Daughter Tells Dad About Her Sexist School Policy, So He Shuts It Down In Best Way Possible
In the small village of Wongarbon, Australia, about 381 km northwest of Sydney, a strange phenomenon has taken place; a 12-year-old girl named Ruby Callaghan has apparently traveled back in time during a routine school day. Her father, in a state of disbelief, has written a letter demanding an explanation from the educational institute, claiming that his daughter left the house on Tuesday morning in the current year of 2017, was transported back to 1968 upon entering the school building, and was returned to him endowed with harrowing tales of gender-segregated field trips. “My reaction was one of disappointment,” Stephen Callaghan told Bored Panda.
According to Dubbo West Public School’s latest newsletter, ahead of the its self-proclaimed Boy’s And Girl’s Day, girls will be “treated to fabulous hair and light make-up,” while boys will be “going to Bunnings [hardware store], activities and a BBQ lunch.” Though a Department of Education spokesperson has stated that any student can choose either activity, Ruby’s father told us that she “specifically asked her teacher if she could go to Bunnings instead and was told it was only for the boys.” Could the space-time continuum have been breached, or are kids still being subjected to such forms of casual sexism in 2017?
“I feel the school has a responsibility to break down these gender divisions,” Mr. Callaghan said further on the matter. As a father to 3 girls, the issue is especially dear to him, and he added that he and his wife wish to give their daughters “the confidence to speak up when they feel they are being discriminated against because they are female.”
Just like most of us back home, Ruby reportedly saw both the humor and the sad reality in her dad’s letter, and was glad he sent it. Scroll down to read it for yourself, and don’t forget to add your view in the comments.
A father in Australia is accusing his daughter’s school of unauthorized time-travel after a ‘serious incident’
“Dear Principal,
I must draw your attention to a serious incident which occurred yesterday at your school where my daughter Ruby is a year 6 student.
When Ruby left for school yesterday it was 2017 but when she returned home in the afternoon she was from 1968.
I know this to be the case as Ruby informed me that the “girls” in Year 6 would be attending the school library to get their hair and make-up done on Monday afternoon while the “boys” are going to Bunnings.
Are you able tos earch the school buildings for a rip in the space-time coninuum? Perhaps there is a faulty Flux Capacitor hidden away in the girls toilet block?
I look forward to this being rectified and my daughter and others girls at the school being returned to this millenium where schools activities are not divided among gender lives.
Sincerely,
Stephen Callaghan”
We contacted Mr. Callaghan for comment, and he revealed that Ruby “specifically asked her teacher if she could go to Bunnings instead and was told it was only for the boys”
Some people, perhaps blind to the perils of space-time continuum fractures, stood behind the school
Others, however, were quick to commend the father on his stance against bygone eras and their mindsets
He even came forward to brilliantly sum up the entire dialogue
What do you think? Should time-travel be reserved for the big screen and Doc Brown? Tell us below!
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I don't get the people who disagree with him. Especially the one saying that there is nothing wrong with that because SHE wouldn't have liked it... Self centered vision of the world ? It's not really about what the school did, of course a majority of the girls enjoyed the make-up activity, and most of the boys probably loved their trip to the DIY store, it's about the CHOICE. Like it's said at the beginning, she wasn't ask to choose, THAT is the issue...
I get my hair cut at a place that is 90% male (staff)
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being based in Australia, I'm seriously considering calling the school myself, to find out! (hopefully, they changed their criteria to "you can choose one of 2 activities: DIY class, or grooming class"... because boys need to know how to present themselves well too, if they ever want to get a job or a date when they grow up)
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talk about missing the bleeding point! all these people who dont get what the problem is, (YOU ARE THE PROBLEM) not everyone wants to do make up, i know plenty of women who would much rather go to a workshop then some forced makeup BS. enforcing gender stereotypes is beyond its time, it needs to DIE.
Mr Osbourne, I was 12 in 1983, and we had similar gender-based activities. I was pretty effing offended at not being "allowed" to do the boy things and I don't like makeup. Just as well my dad taught me that stuff, because I ended up having 5 sons and a daughter and speaking as a Mother, it is good that I had a more rounded education than just how to put on my bleeping mascara. I taught my boys how to build a treehouse.
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I agree with the Dad, if they have a policy of allowing students to pick which activity they want to participate in they should actually follow that policy. I'm a female who works in tech, I would have had and still have no interest in the hair and make up but the building session would have been of great interest to me.
When I did my work experience (back in the day) the school told you to write down your choice of where you'd want to go work. Being a bit of a lad, I wrote down car mechanic. They refused and sent me to be a carer at a disabled childrens home. Now don't get me wrong that was a worthwhile thing to do, but I'd rather have learned about cars!! Sad to see nothings changed!
Hey Judith, please ignore the troll that replied to your comment. You have a good point and I am sorry you could not choose your area of study. And yes, there is still sexism in the world, but it has gotten much better and will hopefully continue to do so. It is just important to not let closed minded people like that take control.
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When I was a little girl, I didn't want dolls--however, that was the gift I always received! I wanted a gas station like my little brother got! It did things! Dolls didn't DO anything! However, I grew up to have a very nice collection of power tools and know how to use them! But I can also wear a dress and makeup, and do my hair appropriately. Women can have both worlds!
I grew up with both "boy" and "girl" toys. I played with Barbie, Littlest Pet Shop, and Polly Pocket but I also loved playing with Hot Wheels and Micro Machines.
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Let's teach girls how to be pretty! That's SUPER important. It's what they are there for, obviously, to be looked at.
Sarcasm. Funny, but not always translated well in text.
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At my primary school (which was mixed, I go to a single sex school now) for year six, we had two end of year courses. The boys were going to a really fun videogaming and chemistry course while the girls got to look after toddlers and learn to make pancakes. We didn’t even get a choice. And the whole thing had a 1930s vibe to its.
Hey Weeping Willowz, please ignore the troll that replied to your comment. You have a good point and speak truth. Obviously it's too thoughtful for some people.
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I don't think there's anything wrong with the activities per se it's just really sad that it still suit gender-based. All people what is choice without judgment and if that means boys want to play with make up and some of them are amazing at it and girls want to do boys activities and I happened to be really good at it without judgment that's the bottom line
Hey Nichol, please ignore the troll that replied to your comment. You have a very good argument and open minded perspective. It is clearly too advanced for some people on a lower level.
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To tell the truth, all students should attend BOTH Activities for educational purpose: To better themselves with knowledge and practical [LIFE] Skills Learnt from home and schools in order to be Self-Sufficient/Independent as an adult in the future! Sure, it's understandable that, in this case, Both Activities are pre-arranged to take place at the Same Time but at Different Locations. So, WHY NOT Give a sign-up sheet for ALL students to CHOOSE which activity to attend?! WHY Can't ALL student Have A CHOICE to decide which activity to go?!
Hey 未周 陸, please ignore the idiot that replied to your comment. You have a good argument and a progressive attitude. Clearly it makes TOO much sense for some people to handle.
