In many ways, I feel as if my gender did not affect me at all as a child. Although I believe this is due to the fact I never had any negative experiences regarding this.

By using the word “gender”, we are identifying and highlighting the difference between the two sexes, and in turn, categorising them. In Jill Shimi’s lecture, she highlighted the difference between “sex” and “gender”. Sex being the biological make-up, and gender the social concept. This was interesting, as I previously hadn’t thought of the definitions of the two terms.

Growing up, I was always subconsciously dressed in “girls” clothes and given “girls” toys as gifts. This gave me messages from the very beginning that this was the norm, and until now I have never really thought about it. However, if I ever wanted to play with the stereotypical “boys” toy, I was never judged and always allowed to do so. By allowing this, I never felt pressured into what I could and could not play with giving me a freedom of choice.

In school, I remember both the girls and the boys being treated fairly. All my teachers were equally as encouraging towards the boys as the girls. This was encouraging to all and I will be doing the same when I am a teacher, every child should be treated fairly and none favoured over others. I believe gender doesn’t matter within the classroom, everyone should have the same opportunities and be given the same encouragement.

http://blush.com.pk/gender-imposition-on-kids-are-we-taking-it-a-step-too-far/gender_roles_layout111/