Gender stereotypes shape our lives long before we are aware of them. From kindergarten onwards, children are confronted with gendered expectations that influence their play, their learning and even their perception of their abilities. Yet these prejudices, often unconscious, can limit their potential and fuel persistent inequalities. So how do gender stereotypes manifest themselves in education, and what can we do to deconstruct them?

Gender stereotypes: a reality from an early age

     Gendered toys and activities: roles assigned in early childhood

Even before they start school, children are exposed to gender-coded choices of toys and activities. Dolls, kitchens and princess costumes are often associated with girls, while cars, building sets and superheroes are for boys.

These choices, though seemingly trivial, contribute to the internalization of gendered roles. One study reveals that 76% of parents believe that certain toys are "more suitable" for one sex than the other. This conditioning limits children's ability to explore and learn a variety of skills.

     At school: not always a neutral space

School, supposedly a place of equality, can also reproduce these stereotypes. In the classroom, boys are often perceived as more "logical" or "dynamic", while girls are seen as "applied" or "quiet".

The impact of gender stereotypes on children

     On self-confidence

Gender stereotypes directly affect children's perception of their abilities. A girl who regularly hears that science is "more difficult" or "less for girls" is likely to doubt her ability in these subjects. Similarly, a boy may feel discouraged from expressing his emotions, as this would be perceived as "weak".

     On school and career choices

These stereotypes also influence children's educational and career paths. Girls are still under-represented in scientific and technological fields, while fewer boys choose careers in education or care.

According to a recent survey, only 28% of women work in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, mathematics)a gap that has its roots in childhood.

How to deconstruct gender stereotypes in education?

     Raising awareness among parents and teachers

The first step in deconstructing stereotypes is to acknowledge their existence. Parents and teachers need to be trained to identify unconscious biases and adopt a neutral approach:

• • Offer a variety of activities, without gender labeling.
  • Encourage girls and boys to explore all subjects and games, without restriction.

     Adapting teaching content

Textbooks and educational materials still reflect gendered representations. For more egalitarian learning:

• • Include inspirational figures of both sexes in all areas.
  • Avoid illustrations or examples that perpetuate stereotyped roles (e.g. a mom who cooks and a dad who works).

     Creating an inclusive environment

Finally, it is essential to cultivate an environment where each child feels free to be himself, without fear of judgment:

• • Create mixed play areas where children can express their tastes without pressure.
  • Promote group activities that value cooperation over competition.

Towards a more egalitarian education

Combating gender stereotypes in education doesn't happen overnight. It requires collective awareness and concerted action at home, at school and in society. By offering children a more neutral and open environment, we enable them to develop their full potential, without being locked into predefined roles.

Egalitarian education, which values the skills of each individual, is not only beneficial for children, but also for building a fairer, more balanced society.

The Soft Kids team 🌈