Focusing on Individual Needs Over Gender!

In a world where gender stereotypes are pervasive, MYUM is committed to offering an inclusive alternative through its unisex toys. 

Gender stereotypes in toys can significantly influence children's development, sometimes limiting their choices and aspirations. Our toys are designed to break down these barriers, and provide a play experience free of prejudice, and allow every child to grow to their fullest potential.

At MYUM, we believe in a world where all children can play without being limited by gender stereotypes. That's why our toys are designed to be gender-neutral, offering an inclusive and unbiased gaming experience. 

Historically, pink and blue were not associated with gender. 

Thus, pink could be worn by men, as evidenced by this painting of Henry IV dressed in pink. At that time, he captured the symbolism of red, which is a powerful color assimilated to power. So the men of power proudly wear pink. 

https://chateau-pau.fr/collection/objet/portrait-dhenri-iv-en-mars. This color became a symbol of femininity much later, thanks to the Marquise de Pompadour, who found it exquisite, and then with the Romantic movement in the 19th century.

Similarly, blue is associated with the Virgin Mary, a female figure par excellence. This color made its entrance into politics, with Saint Louis wanting to place himself under the protection of the Virgin Mary. The King of France chooses lily flowers on an azure background as royal colors. Then the lords of the aristocracy seize it, and the blue turns masculine.

The association of pink for girls and blue for boys did not always exist. But today, driven by advertising, it has become so strong that it often influences parents’ choices when choosing toys for their children. MYUM challenges these standards by offering a range of crochet toys featuring fruits and vegetables designed to appeal to all children, boys and girls alike.

Orange carrot, pink radish, violet turnip, green peas... Nature offers us a multitude of colors, and MYUM reflects them. 

VEGGY TOYS encourage creative play and exploration of the garden, allowing children to develop their imagination and skills without worrying about traditional gender expectations. 

As part of our commitment to inclusion and diversity, we asked Joy Concept Store to share her views on the importance of gender-neutral toys and her commitment to promoting this philosophy. We are delighted that she has agreed to participate in this interview, which will highlight the positive impact her store has had on the children's toy industry.

MYUM: Can you tell us more about the philosophy behind Joy Concept Store and why you chose to specialize in gender-neutral toys?

JOY: The concept behind Joy Concept Store is based on creating a playful, colorful, and fun environment that transcends the gender stereotypes often present in the world of children. The choice to specialize in gender-neutral toys stems from my conviction that gender stereotypes contribute to the perpetuation of inequalities between men and women, particularly in the area of child-rearing.

I think it is essential to break down these stereotypes at an early age in order to promote gender equality in the long term. For example, toys are not just meant to entertain but also to teach. I believe it is crucial not to restrict children's play choices, as this can have a significant impact on their development.

Girls are often encouraged to play role-playing games, which promote language development, while boys are often directed to building games that enhance their geometry skills. Similarly, books play an essential role in building children's imaginations, but they can also convey gender stereotypes, such as the stereotype of the princess for girls and the superhero for boys.

Unfortunately, these stereotypes can have serious consequences, as evidenced by the higher suicide rate among adolescent boys. They often feel rejected when expressing emotions or concerns for fear of being ridiculed. That is why I strive to create an inclusive environment where all children feel free to be themselves without being constrained by restrictive gender norms.

M: What are the challenges and benefits of offering gender-neutral toys in the children's toy industry?

J: Providing gender-neutral toys in the children's toy industry offers significant benefits. First of all, it helps to make children happier by allowing them to play freely without fear of restrictions related to gender stereotypes. It also fosters an environment in which children can explore a greater variety of activities and modes of play without being constrained by preconceived expectations.

However, there are also challenges, mainly related to the attitudes of adults, especially parents. Some parents may be reluctant to accept the idea of gender-neutral toys...

“They’ll think it’s against nature.”

This resistance may be reinforced by the perpetuation of gender stereotypes in society, including in shops, where even everyday consumer products, such as beauty products, are often divided according to gender norms.

“If you want to buy a shower gel, there are men’s and women’s shelves!” 

In the perfume shops, I have noticed that products are often labeled to match gender stereotypes, with woody and intense scents associated with men, while fruity and vanilla scents are often aimed at women. Breaking these gendered norms and educating people to challenge these stereotypes is a major challenge.

The ultimate goal of my concept is to convince parents of the importance of providing gender-neutral toys to their children in order to foster an inclusive learning and play environment where every child can fully develop, regardless of gender expectations.

M: How do you think gender-neutral toys can contribute to the positive development of children and the creation of an inclusive play environment?

Gender-neutral toys play an essential role in the positive development of children and in creating an inclusive play environment. By placing the individual needs of children at the center of our concerns, rather than conforming to the expectations of society, I seek to guide them towards authentic personal development. This translates into listening carefully to their wishes and preferences, creating a bond of trust where children know they are heard and respected.

“We must put the individual needs of children at the center of our concerns.”

It is crucial to recognize that children should not be built to meet the expectations of their parents. It is essential to make it clear that every child is unique and should not be seen as an extension of his or her parents. This approach promotes individual expression and freedom of choice among children.

It is also important to note that there are a variety of colors and styles suitable for children, beyond the gender stereotypes associated with pink and blue. 

“There is more than just pink and blue in life!”

By not only focusing on these traditional colors, we expand the possibilities and encourage children's creativity.

An effective way to ensure an inclusive play environment is to consult with children on a regular basis. Asking them what they like and are interested in ensures that the toys and activities on offer match their tastes and needs, thus increasing their engagement and enjoyment in the game.

M: What impact do you expect Joy Concept Store to have on the children's toy industry in the future?

J: I hope that Joy Concept Store will have a significant impact on the children’s toy industry in the future, especially by positively influencing the attitudes and behaviors of parents as well as the education system as a whole. My goal is to bring about a profound change in industry practices by encouraging large companies to adopt more responsible and inclusive approaches.

Today, many large companies are focused on capitalism, mainly seeking to reach consumers in order to generate profits. I aspire to change this mindset by focusing on the needs of children and the educational impact of their products. I really believe that consumers have the power to bring about that change by choosing to support companies that share their values and by demanding higher standards of inclusion and social responsibility.

Ultimately, I hope Joy Concept Store will inspire a broader movement within the toy industry, encouraging companies to rethink their practices, adopt more child-centered approaches, and promote positive values such as inclusiveness, diversity, and healthy child development.

M: How did parents and children react to your selection of gender-neutral toys?

J: The store has been around for five years now, and I’m happy to say that I’ve had generally positive feedback, with a loyal customer base that appreciates the selection of gender-neutral toys. Parents and children are often delighted to find a space where they can explore freely without the constraints of gender stereotypes. They perceive this as “a fresh wind.”.

However, outside of my regular clientele, I have encountered a few less favorable reactions. Some seem annoyed by the concept and quickly make associations with homosexuality. Unfortunately, this sometimes reveals homophobic attitudes in some people. Some parents are more open to letting their girls play with toys traditionally associated with boys, but others are more reticent about boys, perhaps fearing that they will be perceived as effeminate or even gay.

It is crucial that people become aware of these prejudices and the restrictive norms that underlie them. It is easier to remain ignorant and not question established social norms, but this limits the ability to construct oneself authentically. 

“We are like in a mold that is very superficial” 

The opening of the store was partly motivated by my own personal awareness of the pervasive stereotypes in our society. I wondered why so many men and women conform to current gender norms and what impact this stereotypical upbringing has on our children.