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The school should have followed through with giving them a choice. I have 3 granddaughters and I know which each of them would have chosen. One would get her face painted, one would go do DIY stuff, and the third would skip school that day because both of those choices are pretty lame for 6th grade outings.
Hahahaha. I'm in the same boat and what's more, their parents would support their decision 100%.
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"Know any male hairdressers?" Really? Most hairdressers I've been too were men, or there were men working in the place too. Should just give the kids the option to choose and end the day together with the bbq lunch. (seeing as there isn't any food mentioned for the girls?)
I've been to,** (Give us an edit comment option BoredPanda :P )
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Like at my school. The girls got a high tea with hair, jewellery and little pot plants- while the boys got a barbecue with games and a guest speaker.
What most people do not know, is that times and the world have changed. I do not see anything of abnormal when a 6-year-old girl enjoys soccer practice, and a 7-year-old boy likes the hairdressing profession. We parents have to leave them at ease in the chose of their activities, professional or not. The same criterion if applies to homo-affective relationships. Let them be happy the way they think that's better for them. Freedom of choice will be eternally grateful.
Hey Darlon, please ignore the troll that replied to your comment. You have a great point and a very positive message. Clearly it is too open minded for some people.
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Tbh my issue with all of this is girls doing make up at 12 and school a encouraging it wtf!! I didn't wear make up until 14 even now I dont give too much of a c**p over it. If my child came home with a face full of slap saying the school let us do it I would be fuming children are growing up far too fast these days
Hollie, please do not listen to the idiot that replied to your comment. You have a good point and not caring about makeup is a strong way of liking yourself the way you are. And no amount of makeup can fix the attitude of that hateful person.
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My youngest son does hair. He did my husband's and mine over Thanksgiving. I've had other male hair stylists and colorists, too. These people disagreeing with the Dad are either stuck in that time warp or they're too caught up in themselves to recognize that this is the 21st century.
Hey Maria, please ignore the brainless imbecile that replied to your comment. You have a good point and a very progressive attitude. Clearly it is too much to handle for closed minded individuals. :/
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I hate makeup and school is for learning. I don't mind that they do fun activities at times, but I would have been utterly miserable being made to sit through makeup. The boys' activity sounds way more interesting to me.
Seriously, if they're making some kind of event for make-up I'd probably just leave the school for the day.
Load More Replies... Maybe the school was too afraid to let them pick. Because they probably did not want the boys getting their hair and makeup done. They would not know how to handle that situation.
I have to agree with this father and daughter...because in 1968, I was one who broke the barrier in our school. Canadian..Grade 9: choose an elective ( extra course to make up the year. I wasn't interested in Typing( already failed that once), Home Ec( cooking and sewing..already did that) Coral ( can't carry a tune in a bucket even with the lid on) BUT...I was interested in Wood working or Automotive. After much fighting and hardship, I did get into Automotive, and did that right up until Graduation. Can't work on todays' cars to well due to computer stuff......but give me a Classic and I can do almost as well as any male.
I'd be the kid in the back like "I don't like either , can i just go home ?" Lol
Back in my day (long time ago) I would have just stayed home that day with some dangerous virus or something lol
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Don't forget the guys who want their hair and makeup done instead of a DIY workshop.
Give the kids a choice between which one they want to do. Is that so complicated?
They should just let the kids chose what they want to do. I might have preferred the hair thing1 :) :)
What is Bunnings? You mean the hardware store? That's a weird place to take kids (maybe they had an event set up though?).
Hey Master Markus, please do not listen to the troll that replied to your comment. That stupidness was completely unnecessary.
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I would have tried to sneak in with the guys because I wear jeans and T-shirt and have real short hair...
Hey SnoopyCereal, please ignore the troll that replied to your comment. I think what you said made perfect sense and honestly I would have tried the same. :)
Load More Replies... One day she will build a time machine that will push us all forward into a better future! You go, little doctor! Don't let anyone shape your interests into something you find boring. As for the school, I seriously don't understand why they didn't let the students choose in the first place. They could make 2 or 3 various kinds of activities and let the students sign up to what they prefer, making groups accordingly.
Also, I do know some male hair dressers, and I've worked with them. From what I have observed, some are feminine, some are not, both have done a good job. I also know of some male make up artists, equally as skilled. Depending on the area that you live in, you may not find these things to be very likely, but they do in fact happen, and are not as rare a thing in other parts of the country. It's mostly cultural, in my opinion. If you tell someone they are likely to be bad at something, they have a higher chance of being bad at it. I don't encourage that practice though, as you could wipe a gem from the face of the earth.
I totally agree with this parent. Even more, I'm a teacher in a school in a country where I'm a foreigner and I was sooooooooooo shock when I learnt that in MY OWN SCHOOL girls are taught how to sew or cook while boys how to fix things around the house. What???? Why???? Doesn't boys eat??? Doesn't girls have problems with leaking taps or lamps???? Now I understand, I just didn't travel geographycally, I even travelled in time!!!
Eframit, please so not listen to the idiot that replied to you comment, you have a very valid argument and your grammar is nothing like that mindless stupidness written.
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In my 1960s junior high in Casper WY the boys took wood and metal shop while the girls took "home ec" (cooking and sewing). But during each semester we swapped for a few weeks. By high school we could choose electives. We're we terribly enlightened, or we forward time travelers? I don't know. On the other hand, in high school, the girls dress code was wbite blouses and navy skirts to the knee. Boys rules were button shirts and slacks of choice. So they had "uniforms", we just had rules. There was usually a senior end of year party for girls at which uniform skirts were bonfired. I have observed that many modern public schools require uniforms for school, a policy generally applauded by parents and students alike. So this time travel thing is getting a bit confused. Is Stewie driving the time machine?
Oh. I forgot. In the spring we had a uniform holiday. My senior year, I wore my cousin's navy skirt, a shirt, and a gold blazer - the uniform of the girls' service club. Oh, and black socks and plain going-to-church shoes. This was 1967, mind you. There were many screams in the halls that day. I visited the office, and the vice principal (with whom I was on very good terms) took me into the girls' counselor's officer and told her "This is why girls should not wear short skirts." When she didn't understand what he meant from her seat behind her desk, he told her to stand up. She howled and collapsed in laughter. At our 30th reunion, she didn't remember my face or name, but she remembered the skinny, hairy legs. 🤣😂😁
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Sick of the sexism in the world. It has to end NOW. Good on this guy - a great dad
On the whole, I would prefer to go to the hardware store than be bored to death by hair and makeup tips. Zzzzzzz. The hardware store actually is an interesting place to visit.
Good on you, Dad! More fathers need to "get the memo" about raising their daughters. Yes, we're girls. Not all of us like pink and pretty and horses. Some of us don't like worms or spiders or snails. BUT - we matter. We're not "less than" because we lack a penis. We can be so much MORE if we get the guidance, love and support from our Fathers. I basically blew up my HS chem lab (turpentine+iodine crystals=really sticky purple smoke). They wanted to expel me, but my Dad argued that I was simply engaging in an experiment I had learned in my English class. He was very persuasive. and I was allowed to remain in school (I had to clean the residue off the ceiling and walls, which took FOREVER). I got grounded at home for being a pain in the a*s, but I gained such a deep respect for my Father. He stood up for me. 40 years later - it still makes me proud.
