Final answer:
Elementary school children most consistently choose same-sex playmates. This is influenced by parents providing gender-normative toys and the positive reinforcement that accompanies gender-conforming behavior. Educational settings can also reinforce or challenge these gender norms, affecting children's socialization.
Step-by-step explanation:
When elementary school children are free to choose their playmates, the most consistent finding is that they will choose same-sex playmates. This tendency is part of gender socialization where parents often provide gender appropriate toys and give positive feedback for behaviors that align with societal gender norms. As children grow, they may start to interact in mixed-gender groups, and how peers and adults respond to these interactions can either reinforce or challenge traditional gender roles. Furthermore, the influence of these gender norms extends beyond play, affecting how children are treated in educational settings, with teachers sometimes reinforcing gender-differentiated behavior unknowingly.