subject: The Best Unisex Children's Toys for 2011 [print this page] The Best Unisex Children's Toys for 2011
Throughout history, gender has often determined the type of toys we play with as children. Since ancient times, boys have been given toy swords and girls dolls, reflecting the roles they were expected to play later in life. The late twentieth century, however, saw many traditional gender roles being dismantled and this has been reflected in children's toys, many of which now have a much more unisex appeal than ever before. While gender-specific toys do still exist, it is now easier than ever to find toys and games that both male and female children can enjoy playing with, either together or alone.
Over the last thirty years or so, children's toys have been dominated by franchises based on popular television shows or movies. With more and more kids' films eschewing the traditional gender divide, the associated merchandise and toys have become more and more unisex. Films like the Toy Story series have inspired licensed products based on movie characters that can be enjoyed by both boys and girls. While some characters, like Buzz Lightyear, may appeal more to boys, others like Woody, Rex and Lotso have universal appeal.
Laptops, smart phones and e-readers have been amongst the most popular new gadgets for adults over the last few years so it should come as little surprise that many children are taking an avid interest in them too. Whereas in the past, computing was often associated with boys, the social and creative aspect of modern technology has made it just as appealing to girls. For younger children not yet old enough for a mobile phone or laptop of their own, products from companies like V-Tech can help teach fundamental IT skills while providing an age-appropriate environment safe from the wider hazards of technology.
Outdoor activity toys like slides, swings, climbing frames and trampolines remain extremely popular with both girls and boys, especially during the summer. Trampolines in particular are as popular as ever and are fantastic for keeping kids active even into their teenage years. Many modern trampolines come with a safety enclosure made of netted artificial fabrics and metal bars and edges are often covered by padding and other materials, making them extremely safe as well. If looked after properly, outdoor activity toys can last for many years, making them an excellent investment in the long term.
Board games have also endured extremely well, remaining popular even when threatened by displacement from fleeting fads. Many of the most popular games some of which have been around for generations now - transcend not only the gender gap, but age differences too. Games like Scrabble and Cluedo can be enjoyed by children aged as young as 9 or 10, with junior versions available for those not quite old enough for the full experience. Even more complex games like Monopoly can be enjoyed by older children or by slightly younger ones with some parental assistance. With these games often being enjoyed well into adulthood, they too represent a great long term investment.
Unisex toys can encourage boys and girls to play together and are an excellent way of enabling the entire family to enjoy the same games without anybody having to feel excluded. While there will always be a place for gender-specific toys, the rise of unisex toys reflects changing gender dynamics in society.
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