Let the students select or opt-out. So simple. What was the school's response? How old are Australian year 6 students? I'm in the US.
how about they just let the kids do wut they want? that was the problem, everyone is like "oh its boys and girls stuff" NO ITS BECAUSE ONE CHILD WANTS TO DO SOMETHING AND OTHERS ARE BEING A******S AND THINKING THAT ONE TYPE OF KID WANTS ONE TYPE it doesn't matter if it's for boys or girls, they should have just put both activities up and just let any kind that wanted to sign for wut they wanted THAT IS WUT THE DAD WAS WANTING THAT IS WUT WAS BEING ADDRESSED HERE ALL YOU IDIOT MAKING IT ABOUT BOYS AND GIRLS GENDER .....JUST F*****G LET PEOPLE DO AS THEY WANT IT Won't HURT THEM
Markus, how is sex "pretty usual" for 12-year-olds?! where the hell do you live?
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There is still such kind of sexism in China, but the situation is getting better. The most confusing thing for me is that many chinese femal wish to have sons rather than daughters even if they cliam against the sexism.
Adults need to let kids choose what they want that doesn’t discourage them based on their gender. There are Girls that like Transformers. There are boys that like MLP: Fim. Let them choose what makes them happy and don’t make them miserable just so you can be happy you choose for them because you believe kids are too stupid to know what they want.
When I went to school ( a million years ago) boys were taking "shop class" (wood working, power tools etc) girls had to take sewing and cooking. We fought and the classes behind us got to choose. Always wished I had taken the shop classes. I already knew how to cook and I still suck at sewing.
It has always been wrong to gender stereotype people. Years ago after I finished school I went on this government run course to brush up on my computer skills. But the computer lessons were just a part of it. The girls and boys were strictly divided down the middle. The Girls had to learn cooking and dressmaking skills and the boys did woodwork and metal work. Also we got our dinner there everyday and the girls NEVER the boys had to do ALL the washing up and clearing up the kitchen and dining area afterwards. I being a Tomboy all my life took exception to this and through my protests got it switch over for a six week trial. It was good for everyone. The girls learned how to work a drill and make something out of wood and the boys learned how good it was to be able to cook a meal for themselves. We should all be allowed to do as we please (within reason, Of course) despite what traditional gender stereotypes dictate.
Simply solved by letting the students choose where they want to go, that's what the school should have done. But I don't think they meant harm.
I'm sure no one meant any harm, but when things like this event are overlooked or just brushed off, it DOES harm, especially when you realize how widespread these small, well-intended but clearly sexist types of events are. It's amazing that in this day and age someone in the school's staff didn't think there was anything wrong with this, but I love the way this Dad handled it--no "poor me" victim attitude at all (I seriously don't understand why some commenters had any issue with his note). He used some sly humour to point out what should have been obvious and then encouraged the school to "catch up" to the rest of us living in 2017. I too get tired of all of the humourless political correctness surrounding gender discussions and think it often serves only to make the issues more confusing. That doesn't mean that we shouldn't challenge sexist attitudes though--I wish more people would do it with a dose of humour like the time-traveler's Dad did!
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Why didn't they give the boys and girls a choice Did the school staff line them up and check
I would encourage people to take pride in the good things we've done as a species. Not the good we've done as a gender or other similar distinctions, but as a species. We've done some pretty bad things as well, but I say we keep the good rollin'. Humans have done some amazing, beautiful things. Let's keep doing them.
My kid's grade 6 class was invited to participate in this awesome round-robin activity day a couple of years back. They gave them about 20 choices of stations, from games to grooming to sports to art... and they had to list their top 5 choices, getting to do 2 or 3 of them, but it was open access to everything. A few boys ended up getting manicures for giggles.
That's nasty because the kids can't chose. Yes most girls will be probably more interested in getting their hair done but what about the BBQ? Don't the girls get to go out for a meal? This is c**p and I say that as someone who does believe that girls and boys are different, however I also acknowledge that some would want the other activity. Why not let them chose where they want to go? As a girl I'd have gone with the boys, now as an adult I would just turn up for the BBQ.
Of course it's fine to enjoy "a traditional gender role activity" if one WANTS TO. Forcing 12 yr old girls to put on makeup is not ok. Denying a child the OPPORTUNITY to enjoy the other activity offered, based on gender, was wrong. It tells her she's only "good for" her looks and that those looks depend on wearing makeup. Also, some parents don't WANT their 12 yr old girls wearing makeup yet anyway. This girl wants to be an engineer, not a beauty queen. She wasn't asking for a special activity be arranged just for her, but only to join the other pre-arranged field trip.
He was right to write the letter! Bravo for him! One day, his daughter will make a fine and talented engineer !
Problem solved - have both activities for both boys and girls. As pointed out, boys need to learn grooming and skin care just as much as girls. And, as a woman I know the importance of going to a hardware store for something for the house and have enough knowledge so the salesperson doesn't sell me something I don't really need. An education is an education people (school administratiors) give it all to all of the children with no exceptions. Just sayin'..............
Girls are girls and boys are boys. And some girls are boys and some boys are girls. Some of either and some neither. Girls like boys and boys like girls. Some girls like girls and some boys like boys. Some like both and some like none. Some are one thing in their youth and another when they're older. For some there's "the one" and some like lots of fun with lots of folk. The sooner we accept that gender and sexuality are fluid spectrums the sooner this damn planet can get on with peace & love for all. That's my 2 cents worth any hoo
I understand that many people do try to play the victim, but I believe this isn't one of those cases. The words specifically used state that it was "only for boys". While we as adults are able to think past that and see it as just something the school is doing, and not how one is to be living life, (in our culture) a child isn't as likely to understand that. Simultaneously the alternate activity was for hair and make up, with no third option presented that I noticed, other than maybe not go to anything and be alone and lonely. Some people like makeup, and there's nothing wrong with that, but to have it forced upon oneself or face being alone is sending a very poor message to our children and prepping them to potentially develop body issues. I don't think there's anything wrong with a person liking/disliking engineering or makeup. Some people like both. But taking away one choice, and then forcing another, upon a child based on gender, is in my opinion wrong, within our current culture.
Good god this is unbelievable and so are some of the comments. She is not screaming victim nor is her father. He had the right to speak out on her behalf. She wants to be an engineer she would enjoy the environment of Bunnings, I am a senior and I love Bunnings always have I too would have chosen it over hair and makeup. Those things a girl learns as she goes along she does not need days off to do that! Does our gender matter as to what we do and do not like? Who has the right to make that decision. The school was wrong her father was right. She should have been given the choice.
