Kaufland-Heidenau: Confusion about controversial toy signs!

Kaufland-Heidenau: Confusion about controversial toy signs!

Heidenau, Deutschland - In Heidenauer Kaufland, a small sign drama has unfolded that raises far-reaching questions about gender stereotypes and orientation in the toy world. A few weeks ago, a sign with the inscription "Toy for Boys" was removed, while a corresponding sign for "toys for girls" was completely missing. This reported Sächsische, which drawn attention to the previous discussion. The renaming to the neutral term "toy" is now in the room after the gender -specific shield was only seen for four weeks.

The background of this sign is not just a local anecdote. Rather, it reflects a more comprehensive problem that is anchored in our handling of children's toys. According to the NDR Info Science Podcast “Synaps”, gender marketing significantly influences the toy world. Often there is a strict separation by gender that gives the parents *** impression that their children have free choice, which is an illusion. In a study, adults were observed, the toys offered the child's gender - even if the children were present in neutral clothing.

A trend towards gender -specific toys

The social expectations of children are strong and can decisively influence their game behavior. Toy researcher Dr. Volker Mehringer notes that many toys are gender -specific, although that would not be necessary. An example? Rosa bobby cars for girls and blue for boys. In this context, we observe that young people often experience higher social pressure to play in their role as typical “boys”, while girls can develop freely.

• parents should be encouraged to encourage their children to play for various games without clinging stereotypical expectations.
• A 2022 survey showed that Germans spend a total of three billion euros for toys, whereby the industry has been following increasing sales since 2009.

The Kaufland in Heidenau is also not the only business that is confronted with confusion on the shelves. Another sign with the inscription "Cheese for dishes" also causes irritation, since cheese is categorized here for use and not according to variety. This type of product presentation could certainly serve as a pioneer for dealing with cut, stereotypical toys.

The upcoming toy fair and its meaning

Next Wednesday, the most important trade fair in the toy industry will take place in Nuremberg. Over a million products and numerous innovations are presented here, including many gender toys. Industry experts such as Ulrich Brobeil confirm the demand for such articles, which are often divided into girls' affine or boys affine areas. LEGO has been increasingly relating to this separation in recent years to address both boys and girls.

The continued debate about gender -specific toys shows that it is time to question common patterns. With a new toy store, Smyth Toys, which opened in Kaufland in July, it will be shown whether and how a change in the approach will take place here. It is to be hoped that future generations can experience toys and gender roles more relaxed and creative.