Teaching kids about gender equality is a great way to help them understand fairness, break down stereotypes, and celebrate everyone’s unique qualities.
These hands-on activities are perfect for sparking conversations and having fun while learning.
You can easily adapt them for a cozy day indoors with some rainy-day activities for families or even thanksgiving activities for kids when everyone’s together and ready to connect.
1. Role reversal day
Let kids experience different roles by switching up typical household tasks or activities.
For example, if a specific family member usually does certain chores, have someone else try them out.
This activity helps kids understand that skills and responsibilities are not bound by gender, promoting equality and appreciation for each other’s contributions.
2. Story time about equality
Pick out some books that flip the script on traditional gender roles and feature a range of characters.
Storytime is a great way to introduce kids to different perspectives and get them thinking about what equality really means.
A great resource to help your child express their emotions is the story “A Palette of Colors” on the Storybook app, perfect for exploring feelings in a creative way.
This story helps children associate their emotions with colors, making it easier for them to express and understand how they feel. 🎨💖
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This is also a wonderful addition to your after school activities for kids, keeping the conversation going and teaching values.
3. "What’s Fair?" game
Present little scenarios where they have to decide what’s fair, like sharing a toy or taking turns.
It’s a simple way to get them thinking about fairness and talking about how to treat people equally.
4. Art Project
Get creative with an art project that celebrates diversity. They can draw superheroes, friends, or family members, showing everyone’s unique strengths.
It’s a fun way to express their ideas on equality and makes for a chill afternoon, perfect for rainy days at home.
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5. Debunking Stereotypes
Write down common stereotypes (like “Only girls wear pink” or “Only boys are strong”) and talk about why they’re just not true.
This helps kids see through outdated ideas and opens their eyes to a world where anyone can be anything.
6. Equal opportunity sports day
Set up a mini sports day with activities that everyone can try, no matter their gender.
It’s a fun way to show that skills come from practice, not gender. You can even mix in some impulse control activities for kids, teaching them about patience and teamwork, too.
7. Career day
Discuss different careers and let the kids draw themselves doing something they find cool.
Encourage them to choose jobs that might not traditionally be associated with their gender. This helps them realize that they can pursue any dream, no limits.
8. Respect wheel
Create a simple wheel with ways to show respect, like “Share Fairly” or “Listen to Others.” Spin the wheel, and let kids practice showing respect in different ways. It’s a fun way to build habits of kindness and equality.
9. Same or Different
Have a conversation about similarities and differences between people. Let kids talk about their favorite hobbies, foods, or colors and see how unique everyone is.
It’s a great way to show them that diversity is awesome and that everyone should be treated equally.
A wonderful resource to introduce your child to the beauty of diversity is the story “A World of Eggs” on the Storybook app, perfect for fostering empathy and curiosity.
This story helps children appreciate differences in others by exploring the unique "eggs" and the variety they represent.
It’s a great way to spark meaningful conversations about inclusivity and understanding. 🌍🥚
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10. Build a Gender-Neutral Toy
Challenge kids to design a toy that’s fun for everyone, regardless of gender.
They could make a board game, build with LEGO, or create a craft project. It’s a great way to show that toys—and all activities—should be open to everyone.
How can I explain gender roles and expectations to young kids?
Talk about how anyone can enjoy any activity, wear any color, or have any job, regardless of their gender. You might say, “Boys can like pink and girls can play with trucks, too!” This helps kids understand that interests and abilities aren’t limited by gender.
How do I encourage gender-neutral language in my child?
When talking about activities, avoid calling them “boy” or “girl” things. Instead, describe them by what they are, like “playing soccer” or “drawing.” This helps kids associate toys and activities with interests rather than gender.
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Establish a bedtime relaxing activity that signals to your toddler that it's time to wind down.
Try it now!
Written By
Entrepreneur mum. I created Storybook: Bedtime Stories the #1 app in over 90 countries. I have been able to help families with the app and through my social media influence. I also created a Facebook group with over 12,000 moms where we support each other.
Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Lorena Koppel is a distinguished Child Clinical Psychologist based in Azuay, Ecuador, with over 26 years of experience at Monte Sinaí Hospital. She specializes in treating emotional disorders in children and adolescents, providing family counseling, and integrating theoretical and practical approaches in clinical psychology.
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