I'm guessing they were TERRIFIED that some of the boys would prefer makeup. I remember having to fight to take an electronics class in HS in 1970. But I won. And got an A. The next year, 3 girls were signed up and one of them was taking Electronics 2 because she did a lot of home projects with her dad. It's worth the fight.
Personally, I think BOTH genders should be allowed to choose either of the options. It's ridiculous, because I have seen many males who chose the profession of doing hair, make-up & clothing/jewellery designs. Also, I've known girls who took more of an interest in "tomboyish" activities; whether it's DIY technology, engineering, sport activities or other such choices. Just because you're a girl, it doesn't mean you have to like experimenting with hair & make-up. Same as being a boy doesn't necessarily require you to enjoy DIY & rough-contact sports. We're 17 years into the 21st century, for crying out loud! Give up the stereotyping, already! Let young people make their OWN choices! Is it really so difficult to make changes that can benefit everyone in the long run?? 😑
F***s sake just cause i got a vagina between my legs doesn't mean i dont want a bunnings snag mate
I support this dad, in taking a stand for his daughter. Both genders need to learn the importance of proper grooming and skin, hair and nail care, and both genders would benefit from a workshop at Bunnings. Girls need to know how to chandpge a light bulb or tap washer and howvtomhang a picture. My kids are in their 40’s and I was pleased when both boys and girls were taught to cook and sew as well as a little carpentry and metal work, in fact by daughter got high marks for her metalwork and my son did wonderful embroidery. My son is teaching his son and daughter the basics of sewing. I am pleased that the high school my children attended back in the 1980’s was transporting students so far into the future!
I'm a woman who can't be bothered with makeup who goes to Bunnings too.
Bravo! They could have halved the day and switched. They’d probably found out from the boys parents that activity shouldn’t have played at school at all. Then they’d all have gone to the hardware store which is a super fun way to spend a couple of hours even if you don’t have a project. Great job Mr. Callaghan.
I like the comment from Phillipa B. I think that showing boys how to look good wouldn't be wrong, show them how to tie a tie, polish shoes and iron a shirt and also I think it is not bad to take girls to DIY place and show them that their hands are not only for manicure.
I still remembered a similar incident when I was in daycare/preschool. One day during naptime, the teachers (who were all dressed up for some reason) quickly woke up all of the girls and took them out. However, they forgot about me. When the girls came back, they all had makeup on and their hair done.
I think the school had good intentions, as many (or most) of the girls and guys would have been happy with that set up. Stereotypes exist for a reason. But yeah, they should have had a choice!
As a female I wouldn't have cared about the hardware store, but would have been mad about missing out on bbq! If the teacher had followed the supposed policy, there wouldn't have been an issue..
I didn't get anything when I finished primary school. Lucky kids...
I can't be the only one thinking: why is there a hair and makeup activity going on for 12-year-old girls at a school in the first place? I'm not saying children that age aren't allowed to have any interest in those things, or that promoting them is fundamentally wrong, but it seems really weird to make that a school-sanctioned activity. There are so many more interesting and appropriate educational things they could be doing during recreational time. For instance team-building activities, confidence-building, or communication development. They could volunteer or even visit a local farm or museum; they could get a speaker. Who's idea was it to do prom-prep day for literal 12-year-old children? Am I missing something?
And with the DIY store the argument can certainly be made that those are skills everyone can use and they will likely be called upon to do so at some point in their lives. Which makes the choice to gender segregate the activities especially troubling.
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I (biologically male) wore a dress to the school dance and the biggest, meanest jocks all complimented me. When I said I was a boy, they said they knew. :)
It could be that not wanting to go where she was instructed to go is why she wanted to go to the other place. So for example teacher says you go to XYZ and the pupil says i don't want to go to XYZ. In this instance it may not actually be sexism could just be i want to do what i want.
Reply from the school: Two activities had been organized and each pupil attended the one of their choice. Your daughter and the other girls preferred hairdressing while the boys preferred going to Bunnings. You should talk more to your daughter and learn about her likes and dislikes. Yours truly, The Director.
This is sickening. I would've LOVED the hair and makeup, but that's just me! Everyone should have a choice on what they would like to do and who they would want to be. Gender stereotypes are in the past. People are getting more and more freedom as time advances, but unfortunately some restrictions cling to the present... but not for long. Not on my watch.
Let them choose which outing they want. His daughter wanted to got to Bunnings. I'm sure they had some boys that wanted hair and makeup.
What confused me the most was the fact the children had mere two activities to choose from. Why is there only DIY and grooming? Why can't they attend art class, literature or drama class, or additional sport class?
Way to go, Dad! I'm the youngest of six kids and am the only daughter. I would want to go to the DIY workshops, too! As a young woman, I learned about make up, love getting my hair done but I can also swing a hammer and use power tools. Your daughter is going to wind up an amazing, self confident, and self possessed young woman because of you. #parentingdoneright
...the question is....'What do I think?'..........bloody hell.......bloody Dubbo at its finest!!! ...and what's worse, is that the teacher was probably an import to the area...how quickly local attitudes attach........! laughing all the way.....
It would be interesting to see the fallout if they held the two events on different days and had all children attend both.
For those of you advocating that the children are presented with a choice between the make-over & library vs. the hardware store, you're all completely missing the point: the gender-separated field trips were specifically designed to separate the genders -- not just by anatomy, but also by cultural "norms". Now I'm all for cultural norms, otherwise we'd have anarchy. However, pink-and-blue gender stereotypes are, as the dad wrote, from the 1960s.
All I can say is that there will be plenty of situations that you wish were different but arent. Time to teach our kids the realities of life. Mommy and Daddy wont always be there to place pillows in front of you while you walk.
Thank you Stephen for bringing this to the school's attention and the witty way you presented the situation. Hopefully the school will endeavor to offer events to all the students not based on gender. It appears that the school staff needs to recognize their bias too!
I'm a female and an engineer and i would say this is not the time for questioning a worth of a gender in anyfield, its time to give respect and to give right to choose what we want to be when we grow up.
I failed home economics. (Sewing is stupid, just buy it, i said) But I was allowed to take shop class after a protest. I won first place in CO2 car design and built a bunch a cool stuff
When I was in middle school (a bit after this young lady), we had electives. I knew I wanted to design so I tried for the art classes but the jocks filled them all, thinking it would be easy. We had plenty of boys in home economics (house keeping but what millennials are calling "adulting") and a few other girls in the shop classes I attended. It was not about forcing genders, then. It was all that was available. I am very glad of my shop and home ec classes. All kids should do all things adults need to know in school, or learning from their parents.
so let the boys get a make over and learn how to do makeup on themselves. That would probably stop it quick.
The kids were given a choice. Good grief! Are people really so sensitive these days? Bunch of snowflakes and here I thought Australia had more balls than this!
I had to take home economics and could not take shop. It was ridiculous. This was back in 1973. I am glad he spoke up, because I to would rather go to a hardware store. And believe me, boys that age (and some men I know) need to learn how to groom themselves. Why couldn't it have been a half day of each with a picnic lunch in between for everyone?
