Child Psychology    Homework #4

Toy Store Assignment

Go to a toy store (Toys “R” Us, K-Mart, Wal-Mart, Creative Kids, etc.) and examine the toy department. You could also do this online be going to one of the many online toys web retailers such as www.backtobasicstoys.com or www.etoys.com.

Consider the following questions:

1.     How are the toys presented (categorized and displayed)?

2.     Do the toys represent stereotypical views of girls and boys? Describe how.

3.     Are any toys presented so that they seem appropriate for either gender? Give examples.

4.     Are there any stereotypically boy toys or girl toys that could be attractive to both sexes with a different package or name? Give examples.

5.     Are there any toys marketed to both boys and girls? Give examples.

6.     How does the marketing of toys appeal to parents as well as children?

7.     How do toys contribute to gender roles in our society?