Final answer:
Children learn gender roles through social learning theory, which involves observation and imitation of others. Parents play a significant role in reinforcing gender roles by providing toys that promote gender-appropriate behavior. Positive feedback from parents encourages children to conform to gender norms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Children learn gender roles through social learning theory, which suggests that they acquire these roles through observation and imitation of others. One way this occurs is through play, where parents typically provide boys with toys that promote motor skills and aggression, while girls are given toys that foster nurturing behavior and role play. Studies have shown that children are more likely to choose gender-appropriate toys because they receive positive feedback from parents for engaging in gender normative behavior.