Childhood Unlimited: Parenting Beyond the Gender Bias

by Virginia Mendez

- In 2013, Disney released its most egalitarian film to date - but 59% of all the lines in Frozen are spoken by male characters.
- 57% of children's books published annually have central male characters; just 31% have central female characters.

Raising your child beyond the limitations placed on them by gender is, let's face it, an uphill battle. If you don't know where to start, or how to start, you will find inspiration, insight and plenty of practical strategies in Childhood Unlimited . From navigating the gendered constructs that dominate children's films, television and media generally, to choosing appropriate and stimulating toys beyond the binary divide, this accessible and relatable book will make the whole process much less daunting.

Based on interviews with, and research by, some of the best thought-leaders from the fields of psychology, neuroscience and education, the insights in this book will not only open the eyes of any parent or caregiver, they will inspire you to help your child to look at the world in a critical, creative and empowered way. Free from the restraints of the stereotypes that surround gender, your child has the opportunity to reach their true potential - and this is the book that you need to launch them on that journey.

Genres: Parenting, Nonfiction, Psychology

256 pages, Paperback

Published August 16, 2022

About the author

I am a feminist author, public speaker and co-founder of The Feminist Shop - a feminist ethical brand and hub.
With a background in corporate and mother of 2 I decided to put my skills to work by creating a career that can make a real positive change. I love public speaking (and speaking in general) and challenging kids and adults to unlearn constrictive stereotypes.
I have written 2 bilingual children's books (one against gender stereotypes, the other about consent) with Mika & Lolo, 2 cousins, as main characters.

My book “childhood unlimited” is a conversational guide on how to parent beyond gender stereotypes. You will not only be more equipped and knowledgeable but also excited to be part of a new way to do things, outside the boxes that never perfectly fit anyone

Reviews

[Jo-Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must-read for any parent or educator who cares about equality, and worries about the limitations that gender stereotypes place on kids of all genders. The author's stories about her own children are inspiring and illuminate the need to be careful about the often unintended messages we send our children, and she backs it up with research and interviews with experts. There is no way to unsee the biased world our kids are growing up in once you read this so thankfully the author provides plenty of tips for minimizing the impact it has on them. I am a wiser and fairer parent after reading this book. I wish it had been around when my children were younger but it's still useful with my teens!

[Helen (they or he) · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a non-binary person, this book has brought me so much joy. Not only is this informational and concisely written with many references, it is also evidently made with love and passion about the subject. This is a much needed book in our society, especially right now. I'm very glad and honored that I had the opportunity to read this even before it is published.

[Hannah Crocker]

It wasn’t really what I was expecting. It didn’t really feel like the author was confident in the information and there was a lot of over explaining to try to compensate. I would probably give this two stars but I’m also in a weird mood so I’m not sure if I’m being too harsh or not. I’ll revisit at some point and leave a better review and actually star it then.

[Anna Stoecklein · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliant book that really breaks down a difficult topic into a way that is easy to understand, enjoyable to read, and with actionable next steps to starting making changes today. Should be mandatory reading for all adults, not just parents! :)

[Rachel S · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author states: I wish I knew more about motherhood
Well I wish this book was around when I had young kids. This book was eye-opening in so many ways.