Gender Typing of Children's Toys ― How Early Play Experiences Impact Development

What is the difference between “boy toys” and “girl toys?” What social, cognitive, and biological factors influence the design and marketing of gender-typed toys, and children’s interest in such toys? What are the long term implications of gendered toy play, for children’s development and later adult roles?

In this volume, scholars in developmental psychology, education, and neuroscience examine the fascinating intersection of gender and child play. Contributors consider the innumerable ways in which toys today are gender-typed, alongside the expression of gender preferences in early childhood. As research shows, children who play with different kinds of toys reap different cognitive, emotional, and social benefits. Toys teach children various skills, including lessons about how they should or should not behave. Gender-typed play, therefore, both reflects and codifies gender stereotypes and constrains children’s later social roles. With theoretically and empirically-based play interventions, as well as ongoing campaigns aimed at raising public awareness, this volume offers a clear blueprint for how researchers, clinicians, parents and activists can help reduce gender stereotypes and help children grow up to become the people they want to be.

Erica S. Weisgram, PhD, is professor of psychology at University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point (UWSP). Her research focuses broadly on gender development in children, adolescents, and young adults. Her recent work explores the cognitive construction of stereotypes in preschool children and how cultural stereotypes affect children’s interest in toys. She also examines how gender and gender-related factors (e.g., stereotypes, values, familial roles) affect individuals’ occupational and academic interests with a specific focus on girls’ and women’s interest in math and science occupations. Dr. Weisgram earned her bachelor’s degree at Luther College and her PhD at The University of Texas at Austin. She is the 2016 winner of the UWSP Justus Paul Sabbatical Award and the UWSP Excellence in Teaching Award.

Lisa M. Dinella, PhD, is a research scientist who investigates the relations between gender, academic achievement, and career development. Dr. Dinella studies children’s toy play and media exposure, and how gendered experiences shape academic and career pursuits across the lifespan. She is principal investigator of the Gender Development Laboratory at Monmouth University, where she is associate professor of psychology and affiliated faculty member of Gender Studies. Her school-based research endeavors led to her edited book Conducting Science-Based Psychology Research in Schools. Dr. Dinella recently presented on gender disparities in children’s media and toys at The White House in Washington, DC. She drew from her research to provide key recommendations to toy, media, and youth-serving organizations on how to break down gender stereotypes.