Already in 1997, the scientists Cheryl Benard and Edit Schlafer realised how the choice of toys can foster gender typical interests. However, the shelves in the shops seem to get even more pink and blue. Putting the segregation by colour aside, the problem centres more on toys fostering or inhibiting specific interests and competences. Thus, children are allowed or denied certain learning experiences. To allow an all-encompassing fostering of children’s competences, it would be essential to offer a wide range of toys, enabling broad learning experiences and the discovery of their own interests. If looked at closely, personal choice based on individual interests is often less personal and more adapted to one’s surroundings.
Gender specific toys can lead to one-sided fostering of interest and development of competences. Gender stereotypical professional choice and part time work are the main reasons for the risk of poverty for women and the main challenge for equality.