In society , there are a lot of “rules” that are set up by people from the past and have trickled down to become stereotypes and norms. Some of these things have to do with gender .
From a very young age, kids are told what is “right and wrong” in terms of boys and girls. And, many times, this can become problematic .
Gender is a social construct that society places on young children.
Children are assigned a gender at birth, whether they are a boy or a girl.
However, throughout life, these genders can change and shift. Those who are biologically born male may discover that they are actually female. Or, gender-neutral, too.
There are many things in the world that are also gendered, not just people.
Many toys and products in the world are given a specific gender, for boys or girls.
For example, dolls and makeup are always assigned to girls while trucks and cars are assigned to boys. When kids play with the “wrong type of toys,” sometimes parents can make comments and be judgy.
There are many parents who fear what playing with the wrong toys means.
While some parents see toys as toys, others do see them as “gendered.”
And, they fear that if their kids play with the “wrong toys,” there are consequences and this can change the way they feel about themselves and the world.
One mom on TikTok is showing it doesn’t matter.
TikTok user Jess Katz shares many videos of her son and loves to showcase life as a mom.
Recently, she shared a video of her son playing with toys and hairbrushes. In the video, she said “fair enough,” and that toys aren’t gendered.
Katz showcases that she doesn’t care if her son plays with dolls.
She just wants her son to be happy and healthy, which, honestly, is what all parents truly want at the end of the day, am I right?
Many in the comments agreed with the mom.
Some people said that he is just a baby playing with another baby, wanting to be just like his mom.
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They said that they wish people would stop making kids feel bad about what toys they play with.
Another person pointed out that dolls are like babies.
One person said that they shouldn’t slam kids for playing with dolls because eventually, the guys grow up and become dads.
They need to take care of their own babies down the road so maybe, their dolls will be good practice.
Others said parents need to chill.
One person agreed that they do not understand why parents won’t let their kids play with dolls. They even added that this can end up setting their children for failure as adults.
Such as being deadbeat dads and not giving time and effort to their kids.
One commenter, however, called Jess’ son gay.
One person said that Jess’ son, clearly, is “gay” because he was playing with dolls and hairbrushes. But, Jess basically clapped back at the commenter by saying that either way, she doesn’t care. She just loves her son.
Many said that it’s a good thing he plays with dolls.
Some people said that it showcases that Jess’ son has empathy and good, nurturing instincts and, that’s not such a bad thing. It can mean he will grow up to be a kind and caring person.
Others loved Jess’ response.
Many said Jess was such a champ and showcased that she won’t let the haters online get to her.
Instead, she makes people realize that at the end of the day, the only thing that matters is loving your kids.
