an all-female team. I encourage my partner to pause the game and explain strategies to her, just as he does for our son—swear words may be an unintended side effect, but that’s a small price to pay.
2. Opt for Gender-Neutral Clothing
Steer clear of the typical pinks, ruffles, and sparkles whenever possible. Brands like Primary offer stylish clothing in a spectrum of colors that don’t scream “THIS IS MY GENDER.” Plus, everything is affordably priced under $25.
3. Encourage Coding Skills
As we move further into the 21st century, coding has become an essential skill. Organizations like Girls Who Code and CoderDojo provide valuable resources and classes. Without fostering these skills, we risk a future dominated by apps focused solely on traditional “girl” themes. For more information on how to get started, visit this link.
4. Foster Cross-Gender Friendships
Encourage friendships with children of all genders and consider steering clear of all-girl birthday parties. My son has a close friend who is a girl, and we actively create opportunities for them to nurture their friendship outside school’s gender divisions.
5. Diverse Reading Material
Provide your daughters with a variety of books, including Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Big Nate, Hardy Boys, Tintin, and graphic novels. Just because a book cover features pastel colors or stereotypical themes, it doesn’t mean that’s the only option available. For older girls, emphasize that reading about boys is one of the best ways to understand them—this might just pique their interest.
In conclusion, by introducing diverse interests, we can help our daughters break free from limiting gender stereotypes and explore a world of possibilities.
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