Parenting and Gender Stereotypes (continued)

Suggestions for Parents

As parents, it is important to remember that the ideals of genderequality apply to both genders. Research shows that children who have androgynous views of careers are more likely to select careers that fit their likes and dislikes, rather than stereotypes of what is appropriate for men and women. As parents who want happy children who will one day become successful, satisfied adults, we should remind our children that they can be whoever they want to be. We should seek out examples of people who defy gender stereotypes. Take your children to a female doctor with a male nurse. Introduce your children to a female architect or engineer. Take your children to a ballet with male and female performers. Read books with your children about female mechanics, male violinists, and female philosophers.

We should remember that we have a critical role in the development of our children’s self-concepts, interests, and career goals. As such, it is important that we cultivate open lines of communication with our children. Just as we talk with our children about staying away from drugs and taking responsibility for our actions, we should also talk to them about careers and the world of work. Discuss your career with your children and around your children. This helps children, from a very young age, understand that employment makes up a major portion of adult life and, ideally, employment should be enjoyable and fulfilling. Introduce your children to people in a variety of careers, and encourage them to think about how their educational choices (such as advanced math or honors-level English) may influence their career choices. For example, courses in advanced math will prepare your student for an array for career options, such as engineering or computer science, that may not seem possible without such experiences. Similarly, more rigorous English courses help students build confidence with written communication, a skill that is critical in almost any occupational field. When your child shows a passion for something, such as public speaking, take a moment to discuss careers in which public speaking is an important skill. Most importantly, consider your own behavior and beliefs, and be alert to opportunities to change them. These simple steps can encourage your child to keep doors open for many possibilities in life, unfettered by gender stereotypes.

Resources for Parents, Children, and Teens

Books that Counter Gender-Stereotypes

• E. Browne and D. Parkins (1996). Tick-Tock. Newtown, Australia: Walker Books.
  Intended for children in preschool through grade 2, this book tells the story of Skip Squirrel and her friend Brainy (also a girl). The friends break Skip’s mother’s cuckoo clock and set off on an adventure to get the clock fixed before Skip’s mother returns home. They visit a mechanic, a shoemaker, and a gadget-repairer – all female characters.
• Robert N. Munsch and Michael Martchenko (1992). The Paper Bag Princess. Toronto: Annick Press.
  This book, as well as others by Munsch, turns the traditional story of a prince, a princess, and a fire-breathing dragon on its end. Princess Elizabeth rescues Prince Ronald from a dragon by using bravery and smarts and, when the prince complains that she is no longer pretty, Elizabeth walks off into the sunset – by herself. All ages.

Books for Children and Teens about Careers