We all know by now how harmful gender stereotypes can be.
And not just for women but men as well.
From education to work to family, society has always put unfair expectations on both men and women.
For those who choose not to conform to any gender identities at all, this reality is compounded.
We see this play out all the time in the real world.
For example when it comes to parenthood, we experience what is known as the ‘motherhood penalty’. Women who are pregnant, TTC or have children tend to be passed off for promotions.
Only recently are we seeing a ‘fatherhood penalty’ as well where the same kind of workplace discrimination is being experienced by men.
This is not to mention the judgement we see a lot from family and friends towards the ‘working mum, stay-at-home dad’ arrangement that many couples enjoy.
In order to end this vicious cycle, we have to start from the bottom – with our kids.
If you’re looking to pave the way for a more equal and fair world, it’s time to teach your children a few things about breaking gender roles.
Raising children without gender role stigma can help foster a more inclusive and equal society and that is a win for everyone – man, woman and every gender in between.
Here are some tips on how to reverse gender roles and raise your children without stigma.
7 Ways to Reverse Gender Roles
Support Their Interests
Probably the best way to break gender norms is to avoid judging or discouraging your child’s interests. Especially if they enjoy doing things that are not typically the norm for their gender.
If your son loves fashion designing or your daughter loves aggressive sports, allow them explore those interests.
Encourage your kids to pursue activities and hobbies based on their passions, rather than societal expectations.
Whether it’s sports, arts, science, or any other field, provide them with the resources and support to explore and develop their talents.
Lead by Example
The most direct way you can break gender norms in the home is to practice it in your marriage.
This is not a problem if you and your spouse naturally take over each other’s responsibilities.
Show your children that household chores, caregiving responsibilities, and decision-making are not limited to one gender.
Share household tasks equally with your partner and involve your children in age-appropriate chores to teach them that responsibilities are not based on gender but on contributing as part of a team.
This goes for self-expression too, not just duties or chores.
For example, the colours you wear, the books you read, or the music you listen to. These are all various expressions of gender that you can break and reverse.
Promote Gender-neutral Toys and Activities
We all see so many gendered kids things from books to bags to clothes.
Boys are expected to play with footballs and girls should only play with dolls.
But is this really the kind of backward idea we’re still perpetuating?
Encourage your children to explore a wide range of toys and activities without restricting them based on gender stereotypes.
Provide them with a variety of options, such as blocks, puzzles, art supplies, sports equipment, and dolls, so they can choose based on their interests rather than societal expectations.
Avoid Perpetuating Gender Norms
You’d be surprised at all the gender stereotyped objects and ideas that surround us on a daily basis. Sometimes, even as adults we can fall into the same trap.
So, to foster a gender-neutral environment, be mindful of the language you use.
This is especially true when referring to occupations, activities, and characteristics.
Use gender-neutral terms whenever possible to convey that anyone can pursue any career or engage in any activity regardless of their gender.
This even goes for things like colours, clothes, forms of entertainment, personal belongings and even nicknames.
Encourage Open Conversations
Children are naturally curious.
They have questions about all sorts of things including body parts, sex, and of course, gender. They’re never too young to learn about these things in a safe, inclusive way.
Create a safe space where your children can freely express themselves and ask questions about gender roles, stereotypes, and societal expectations.
Engage in open discussions, listen actively, and provide age-appropriate answers that promote equality and understanding.
Be Mindful of Media Influence
Monitor the media your children consume and encourage critical thinking about gender representation.
Discuss and challenge stereotypes and biases they may encounter in books, TV shows, movies, and advertisements.
Possibly one of the earliest forms of gender norms that your child will experience is fairy tales.
While there have been many such storybooks rewritten from a feminist perspective, try out these other books instead.
Shatter those Gender Norms
But most importantly, you should also be okay if they are more comfortable doing things within their traditionally assigned gender roles.
The purpose of fostering a gender-neutral, inclusive home is not necessarily to raise gender-neutral kids.
It’s to allow your child to explore and experiment gender various roles in a safe and conducive way. And to respect and normalise them to gender reversals in other people
Remember, reversing gender roles is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort and awareness.
By creating an environment that challenges stereotypes and promotes equality, you can help your children grow into individuals who value diversity, respect others, and pursue their dreams without limitations.
You’ve got this, my fellow parents!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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