Briefly explain the gender differences in play.

What will be an ideal response?

Answers will vary. Research shows that infants show visual preferences for gender-stereotyped toys as early as three to eight months of age (Alexander et al., 2009). Although preferences for gender-typed toys are well developed by the ages of 15 to 36 months, girls are more likely to stray from the stereotypes (Underwood & Rosen, 2011). Girls ask for and play with "boys' toys" such as cars and trucks more often than boys choose dolls and other "girls' toys."Girls and boys differ not only in toy preferences but also in their choice of play environments and activities. During the preschool and early elementary school years, boys prefer vigorous physical outdoor activities such as climbing, playing with large vehicles, and rough-and-tumble play (Underwood & Rosen, 2011). In middle childhood, boys spend more time than girls in play groups of five or more children and in competitive play. Girls are more likely than boys to engage in arts and crafts and domestic play. Girls' activities are more closely directed and structured by adults (A. Campbell et al., 2002).