It's no secret that gender roles play a huge part in the way toy manufacturers market their products. Girls' products tend to be in pink packaging and boys' tend to be in blue. Right or wrong, if we are shown a toy box that's pink, without seeing what's inside we will assume it is for a girl. Well, the girl in this video wants to let the world know how she really feels about this phenomenon.
It's remarkable for someone her age to point a poignant finger at companies who "try to trick" girls into wanting certain toys and not others. She understands that she is being manipulated into thinking she knows what she actually likes, when in fact she points out that she might like super heroes as much as the boys. There is obviously nothing stopping her dad from buying her super hero toys, but her argument is more about feeling like these toys aren't suitable for her just because she's a girl. Likewise, she points out that boys are told they have to like super heroes and aren't supposed to like dolls.
I definitely think a child who can think this rationally and critically at her age is truly impressive. Furthermore, she is able to articulate a very complex concept in the heat of frustration. Her father is clearly very proud of her, and I hope she continues to question and observe the world around her. It's children like her who end up making a positive difference in the world.
What do you think of her stance regarding toy manufacturers? For those of you who are currently parents, how would you feel if your daughter wanted a Spiderman toy? Would you feel differently if your son wanted a Barbie doll? These are questions that are meant to make us reflect and respond, and there is no right or wrong answer. I think it's just rare and awesome that someone so young can evoke such a strong emotion.
Share
Tweet