As a parent to a son who loves to write, I’m constantly searching for the perfect notebooks and journals for him. On a recent work trip to New York City, I stumbled into a charming boutique bookstore near Columbia University. While browsing the adult section, I found an adorable notebook adorned with an owl that I knew he would cherish. However, when I ventured downstairs to the children’s section, I was greeted only by a sea of pink and purple glittery diaries—definitely not his style!
It’s disheartening that pink and glitter almost always scream “girl” in our society, a notion that’s been reinforced by marketing strategies that seem almost brainwashing. I remember when my son was just three years old, he boldly declared pink as his favorite color. My partner and I embraced this wholeheartedly. When he requested a birthday cake featuring a pink Brachiosaurus, we were all in. Yet, when he hit kindergarten and hesitated to wear a pink Polo shirt, I reminded him about that pink cake, only to see him burst into tears, insisting, “That’s not true.”
The truth is, those diaries I saw in New York weren’t designed with boys in mind; they’re marketed towards girls who are encouraged to express their feelings—both verbally and in writing. What message does it send to boys when they see shelves lined with pink diaries? It creates an unspoken belief that expressing feelings through writing is solely a “girl thing.”
Recently, Target made headlines by announcing that it would be removing gender-based signage in certain departments, like bedding and toys. This corporate decision is a step forward in challenging outdated marketing norms. Just as girls can enjoy playing with Legos and action figures, boys should feel free to write in diaries and play with dolls.
The backlash surrounding this change is puzzling. Target isn’t forcing anyone to buy Barbies for their sons; they’re simply expanding choices. If a boy wants a My Little Pony, they won’t be told it’s a “girl toy.”
As adults, we don’t need to shop in a “women’s” section for journals. Whether in a chain store like Target or a quaint boutique, we can find a notebook that suits our taste—pink glitter isn’t a requirement. So, why do we continue to impose this pink-and-blue dichotomy on our kids?
I want my son to know it’s perfectly fine to express his emotions, to jot down his dreams, and to let out his frustrations on paper. But how long will it be before he equates pink journals with girlhood? When will society dictate who he should be instead of allowing him to embrace his true self?
It’s high time that companies marketing to children reassess the subliminal messages their products convey. No child should ever feel odd or out of place for their choice of toys or activities.
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In summary, let’s empower our children to express themselves freely, regardless of societal expectations. We need to change the narrative around gendered toys and activities, fostering a world where all kids can thrive as their true selves.