Considering Genders and being biased towards one of the dominating genders in this patriarchal society i.e. Male is the foundational concern in today’s world. It has been there for a long time but eventually and fortunately, we have acknowledged it better and how adversely it impacts the perspectives of individuals. The very need that arises amongst us all is identifying that we are living in a world which is commonly based on the grounds of Gender bias and hence, work on tackling the same from the beginning itself.

We experience Gendering from the beginning itself…..

Gender socialization is a “process by which individuals develop, refine and learn gender through internalizing gender norms and roles as they interact with key agents of socialization, such as their family, school, peers and other social institutions.”

From the moment we are born, we are exposed to the outside world which is full of gender socialisation. Our habits, toys, walk, and how others treat us, are all influenced by society considering our different genders. 

Gender Roles through Gender Socialisation

Gender roles in society mean how we're expected to act, speak, dress, groom, and conduct ourselves based on our assigned sex. For example, girls and women are 
generally expected to dress in typically feminine ways and be polite, accommodating, and nurturing. We are essentially guided or better put socialised to pick up the expected roles.

Talking about gender bias which also happens in the child’s surrounding on an everyday basis, is hence a product of Gender Socialisation. Gender bias is behaviour that shows favouritism toward one gender over another. Most often, gender bias is the act of favouring men and/or boys over women and/or girls. This is a very prominent scenario in our homes as well. Giving food first to the Male child, giving more resources and opportunities to them in school and at home. 

Hence, if we are saying that one child because of their gender gets fair treatment, is it obvious that unfair treatment and inequality are being faced by the other gender? The life chances of one individual are at stake because of this, right?

Responsibility of Adults to tackle the growing Gender bias:

As it has always been said that the sooner the better, it is also very important to prevent children from developing gender bias at an early age. 

Early Years practitioners and preschool teachers can break the bias and gender stereotypes to provide a gender-neutral Environment and learning experiences to support every child irrespective of what sex they have been assigned biologically so they can attain their fullest potential. A wholesome curriculum goes through a holistic approach to diversity and inclusion. Junior Delhi School Preschool works extensively to train teachers on the same and help to break the gender bias in a child’s early years.

We can help children resist developing gender Bias at schools and at Home.

Fore mostly thinking well on where does the child learn or pick it from? Where does it stem from and what is the root of the development of gender biases among us all? This will help us all to have a better environment. How, let’s check out a few ways!

1. Teachers and parents should treat children as equals.

2. Teachers should avoid segregating children by gender in the first place. I can do it. With statements like "Hello, pretty girl!"

3. School teachers can check the bookshelves and motivate parents to do the same.

4. You can also encourage children to explore different interests.

Also Read: TOP 10 BEST PRESCHOOL AND PLAY SCHOOL IN WEST BENGAL