Certain toys, such as Barbie dolls and toy soldiers, are often perceived as being more acceptable for one gender than the other. It has been noted by researchers that, "Children as young as 18 months display sex-stereotyped toy choices".[10]

Playing with toys stereotyped for the opposite gender sometimes results in negative consequences from parents or fellow children. In recent years[citation needed], mainly in western countries[citation needed], it has been looked down upon for males to play with toys that were originally stereotyped as being "for girls". However, it is generally not as looked down upon for females to play with toys designed "for boys", an activity which has also become more common in recent years.[11]