When I was in the equivalent grade I wanted to take shop. Nope, had to take home ec. I had been cooking and sewing for years. I wanted to improve my handy woman skills! Oh and we were not allowed to wear makeup at 12! Ancient history. I'm 74. I would have hoped for some progress by now.
I'd have been so much more enraged than this guy. My girl would have been going on that field trip, or the entire world would know it.
For all my elementary school years (exactly 8) I was forced to take part in girlish activities as sewing baby clothes and cross stitching while the boys could make badass wooden DIY projects, creating their own lamps and so on... I am still freaking jealous.... (Even though I like many of the things we girls learned, I would have chosen the boy activities in a blink of an eye)
I remember back in nursery school the boys and girls had to play with gender-specific toys. I wanted to play with the cars but I was told those were boy toys and I should go to the play kitchen and pretend to wash dishes. even at 4 I knew washing dishes wasn't fun. that was in '59 or '60, though.
I know both of my girls would have preferred DIY at Bunnings rather than hair & makeup!
Each child should have been able to choose where they would prefer to go. I agree with Ruby's dad.
I wonder how the principle responded. I agree with the dad, the boys and girls should be offered a choice which they would rather attend.
This whole divide starts at the beginning, this whole "boys toys" and "girls toys" thing is absurd! My favourite items when I was young were radios, cameras, and an electronics project kit. I was born in 1964, my mum was very traditional but my father wasn’t.
As a woman who despises makeup (honestly, even when I was in my teens and 20s, I thought it was silly women needed to be all sorts of colorful to attract a male), I applaud this father and his reaction. I know men who are far better at makeup than I am. And I know I am far better at mechanical things than many men I know. Why does this need to be drawn along gender lines?
Also in Australia & my daughter had a very similar thing. Boys got martial arts lessons & to meet local heroes, girls got make up & "talk about their feelings" I was furious but the school said no one else complained so tough luck basically. We have many local female heroes (cops, firefighters, Dr's, nurses, armed forces personnel) & I think teaching girls self defence is far more important than make up
They should have had at least one non-gender-stereotyped option, something like a park visit, or something with animals, or a unisex crafting project, and kids should have truly been able to choose whichever appealed most to them. Also, I second the comment re. schools not teaching practical life skills that they should teach ALL students: cooking, basic DIY repair, sewing & mending, budgeting, ...
Oh man!!! I didn't HAVING A CHOICE in which activity to do in school was such a big deal. Did I miss the spaceship, trainwreck, or car crash somewhere cuz I was under the impression that we were in the 21st century and moving FORWARD in time, not backwards!!! I'm female, and I get stared at because the first place I go to when I go shopping is the Tools/Paint section!! lol Oh well, I guess I'm not as "advanced" as I thought..............No more "thinking" for me!! lol
When I was a kid every student were given a choice in which crafting class they would like to attend - either woodworks or sewing. One boy wanted to do sewing classes, but the teachers talked him out of that because "all the other boys attend woodwork classes and girls do sewing"... So yeah, you were free to choose as long as you chose the right anserw...
Is that's all you can winge about that so stupid how about get a damn job like most people and you won't have time to worry about such petty snowflake bs
Doing hair and make-up as a school activity. No wonder there are people in the US who are against solar panels because they believe they suck up the energy of the sun. Way to go to dumb down a country.
Except this was in Australia. Re-read the article, Katinka, please.
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What about everything that ISN'T posted on the internet?
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You didn't read the article. You just reacted to the pictures. You have to actually read to understand the full story. He demanded an explanation from the educational institute. So, he did send the letter to the school. She specifically asked her teacher if she could go to Bunnings instead and was told it was only for the boys.
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on behalf of all the female humans, we would do the same for you too :)
Load More Replies... I don't get the people who disagree with him. Especially the one saying that there is nothing wrong with that because SHE wouldn't have liked it... Self centered vision of the world ? It's not really about what the school did, of course a majority of the girls enjoyed the make-up activity, and most of the boys probably loved their trip to the DIY store, it's about the CHOICE. Like it's said at the beginning, she wasn't ask to choose, THAT is the issue...
I get my hair cut at a place that is 90% male (staff)
Load More Replies... being based in Australia, I'm seriously considering calling the school myself, to find out! (hopefully, they changed their criteria to "you can choose one of 2 activities: DIY class, or grooming class"... because boys need to know how to present themselves well too, if they ever want to get a job or a date when they grow up)
Load More Replies... talk about missing the bleeding point! all these people who dont get what the problem is, (YOU ARE THE PROBLEM) not everyone wants to do make up, i know plenty of women who would much rather go to a workshop then some forced makeup BS. enforcing gender stereotypes is beyond its time, it needs to DIE.
Mr Osbourne, I was 12 in 1983, and we had similar gender-based activities. I was pretty effing offended at not being "allowed" to do the boy things and I don't like makeup. Just as well my dad taught me that stuff, because I ended up having 5 sons and a daughter and speaking as a Mother, it is good that I had a more rounded education than just how to put on my bleeping mascara. I taught my boys how to build a treehouse.
Load More Replies... I agree with the Dad, if they have a policy of allowing students to pick which activity they want to participate in they should actually follow that policy. I'm a female who works in tech, I would have had and still have no interest in the hair and make up but the building session would have been of great interest to me.
When I did my work experience (back in the day) the school told you to write down your choice of where you'd want to go work. Being a bit of a lad, I wrote down car mechanic. They refused and sent me to be a carer at a disabled childrens home. Now don't get me wrong that was a worthwhile thing to do, but I'd rather have learned about cars!! Sad to see nothings changed!
Hey Judith, please ignore the troll that replied to your comment. You have a good point and I am sorry you could not choose your area of study. And yes, there is still sexism in the world, but it has gotten much better and will hopefully continue to do so. It is just important to not let closed minded people like that take control.
Load More Replies... When I was a little girl, I didn't want dolls--however, that was the gift I always received! I wanted a gas station like my little brother got! It did things! Dolls didn't DO anything! However, I grew up to have a very nice collection of power tools and know how to use them! But I can also wear a dress and makeup, and do my hair appropriately. Women can have both worlds!
I grew up with both "boy" and "girl" toys. I played with Barbie, Littlest Pet Shop, and Polly Pocket but I also loved playing with Hot Wheels and Micro Machines.
Load More Replies... Let's teach girls how to be pretty! That's SUPER important. It's what they are there for, obviously, to be looked at.
Sarcasm. Funny, but not always translated well in text.
Load More Replies... At my primary school (which was mixed, I go to a single sex school now) for year six, we had two end of year courses. The boys were going to a really fun videogaming and chemistry course while the girls got to look after toddlers and learn to make pancakes. We didn’t even get a choice. And the whole thing had a 1930s vibe to its.
Hey Weeping Willowz, please ignore the troll that replied to your comment. You have a good point and speak truth. Obviously it's too thoughtful for some people.
