Let's Close the Dream Gap

We've made strides toward encouraging girls to dream without limits, to envision themselves in roles traditionally dominated by men – but do we truly believe they can reach these dreams? This is where Barbie's Dream Gap project steps in, targeting the entrenched gender stereotypes that still exist, aiming to dismantle them and bridge the gap between girls and their full potential. Despite progress, there's an undeniable truth – we still treat our daughters differently from our sons. 

Studies highlighted by the Dream Gap tell the story best:

From as early as age 5, girls start doubting their abilities in fields historically dominated by men. They stop believing they can become astronauts, scientists, world leaders, and CEOs. 

By age 7, many girls believe that boys are smarter than them.

Girls are three times less likely to receive a science-related toy. 

Parents are twice as likely to Google, “is my son gifted?” than “is my daughter gifted?”

It's a reality that reflects deep-rooted societal biases – a reality that we’re working to change. Closing this gap is a societal imperative that calls for collective action from all of us. 

Here's how the journey towards change begins. Let’s turn to the core research behind the Dream Gap. Our colleagues at New York University dug into an essential question: do girls even want to take on leadership roles when given the opportunity?

What They Found

They found that girls hesitate to take the lead. Why? Girls don’t expect to have support in their corner if they step up as leaders. This is especially true for girls under 8 years old. 

What We Can Do

The study also gives us a clue about what to do. Would you be more likely to take the lead if you thought you’d have a team there to back you up? Of course. When we frame leadership about teamwork instead of about bossing other people around, kids warm up to the idea of leading. In other words, reframing what it means to be a leader is key for nudging girls towards leadership. 

This tells us a lot about the power of framing and language in shaping kids' ambitions. By encouraging an inclusive, supportive view of leadership, we can start to chip away at those longstanding gender gaps, fostering a more equitable playing field for the next generation.

How to Reframe Leadership for Your Child:

"You have great ideas and can make a positive change. What's something you'd like to lead or organize?"

"Leadership isn't just about being in charge - it's about listening and bringing out the best in others. How do you think you can do that?"

"You don't have to be loud to be a leader. Quiet leadership can be just as powerful."

"It's okay to make mistakes; every leader does. What's important is learning from them."

"Remember, a true leader is someone who respects others' ideas and feelings."

"Don't be afraid to stand up for what you believe in. Leaders often have to speak up for their ideas."

"What qualities do you admire in a leader? How can you develop those qualities in yourself?"

"Being a leader means caring for the well-being of those around you. How can you show that care and concern for your friends or teammates?"