Throughout my 19 years teaching I have indeed observed the presence of gender stereotypes in the classroom. One example is during STEM lessons I have noticed girls don’t have the same confidence in engaging in activities initially and need more encouragement. In saying this I thankfully believe that gender stereotypes are somewhat diminishing, albeit there is alot of work still to be done. It is of utmost importance as educators to continue this great progress in breaking down gender stereotypes. Traditionally there were boys toys and girls toys but thankfully this I believe is no longer the case. Of course at times girls might gravitate towards certain toys and vice versa and that’s ok. However children should never be made to feel certain toys/activities are only for a certain cohort. They need to be exposed to all types of toys/activities regardless of gender and no barriers/restrictions put in place. One of the many quotes that stands out for me from Emma Watson’s powerful UN speech in New York was If not me, who? If not now, when? Now is the time to make the change, not in the future. We need to instill a belief in the children in our care that anything is possible, regardless of gender. I’m possible! Not impossible.