Yesterday, my adventurous three-year-old son had a little mishap at the play area and ended up with a cut above his eye. While my daughter prefers the quiet joy of reading and playing with her dolls, my son embodies the typical boy stereotype: he’s energetic and fearless. When he fell, he didn’t shed a tear—at least not until I mentioned a visit to get stitches, then the waterworks began. But that’s just who he is; he’s tough. He rarely cries over little bumps and bruises.
Yet, he also loves Barbies.
On our way home from the emergency room, finally able to breathe a sigh of relief, I decided to grab some much-needed lunch for my kids. As I pulled into the McDonald’s drive-thru to order their Happy Meals, the attendant asked the standard questions: extra fries or apples? What kind of drink?
Once I handed them their food, I instantly noticed the disappointment on my son’s face as he watched his sister brush her doll’s hair. And then came that one question that hit hard: “Is this meal for a boy or a girl?”
Since I have both a son and a daughter, I answered without much thought. But as we parked and I opened the Happy Meal box, the implications of her question struck me. Boys get cars; girls get dolls.
The moment was telling. My son, who just wanted to join in, was left feeling excluded. He quickly asked if he could have a Barbie too. As I drove home, I reflected on the subtle ways society shapes our children. My son can run around shirtless at the beach, while my daughter is expected to cover up. Boys can use urinals in public, while girls are hidden away in stalls.
That simple question about the McDonald’s toy sent a loud message: I’m raising a boy who’s encouraged to be bold, while my daughter is expected to conform to traditional norms. My son will one day enjoy the freedom of choice, while my daughter may feel the pressure to fit a mold. Who decides these norms? Why are fast food companies assigning toys based on gender?
The following week, I returned to McDonald’s and ordered two Happy Meals for “two girls,” happily handing one to my son. What’s wrong with him liking a Barbie? Why not shift the question from “Is this for a boy or a girl?” to “Would you like a car or a doll?” Let the kids decide for themselves.
My resilient little boy enjoys playing with Barbies, and that doesn’t diminish his masculinity. In fact, it could make him a more nurturing father in the future. Boys can be tough yet caring at the same time.
So, McDonald’s, our go-to when I’m too busy to cook: the next time my kids come to the counter, please just list the toy options and let them choose. If we are truly striving for an inclusive society where everyone has the liberty to define themselves, it starts with our children. Let them explore and discover what resonates with them. That’s the key to shaping a more accepting world—one Barbie or Hot Wheel at a time.
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In summary, let’s encourage our children to embrace their interests, regardless of societal expectations. It’s time to redefine playtime choices!
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