Toddler Emotional Issues - Gender Sterotypes
Gender differences
All children develop at their own rate and there will always be exceptions to any rule. None of my children (2 girls 2 boys) particularly fitted in with the statements below.
Boys
- Boys are noisier and more boisterous.
- They are into everything and on a mission to explore.
- They are clingier than girls.
- They tend to cry more as babies and toddlers.
Girls
- Girls often talk earlier.
- Girls are easier to potty train
- They walk earlier.
How you can avoid gender stereotyping with toddlers
- Provide a range of toys to play with aimed at both girls and boys.
- Encourage all children to feel like they can achieve anything.
- Get girls to run around, let off steam and make a noise. Play tag, take a ball for a kick about or jump in puddles.
- Sit with boys to do quiet activities such as reading, painting and crafts and baking.
- Read books to them and watch TV programmes with them that challenge traditional stereotypes.
But it’s also important to remember that if your daughter (or son) wants to spend her time dressed as a princess playing Barbie that’s fine. Just as it is for your son (or daughter), to run round getting covered in mud, aiming to be the next David Beckham. As long as they are happy and secure then that’s ok. Challenge the stereotypes, but don’t feel like you have to destroy them.