Load More Replies... I don't think there's anything wrong with the activities per se it's just really sad that it still suit gender-based. All people what is choice without judgment and if that means boys want to play with make up and some of them are amazing at it and girls want to do boys activities and I happened to be really good at it without judgment that's the bottom line
Hey Nichol, please ignore the troll that replied to your comment. You have a very good argument and open minded perspective. It is clearly too advanced for some people on a lower level.
Load More Replies... To tell the truth, all students should attend BOTH Activities for educational purpose: To better themselves with knowledge and practical [LIFE] Skills Learnt from home and schools in order to be Self-Sufficient/Independent as an adult in the future! Sure, it's understandable that, in this case, Both Activities are pre-arranged to take place at the Same Time but at Different Locations. So, WHY NOT Give a sign-up sheet for ALL students to CHOOSE which activity to attend?! WHY Can't ALL student Have A CHOICE to decide which activity to go?!
Hey 未周 陸, please ignore the idiot that replied to your comment. You have a good argument and a progressive attitude. Clearly it makes TOO much sense for some people to handle.
Load More Replies... The school should have followed through with giving them a choice. I have 3 granddaughters and I know which each of them would have chosen. One would get her face painted, one would go do DIY stuff, and the third would skip school that day because both of those choices are pretty lame for 6th grade outings.
Hahahaha. I'm in the same boat and what's more, their parents would support their decision 100%.
Load More Replies... "Know any male hairdressers?" Really? Most hairdressers I've been too were men, or there were men working in the place too. Should just give the kids the option to choose and end the day together with the bbq lunch. (seeing as there isn't any food mentioned for the girls?)
I've been to,** (Give us an edit comment option BoredPanda :P )
Load More Replies... Like at my school. The girls got a high tea with hair, jewellery and little pot plants- while the boys got a barbecue with games and a guest speaker.
What most people do not know, is that times and the world have changed. I do not see anything of abnormal when a 6-year-old girl enjoys soccer practice, and a 7-year-old boy likes the hairdressing profession. We parents have to leave them at ease in the chose of their activities, professional or not. The same criterion if applies to homo-affective relationships. Let them be happy the way they think that's better for them. Freedom of choice will be eternally grateful.
Hey Darlon, please ignore the troll that replied to your comment. You have a great point and a very positive message. Clearly it is too open minded for some people.
Load More Replies... Tbh my issue with all of this is girls doing make up at 12 and school a encouraging it wtf!! I didn't wear make up until 14 even now I dont give too much of a c**p over it. If my child came home with a face full of slap saying the school let us do it I would be fuming children are growing up far too fast these days
Hollie, please do not listen to the idiot that replied to your comment. You have a good point and not caring about makeup is a strong way of liking yourself the way you are. And no amount of makeup can fix the attitude of that hateful person.
Load More Replies... My youngest son does hair. He did my husband's and mine over Thanksgiving. I've had other male hair stylists and colorists, too. These people disagreeing with the Dad are either stuck in that time warp or they're too caught up in themselves to recognize that this is the 21st century.
Hey Maria, please ignore the brainless imbecile that replied to your comment. You have a good point and a very progressive attitude. Clearly it is too much to handle for closed minded individuals. :/
Load More Replies... I hate makeup and school is for learning. I don't mind that they do fun activities at times, but I would have been utterly miserable being made to sit through makeup. The boys' activity sounds way more interesting to me.
Seriously, if they're making some kind of event for make-up I'd probably just leave the school for the day.
Load More Replies... Maybe the school was too afraid to let them pick. Because they probably did not want the boys getting their hair and makeup done. They would not know how to handle that situation.
I have to agree with this father and daughter...because in 1968, I was one who broke the barrier in our school. Canadian..Grade 9: choose an elective ( extra course to make up the year. I wasn't interested in Typing( already failed that once), Home Ec( cooking and sewing..already did that) Coral ( can't carry a tune in a bucket even with the lid on) BUT...I was interested in Wood working or Automotive. After much fighting and hardship, I did get into Automotive, and did that right up until Graduation. Can't work on todays' cars to well due to computer stuff......but give me a Classic and I can do almost as well as any male.
I'd be the kid in the back like "I don't like either , can i just go home ?" Lol
Back in my day (long time ago) I would have just stayed home that day with some dangerous virus or something lol
Load More Replies... Don't forget the guys who want their hair and makeup done instead of a DIY workshop.
Give the kids a choice between which one they want to do. Is that so complicated?
They should just let the kids chose what they want to do. I might have preferred the hair thing1 :) :)
What is Bunnings? You mean the hardware store? That's a weird place to take kids (maybe they had an event set up though?).
Hey Master Markus, please do not listen to the troll that replied to your comment. That stupidness was completely unnecessary.
Load More Replies... I would have tried to sneak in with the guys because I wear jeans and T-shirt and have real short hair...
Hey SnoopyCereal, please ignore the troll that replied to your comment. I think what you said made perfect sense and honestly I would have tried the same. :)
Load More Replies... One day she will build a time machine that will push us all forward into a better future! You go, little doctor! Don't let anyone shape your interests into something you find boring. As for the school, I seriously don't understand why they didn't let the students choose in the first place. They could make 2 or 3 various kinds of activities and let the students sign up to what they prefer, making groups accordingly.
Also, I do know some male hair dressers, and I've worked with them. From what I have observed, some are feminine, some are not, both have done a good job. I also know of some male make up artists, equally as skilled. Depending on the area that you live in, you may not find these things to be very likely, but they do in fact happen, and are not as rare a thing in other parts of the country. It's mostly cultural, in my opinion. If you tell someone they are likely to be bad at something, they have a higher chance of being bad at it. I don't encourage that practice though, as you could wipe a gem from the face of the earth.
I totally agree with this parent. Even more, I'm a teacher in a school in a country where I'm a foreigner and I was sooooooooooo shock when I learnt that in MY OWN SCHOOL girls are taught how to sew or cook while boys how to fix things around the house. What???? Why???? Doesn't boys eat??? Doesn't girls have problems with leaking taps or lamps???? Now I understand, I just didn't travel geographycally, I even travelled in time!!!
Eframit, please so not listen to the idiot that replied to you comment, you have a very valid argument and your grammar is nothing like that mindless stupidness written.
Load More Replies... In my 1960s junior high in Casper WY the boys took wood and metal shop while the girls took "home ec" (cooking and sewing). But during each semester we swapped for a few weeks. By high school we could choose electives. We're we terribly enlightened, or we forward time travelers? I don't know. On the other hand, in high school, the girls dress code was wbite blouses and navy skirts to the knee. Boys rules were button shirts and slacks of choice. So they had "uniforms", we just had rules. There was usually a senior end of year party for girls at which uniform skirts were bonfired. I have observed that many modern public schools require uniforms for school, a policy generally applauded by parents and students alike. So this time travel thing is getting a bit confused. Is Stewie driving the time machine?
