Unisex kids’ clothing brand Ducky Zebra and kids’ online directory Not Only Pink and Blue are joining forces to host a free online event on Monday 17 October. The webinar will explore how to close the gender gap in confidence and emotional literacy in children.

With girls’ confidence levels plummeting by 30% between the ages of 8-14, and boys being exposed to far fewer ways to define their emotions than girls, these gaps impact most children, as well as adults later in life.

According to recent research by both brands, over 85% of parents and carers are concerned by the impact of gender stereotypes on children

However, only 12% feel confident that they can break this cycle. During the webinar, Ducky Zebra and Not Only Pink and Blue will support parents and carers with this challenge by tackling questions such as:

• Why is it that girls’ confidence levels drop?
• Are boys inherently more likely to struggle with – or suppress – their emotions?
• What’s the impact of these gaps? And how do they affect us later in life?
• How can we close these gaps?

The event will run from 8-9pm and will include the following expert speakers

• Professor Gina Rippon

A pioneering researcher in the field of cognitive neuroimaging based at the Aston Brain Centre, Aston University in Birmingham. She is also the author of The Gendered Brain, in which she deconstructs the stereotypes that swamp us from the moment we’re born and shows how this social conditioning moulds our sense of self and even shapes our brains.

• Kirstie Beaven

Writer, editor and founder of Sonshine, a magazine about raising boys for a more equal world.

• Ogo Mkparu

Co-Founder of unisex kids’ clothing brand Akwa Baby. The brand’s eco-conscious prints take inspiration from African heritage with a positive social narrative. Ogo, a father of three, will share his personal experiences around growing up, gaining confidence and realising the power of emotional literacy.

The online event is timely, taking place just after Mental Health Awareness Week

Commenting is Clare Willetts, founder of Not Only Pink and Blue. “Many of us are aware of the Gender Pay Gap. But what about the Gender Confidence Gap for girls? And the Emotional Literacy Gap for boys? A lack of confidence can affect the subject choices we choose, the career paths we take, and the opportunities we accept. It can also affect our mental health and self-esteem.”

Also commenting is Sally Dear, founder of Ducky Zebra. “A lack of emotional literacy can affect our resilience, ability to cope with challenges and potential to connect with others. It can also affect our mental health and behaviour. These ‘skill gaps’ are equally damaging for girls and boys, men and women. We’re delighted to be exploring the topic further and discussing how we can close these gaps.”

Ducky Zebra seeks to inspire kindness and confidence in all children through colourful, sustainable clothing

Its unisex designs for 0-6 years are free from stereotypes. The clothing is fun and colourful, with child-approved designs. The brand was founded by mum-of-two, Sally Dear, from her East-Oxford home after she grew frustrated with the harmful gender stereotypes found in high street kids’ clothing.

Clothes intended for girls often promote messages of kindness and beauty – but not necessarily confidence – and clothes intended for boys often encourage bravery and heroism, but not necessarily kindness.

Not Only Pink and Blue exists to grow generations of equals

It does this by challenging buying behaviour that perpetuates stereotypes with its directory of brands that don’t use girl/boy filters; by creating parent-friendly work cultures with its innovative parental leave programme; and by collaborating with leaders where it consults on projects, delivers talks, and chairs round tables to create a world that does not stereotype children.

For further information on the event and to book free tickets, please click here.