Even though most parents agree that children should be treated equally regardless of gender in early childhood, research demonstrates that male and female children are nonetheless treated differently in ways that reinforce gender stereotypes. For example, if a youngster is told he is a guy, parents will treat him rougher than if the child is told he is a girl.

According to studies, moms are more accepting of their children behaving in ways that contradict traditional gender stereotypes (such as young boys sobbing when they are sad) than fathers. And both moms and fathers were more comfortable encouraging female children to play in ways that are often associated with males, such as playing with trucks, than encouraging male children to play in ways that correspond to the gender norms for girls, such as playing with dolls.

Parents and educators must collaborate to establish inclusive environments for children of various gender identities and to combat gender stereotypes in the early childhood classroom. Here are a few ways that adults can assist in creating these safe environments for children.

Keep your language in check.

Make certain that your language with children does not represent stereotyped gender roles. For example, in the context of conventional gender norms, you could change the wording of popular songs that mention “he” or “she,” or name male or female names, and change the pronouns to “them” or switch to the opposite pronoun. Simply say “everyone” instead of “boys and girls” when addressing a group of children. It may appear to be a little detail, but this inclusive wording goes a long way toward instilling in children’s minds that males and females are equal.

Recognize your own beliefs.

Before adults can effectively build inviting places for children that challenge gender stereotypes, they must first examine their ideas and biases. Parents and educators frequently demand and encourage different behaviors from boys than from girls, whether subconsciously or intentionally. Adults must continuously assess whether their words, attitudes, and behaviors are consistent to overcome gender stereotypes.

Observe and make adjustments

Examine how children naturally play to see whether there are any activities or toys that males prefer more than females or vice versa. Then, make changes to the play spaces to make them more gender-inclusive. For example, if boys dominate the block-playing area, make sure there is a range of colors of blocks or tape drawings to some of the blocks to encourage story-telling. If the dress-up or costume section is dominated by girls, make sure there have enough costumes and accessories for physicians, superheroes, and firefighters. Not only does this inspire girls to explore costumes that have traditionally been associated with male-dominated jobs and play, but it may also attract more boys to a female-dominated costume play area.

Early infancy is a critical period in a child’s development of gender identity. Parents and educators must be mindful of fostering safe and accepting environments for children to explore gender expression without being constrained by outdated and harmful gender norms. Adults can help to challenge gender stereotypes in early childhood spaces by acknowledging personal attitudes about gender roles, using inclusive language, and watching and changing the play area.