Challenging Gender Stereotypes in the Early Years: Changing the Narrative

What does gender equity mean for early years practitioners? What are early years settings already doing to promote gender equality, and why is this so important? How can we provide children with a solid basis from which they can grow into people who are not limited by society’s expectations of their gender?

This is a manual for every early years practitioner who wishes to expand their knowledge and improve their practice around gender stereotyping in the early years. Drawing from the authors’ experience developing a public health programme tackling gender stereotypes, it explores the reasons why gender inequality is still an issue, identifies the ways it is perpetuated and provides a framework and practical tools to drive change. The framework includes an audit process to celebrate areas of success and to identify areas for development, alongside a host of suggestions on how to navigate tricky situations in creative, respectful and effective ways.

With the voices and experiences of experts and practitioners woven throughout, alongside key reflections and scenarios to critically engage with, Challenging Gender Stereotypes in the Early Years challenges readers to consider their own practice, drive staff awareness and make a difference to their setting.