Summary: Our girls are bombarded with messages every day there is only one way to be "female." Often these images and messages are over-sexualized and hyper-focused on appearance. When we host gender reveal parties that offer "Guns or Glitter," to the sexes, we rob children of the chance to be diverse, complicated humans; choosing instead how they will fulfill our gendered expectations. <br><br>Think or Blue is a community of parents, teachers, grandparents and family members seeking a rainbow of options for children in a pink and blue world. Gender stereotypes start young, now in the womb, and impact the way we raise our children and the way children develop. The marketing of books, toys, and clothes has become increasingly gendered in the last couple of decades. Pink and blue are no longer colors; they have become personalities and lifestyles. If we stick to outdated stereotypes that girls are sweet, delicate and caring, while boys are active, adventurous leaders, we limit their potential as adults and as humans. <br><br><br>Our Guest today is Catherine Bailey. Catherine is the founder of Think or Blue, a community of parents, teachers, and family who believe that children thrive best in a world free from gender stereotypes. Raised in the 1980's on Free to Be You and Me, Catherine has feminism running in her blood. A former lawyer, she works at a nonprofit organization that empowers and advocates for women and girls through direct service and policy advocacy on topics such as pay equity, paid family and medical leave, and preventing violence and harassment.<br>With her sister, Jackie, she co-authored the 5 Day Reboot to Raising Confident Girls to help parents boost girls' body image, foster authenticity and individuality, and teach their children the power of advocacy and collective action.
