How boys’ toys ‘are putting girls off tech jobs’

GIRLS are being steered away from careers in technology and engineering by genderspecific Christmas presents, a report suggests.

It found that just 11 per cent of popular toys linked to science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM), are listed as being suitable for girls.

By contrast, 31 per cent of such products were listed as having a particular appeal for boys.

The figures are based on an analysis of 360 toys and images across retailer websites carried out by the Institution of Engineering and Technology. It also found that 89 per cent of toys listed for girls were pink, compared with

‘Can influence what a child does’

one per cent for boys. The IET warned that although more than a third of primary school girls say they enjoy maths and science, women account for just 9 per cent of UK engineers.

They said gendered gift lists could be turning young girls away from such careers, and that parents, toy retailers and search engines had a responsibility not to perpetuate gender stereotypes.

Its report assessed the way search engines and websites dealt with searches using the terms ‘boys’ toys’ and ‘girls’ toys’. For example, a search on Google for boys’ toys turned up a magnet toy and a Pit Stop toy garage. But a search for girls’ toys returned dolls and a wooden cooking set.

IET spokesman Mamta Singhal said: ‘Toys can really influence what a child does in later years. Therefore STEM toys are a natural move for the industry.’