Removing gender labels

Degendering your words, actions, and environment creates amazing opportunities for your children to cultivate their identities without falling into constraints based on stereotypes. We’ve got 5 tips you’ll want to incorporate into your home as your family shifts away from gender-based norms and into a world of inclusion.

Don’t Assume

Stay away from overgeneralizing. Teachers aren’t always women, and policemen doesn’t accurately represent the civilian workforce. As your kids engage in play and exploration, work to incorporate language that allows flexible roles based on interests instead of gender.

Practice Inclusive Language

One of the biggest detriments of stereotypes is the limits that come with them. Try changing your language to include ‘everyone’ instead of one singular group.

“Pink is a color. Colors are for everyone.”

“Action figures are toys. Toys are for everyone.”

“Ballet is great exercise. Dancing is for everyone.”

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Reflect Out Loud

Outwardly acknowledging missteps teaches your children that mistakes can be used to learn and grow. Take opportunities to recognize and make teachable moments out of misguided thoughts, actions, or words as you work to create a non-biased environment.

Learn Through Literature

Reading is one of the most impactful ways to create natural and meaningful conversations with your kids. Books offer the opportunity to explore experiences that may be similar or completely different than those of your family. Wanting to grow your library? Check out our top literary picks for Pride Month:

• Jamie Is Jamie: A Book About Being Yourself and Playing Your Way

• Julián Is a Mermaid

• My Shadow Is Purple

• How to Be a Real Man

• Bye Bye, Binary

• The Pronoun Book

• Eugene The Unicorn: A Kid's Book To Help Start LGBTQ Inclusive Conversations

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CHECK OUT MORE KIDS READING RECS HERE:

Book recs: Reading with The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

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Words Matter

Focusing on the impact of your words inevitably increases the amount of praise you give to your children without boxing them into outdated gender-based restrictions. Instead of giving compliments solely on perceived notions of femininity and masculinity, focus on direct affirmations that promote self-worth.

“I like the way you styled yourself today.”

“I noticed how hard you’re working at basketball.”

“You’re such a mathematician!”

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How are you removing gender levels in your home? We’d love to hear about your experiences! Take a quick click over to theCityMoms and create your free membership profile to connect with our community and share messages, stories, and more with moms around the country.