Take a moment to think about the kind of encouragement children receive when choosing between STEM and the arts. Are girls more likely to be praised for creativity, empathy, or expression , while boys are nudged toward logic, tech, and problem-solving ?
This isn’t always deliberate—but from the toys we buy to the compliments we give, to how schools channel talent, subtle messages add up. A girl who shows interest in engineering might be told how “rare and impressive” she is, while a boy who enjoys painting may be asked what his “real plan” is.
Over time, these nudges shape how children see themselves, their abilities, and their future paths. But what if we’re unintentionally closing doors before they’re fully open?
Do boys and girls receive different kinds of encouragement when choosing between STEM and the arts? How have you seen this play out—in your home, school, or community?
Let’s unpack it. 