Yesterday, my energetic three-year-old son, Jake, had a little mishap at the playground and ended up with a cut above his eye. While my daughter, Lily, enjoys her quiet time with books and dolls, Jake is your classic rough-and-tumble kid. He’s full of energy and isn’t afraid to show it. Even after his fall, he hardly cried—until I mentioned the idea of stitches, which brought on the tears. But that’s just who he is; he has a tough spirit.
Yet, despite his adventurous nature, he also has a fondness for Barbies.
After leaving the ER, feeling relieved but hungry, I swung by McDonald’s for some much-needed Happy Meals. The staff member at the drive-thru asked the usual questions: Would I like extra fries or apple slices? What about dipping sauce? When I handed the meals to my kids, I immediately noticed Jake’s disappointment as he saw Lily playing with her doll.
Then came the question from the attendant: “Is this meal for a boy or a girl?”
I quickly responded based on my kids’ genders, but as we parked and I opened the boxes, it struck me hard. Boys get cars, and girls get dolls.
Jake watched Lily comb her doll’s hair with envy, and within moments, he asked for a Barbie of his own. It made me reflect on how societal norms shape our children. For instance, my son can run around shirtless at the beach while my daughter must cover up. Boys use urinals, and girls are confined to stalls.
That question from McDonald’s suggested a stark message: I’m raising a boy who can be wild and free, while my daughter is expected to conform to societal standards of femininity. Why should toys be divided by gender? When did fast-food chains decide which toys boys and girls should like?
A week later, I returned to McDonald’s and ordered two Happy Meals, this time for “two girls,” handing one to Jake without hesitation. What’s wrong with a boy wanting a Barbie? Why can’t McDonald’s simply ask, “Would you like a car or a doll?” instead of assuming based on gender?
My son enjoys Barbies, and that doesn’t diminish his masculinity. In fact, it might just help him become a more compassionate father someday. Boys can be adventurous and bold while also being nurturing.
So, McDonald’s, our go-to stop when I need a break from cooking, please consider this: the next time my children come to your counter, present a list of toy choices without attaching gender labels.
If we want to create a society that embraces inclusivity and allows kids to explore their identities, it starts with the little ones. Give them the freedom to choose what they like. That’s the key to building a better future—one Barbie or Hot Wheel at a time.
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Summary:
This article discusses the limitations of gendered toys at fast-food restaurants like McDonald’s and emphasizes the importance of allowing children to make their own choices without societal constraints. It encourages a more inclusive approach to parenting and toy selection, advocating for the idea that interests shouldn’t be dictated by gender.
Keyphrase:
Gender-neutral toys
Tags:
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