What are beliefs about gender?

Beliefs about gender are like rules people think make sense for what it means to be a boy, a girl, or something else.

Imagine you're playing with blocks. Some kids say, "Only boys can build towers!" Others might say, "Girls are better at making pretty patterns!" These ideas, that being a boy or girl has certain rules, are beliefs about gender. They help people understand what's normal or expected for someone based on their gender, which is like the label we give to someone when they're born, or sometimes choose later.

Sometimes, kids say, "Wait! I want to be a boy and play with dolls too!" Or "I'm a girl and love climbing trees!" That shows that beliefs about gender can change, just like how you might change your mind about what game to play next.

People who believe everyone can choose their own gender are like the kids who say, "You can be anyone you want!" It's like having more blocks to use in your tower, more options, and more fun!