Oh. I forgot. In the spring we had a uniform holiday. My senior year, I wore my cousin's navy skirt, a shirt, and a gold blazer - the uniform of the girls' service club. Oh, and black socks and plain going-to-church shoes. This was 1967, mind you. There were many screams in the halls that day. I visited the office, and the vice principal (with whom I was on very good terms) took me into the girls' counselor's officer and told her "This is why girls should not wear short skirts." When she didn't understand what he meant from her seat behind her desk, he told her to stand up. She howled and collapsed in laughter. At our 30th reunion, she didn't remember my face or name, but she remembered the skinny, hairy legs. 🤣😂😁
Load More Replies... Sick of the sexism in the world. It has to end NOW. Good on this guy - a great dad
On the whole, I would prefer to go to the hardware store than be bored to death by hair and makeup tips. Zzzzzzz. The hardware store actually is an interesting place to visit.
Good on you, Dad! More fathers need to "get the memo" about raising their daughters. Yes, we're girls. Not all of us like pink and pretty and horses. Some of us don't like worms or spiders or snails. BUT - we matter. We're not "less than" because we lack a penis. We can be so much MORE if we get the guidance, love and support from our Fathers. I basically blew up my HS chem lab (turpentine+iodine crystals=really sticky purple smoke). They wanted to expel me, but my Dad argued that I was simply engaging in an experiment I had learned in my English class. He was very persuasive. and I was allowed to remain in school (I had to clean the residue off the ceiling and walls, which took FOREVER). I got grounded at home for being a pain in the a*s, but I gained such a deep respect for my Father. He stood up for me. 40 years later - it still makes me proud.
Let the students select or opt-out. So simple. What was the school's response? How old are Australian year 6 students? I'm in the US.
how about they just let the kids do wut they want? that was the problem, everyone is like "oh its boys and girls stuff" NO ITS BECAUSE ONE CHILD WANTS TO DO SOMETHING AND OTHERS ARE BEING A******S AND THINKING THAT ONE TYPE OF KID WANTS ONE TYPE it doesn't matter if it's for boys or girls, they should have just put both activities up and just let any kind that wanted to sign for wut they wanted THAT IS WUT THE DAD WAS WANTING THAT IS WUT WAS BEING ADDRESSED HERE ALL YOU IDIOT MAKING IT ABOUT BOYS AND GIRLS GENDER .....JUST F*****G LET PEOPLE DO AS THEY WANT IT Won't HURT THEM
Markus, how is sex "pretty usual" for 12-year-olds?! where the hell do you live?
Load More Replies... There is still such kind of sexism in China, but the situation is getting better. The most confusing thing for me is that many chinese femal wish to have sons rather than daughters even if they cliam against the sexism.
Adults need to let kids choose what they want that doesn’t discourage them based on their gender. There are Girls that like Transformers. There are boys that like MLP: Fim. Let them choose what makes them happy and don’t make them miserable just so you can be happy you choose for them because you believe kids are too stupid to know what they want.
When I went to school ( a million years ago) boys were taking "shop class" (wood working, power tools etc) girls had to take sewing and cooking. We fought and the classes behind us got to choose. Always wished I had taken the shop classes. I already knew how to cook and I still suck at sewing.
It has always been wrong to gender stereotype people. Years ago after I finished school I went on this government run course to brush up on my computer skills. But the computer lessons were just a part of it. The girls and boys were strictly divided down the middle. The Girls had to learn cooking and dressmaking skills and the boys did woodwork and metal work. Also we got our dinner there everyday and the girls NEVER the boys had to do ALL the washing up and clearing up the kitchen and dining area afterwards. I being a Tomboy all my life took exception to this and through my protests got it switch over for a six week trial. It was good for everyone. The girls learned how to work a drill and make something out of wood and the boys learned how good it was to be able to cook a meal for themselves. We should all be allowed to do as we please (within reason, Of course) despite what traditional gender stereotypes dictate.
Simply solved by letting the students choose where they want to go, that's what the school should have done. But I don't think they meant harm.
I'm sure no one meant any harm, but when things like this event are overlooked or just brushed off, it DOES harm, especially when you realize how widespread these small, well-intended but clearly sexist types of events are. It's amazing that in this day and age someone in the school's staff didn't think there was anything wrong with this, but I love the way this Dad handled it--no "poor me" victim attitude at all (I seriously don't understand why some commenters had any issue with his note). He used some sly humour to point out what should have been obvious and then encouraged the school to "catch up" to the rest of us living in 2017. I too get tired of all of the humourless political correctness surrounding gender discussions and think it often serves only to make the issues more confusing. That doesn't mean that we shouldn't challenge sexist attitudes though--I wish more people would do it with a dose of humour like the time-traveler's Dad did!
Load More Replies... Why didn't they give the boys and girls a choice Did the school staff line them up and check
I would encourage people to take pride in the good things we've done as a species. Not the good we've done as a gender or other similar distinctions, but as a species. We've done some pretty bad things as well, but I say we keep the good rollin'. Humans have done some amazing, beautiful things. Let's keep doing them.
My kid's grade 6 class was invited to participate in this awesome round-robin activity day a couple of years back. They gave them about 20 choices of stations, from games to grooming to sports to art... and they had to list their top 5 choices, getting to do 2 or 3 of them, but it was open access to everything. A few boys ended up getting manicures for giggles.
That's nasty because the kids can't chose. Yes most girls will be probably more interested in getting their hair done but what about the BBQ? Don't the girls get to go out for a meal? This is c**p and I say that as someone who does believe that girls and boys are different, however I also acknowledge that some would want the other activity. Why not let them chose where they want to go? As a girl I'd have gone with the boys, now as an adult I would just turn up for the BBQ.
Of course it's fine to enjoy "a traditional gender role activity" if one WANTS TO. Forcing 12 yr old girls to put on makeup is not ok. Denying a child the OPPORTUNITY to enjoy the other activity offered, based on gender, was wrong. It tells her she's only "good for" her looks and that those looks depend on wearing makeup. Also, some parents don't WANT their 12 yr old girls wearing makeup yet anyway. This girl wants to be an engineer, not a beauty queen. She wasn't asking for a special activity be arranged just for her, but only to join the other pre-arranged field trip.
He was right to write the letter! Bravo for him! One day, his daughter will make a fine and talented engineer !
Problem solved - have both activities for both boys and girls. As pointed out, boys need to learn grooming and skin care just as much as girls. And, as a woman I know the importance of going to a hardware store for something for the house and have enough knowledge so the salesperson doesn't sell me something I don't really need. An education is an education people (school administratiors) give it all to all of the children with no exceptions. Just sayin'..............
