Controlling Controllers

Whether you are a boy or a girl, you have probably experienced some kind of gender stereotyping. Even when I was young I hated the colour pink and dresses, but like most girls I was forced to wear matching pink shirts and pants. I had Polly Pockets and Barbies, but I loved to escape to my best friend's home (who was a girl) and play with Ninja Turtles and Creepy Crawlers. It was something completely foreign to me, a room filled with toys that were not marketed towards girls. This goes both ways: boy should not be forced to carry around a baseball bat if they would prefer something with lace. If you want to paint the baby's room, paint it green or purple or even light orange! Your child will eventually think for him or herself. You might as well start showing that you can support their (obviously non-life threatening) choices early.

Many people need to realize that although you can control a child when he/she is young, he/she will develop their own wonderful personality. Why not show them a home where they feel accepted no matter what? Gender stereotypes do not only create standards, they also create stigma and sometimes discrimination against those who do not fit the mold.

Post written by Heather Whitney