Final answer:
Children's toy and activity preferences can be influenced by gender stereotypes learned through play and reinforced by parents. Boys often receive active toys, while girls receive toys that foster nurturing and role-playing activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Children's toy and activity preferences can be influenced by gender stereotypes that are learned through play and reinforced by parents and society. Boys are often given toys that promote physical activity, aggression, and solitary play, such as trucks and toy guns. Girls, on the other hand, are typically given dolls and dress-up apparel that foster nurturing and role-playing activities. Studies have shown that children are more likely to choose gender-appropriate toys even when cross-gender toys are available because they receive positive feedback and reinforcement for conforming to gender norms.