August 8, 2014
Researchers have noted that in kindergarten, boys and girls are equally interested in the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) professions. But, by the time they graduate from high school, male students are twenty times more likely than female students to have retained their interest in these fields!
Some researchers have suggested that, among other factors, gendered children’s toys may play a role.
When it comes to toys, female dolls and other characters are almost always babies, brides, or princesses, and are usually presented in “ultra-feminine” clothes and colors (thanks, Career Barbie collection). Fortunately, the Danish company, LEGO, is finally taking a step in a new direction by offering a collection featuring female characters in various STEM professions.
Today’s Link offers a visual snapshot of gender-themed toys— where they have been and how they might continue to evolve. While we might have to take extra time to seek them out, there are positive and realistic options for our youngsters. Barbie doesn’t get to dominate our girls’ playtime anymore.
See the toys and Gwynn Guilford’s Quartz article here.
posted by Corbin Lambeth
