By: Jessica Hart
Updated: Aug. 31, 2023
Originally Published: Aug. 28, 2023
As a parent of a son who enjoys writing, I’m constantly searching for suitable notebooks and journals. A while back, during a business trip to New York City, I stumbled upon a charming boutique bookstore near Columbia University. While browsing the adult section, I found a delightful little notebook adorned with an owl that I knew would capture my son’s interest. However, when I ventured downstairs to the children’s section, I was greeted by an array of pink and purple glittery diaries that I knew my son would not appreciate.
It’s disheartening that pink and glittery items are often marketed as “girl” products, a perception that has unfortunately seeped into my child’s understanding due to the pervasive influence of marketing. When my son was three years old, he proudly declared pink as his favorite color. My husband and I supported his choice wholeheartedly. When he requested a pink Brachiosaurus birthday cake, we celebrated his creativity. But fast forward to kindergarten, and he hesitated to wear a pink Polo shirt. When I reminded him of the pink cake, he burst into tears, insisting, “That’s not true!”
The reality is that those colorful diaries I encountered in New York are typically aimed at girls, sending a subtle yet powerful message that boys should not express their emotions in writing. What does it convey to boys when they are confronted with shelves of pink diaries? It suggests that writing down feelings is a “girl thing,” discouraging them from engaging in such activities.
In a positive move, Target recently announced it would be removing gender-specific signage in various departments, including toys and bedding. This shift is a significant step toward dismantling the outdated norms that accompany traditional marketing. Just as girls can enjoy Legos and action figures, boys should feel free to write in journals or play with dolls without judgment.
The backlash against this decision is perplexing. Target isn’t forcing parents to buy Barbies for their sons; rather, they are broadening the scope of choices available. No child should feel restricted by arbitrary gender labels. If a boy wants to choose a My Little Pony, Target’s marketing won’t discourage that decision.
As adults, we don’t confine ourselves to “women’s” sections to find a journal that suits us, whether it’s at a major retailer or a quaint specialty shop. I can easily select a notebook that appeals to me—definitely not one embellished with pink glitter. So why should we allow our children to be trapped in the confines of outdated gender norms?
I am determined to teach my son that expressing his feelings is not only acceptable but encouraged. He should feel empowered to document his hopes, dreams, and frustrations. But how many pink journals must he encounter before he internalizes the idea that writing is reserved for girls? When will he begin to suppress his true self due to societal expectations?
It’s time for all brands that cater to children to reevaluate the subliminal messages their products convey. No child should feel isolated or different because of their choice in hobbies or toys. For more insights on this topic, take a look at our other blog post here.
In the pursuit of inclusivity and acceptance, we can foster an environment where all children feel free to express themselves authentically, regardless of societal norms.
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