Girls are girls and boys are boys. And some girls are boys and some boys are girls. Some of either and some neither. Girls like boys and boys like girls. Some girls like girls and some boys like boys. Some like both and some like none. Some are one thing in their youth and another when they're older. For some there's "the one" and some like lots of fun with lots of folk. The sooner we accept that gender and sexuality are fluid spectrums the sooner this damn planet can get on with peace & love for all. That's my 2 cents worth any hoo
I understand that many people do try to play the victim, but I believe this isn't one of those cases. The words specifically used state that it was "only for boys". While we as adults are able to think past that and see it as just something the school is doing, and not how one is to be living life, (in our culture) a child isn't as likely to understand that. Simultaneously the alternate activity was for hair and make up, with no third option presented that I noticed, other than maybe not go to anything and be alone and lonely. Some people like makeup, and there's nothing wrong with that, but to have it forced upon oneself or face being alone is sending a very poor message to our children and prepping them to potentially develop body issues. I don't think there's anything wrong with a person liking/disliking engineering or makeup. Some people like both. But taking away one choice, and then forcing another, upon a child based on gender, is in my opinion wrong, within our current culture.
Good god this is unbelievable and so are some of the comments. She is not screaming victim nor is her father. He had the right to speak out on her behalf. She wants to be an engineer she would enjoy the environment of Bunnings, I am a senior and I love Bunnings always have I too would have chosen it over hair and makeup. Those things a girl learns as she goes along she does not need days off to do that! Does our gender matter as to what we do and do not like? Who has the right to make that decision. The school was wrong her father was right. She should have been given the choice.
I'm guessing they were TERRIFIED that some of the boys would prefer makeup. I remember having to fight to take an electronics class in HS in 1970. But I won. And got an A. The next year, 3 girls were signed up and one of them was taking Electronics 2 because she did a lot of home projects with her dad. It's worth the fight.
Personally, I think BOTH genders should be allowed to choose either of the options. It's ridiculous, because I have seen many males who chose the profession of doing hair, make-up & clothing/jewellery designs. Also, I've known girls who took more of an interest in "tomboyish" activities; whether it's DIY technology, engineering, sport activities or other such choices. Just because you're a girl, it doesn't mean you have to like experimenting with hair & make-up. Same as being a boy doesn't necessarily require you to enjoy DIY & rough-contact sports. We're 17 years into the 21st century, for crying out loud! Give up the stereotyping, already! Let young people make their OWN choices! Is it really so difficult to make changes that can benefit everyone in the long run?? 😑
F***s sake just cause i got a vagina between my legs doesn't mean i dont want a bunnings snag mate
I support this dad, in taking a stand for his daughter. Both genders need to learn the importance of proper grooming and skin, hair and nail care, and both genders would benefit from a workshop at Bunnings. Girls need to know how to chandpge a light bulb or tap washer and howvtomhang a picture. My kids are in their 40’s and I was pleased when both boys and girls were taught to cook and sew as well as a little carpentry and metal work, in fact by daughter got high marks for her metalwork and my son did wonderful embroidery. My son is teaching his son and daughter the basics of sewing. I am pleased that the high school my children attended back in the 1980’s was transporting students so far into the future!
I'm a woman who can't be bothered with makeup who goes to Bunnings too.
Bravo! They could have halved the day and switched. They’d probably found out from the boys parents that activity shouldn’t have played at school at all. Then they’d all have gone to the hardware store which is a super fun way to spend a couple of hours even if you don’t have a project. Great job Mr. Callaghan.
I like the comment from Phillipa B. I think that showing boys how to look good wouldn't be wrong, show them how to tie a tie, polish shoes and iron a shirt and also I think it is not bad to take girls to DIY place and show them that their hands are not only for manicure.
I still remembered a similar incident when I was in daycare/preschool. One day during naptime, the teachers (who were all dressed up for some reason) quickly woke up all of the girls and took them out. However, they forgot about me. When the girls came back, they all had makeup on and their hair done.
I think the school had good intentions, as many (or most) of the girls and guys would have been happy with that set up. Stereotypes exist for a reason. But yeah, they should have had a choice!
As a female I wouldn't have cared about the hardware store, but would have been mad about missing out on bbq! If the teacher had followed the supposed policy, there wouldn't have been an issue..
I didn't get anything when I finished primary school. Lucky kids...
I can't be the only one thinking: why is there a hair and makeup activity going on for 12-year-old girls at a school in the first place? I'm not saying children that age aren't allowed to have any interest in those things, or that promoting them is fundamentally wrong, but it seems really weird to make that a school-sanctioned activity. There are so many more interesting and appropriate educational things they could be doing during recreational time. For instance team-building activities, confidence-building, or communication development. They could volunteer or even visit a local farm or museum; they could get a speaker. Who's idea was it to do prom-prep day for literal 12-year-old children? Am I missing something?
And with the DIY store the argument can certainly be made that those are skills everyone can use and they will likely be called upon to do so at some point in their lives. Which makes the choice to gender segregate the activities especially troubling.
Load More Replies... I (biologically male) wore a dress to the school dance and the biggest, meanest jocks all complimented me. When I said I was a boy, they said they knew. :)
It could be that not wanting to go where she was instructed to go is why she wanted to go to the other place. So for example teacher says you go to XYZ and the pupil says i don't want to go to XYZ. In this instance it may not actually be sexism could just be i want to do what i want.
Reply from the school: Two activities had been organized and each pupil attended the one of their choice. Your daughter and the other girls preferred hairdressing while the boys preferred going to Bunnings. You should talk more to your daughter and learn about her likes and dislikes. Yours truly, The Director.
This is sickening. I would've LOVED the hair and makeup, but that's just me! Everyone should have a choice on what they would like to do and who they would want to be. Gender stereotypes are in the past. People are getting more and more freedom as time advances, but unfortunately some restrictions cling to the present... but not for long. Not on my watch.
Let them choose which outing they want. His daughter wanted to got to Bunnings. I'm sure they had some boys that wanted hair and makeup.
What confused me the most was the fact the children had mere two activities to choose from. Why is there only DIY and grooming? Why can't they attend art class, literature or drama class, or additional sport class?
Way to go, Dad! I'm the youngest of six kids and am the only daughter. I would want to go to the DIY workshops, too! As a young woman, I learned about make up, love getting my hair done but I can also swing a hammer and use power tools. Your daughter is going to wind up an amazing, self confident, and self possessed young woman because of you. #parentingdoneright
...the question is....'What do I think?'..........bloody hell.......bloody Dubbo at its finest!!! ...and what's worse, is that the teacher was probably an import to the area...how quickly local attitudes attach........! laughing all the way.....
It would be interesting to see the fallout if they held the two events on different days and had all children attend both.
For those of you advocating that the children are presented with a choice between the make-over & library vs. the hardware store, you're all completely missing the point: the gender-separated field trips were specifically designed to separate the genders -- not just by anatomy, but also by cultural "norms". Now I'm all for cultural norms, otherwise we'd have anarchy. However, pink-and-blue gender stereotypes are, as the dad wrote, from the 1960s.
All I can say is that there will be plenty of situations that you wish were different but arent. Time to teach our kids the realities of life. Mommy and Daddy wont always be there to place pillows in front of you while you walk.
Thank you Stephen for bringing this to the school's attention and the witty way you presented the situation. Hopefully the school will endeavor to offer events to all the students not based on gender. It appears that the school staff needs to recognize their bias too!
I'm a female and an engineer and i would say this is not the time for questioning a worth of a gender in anyfield, its time to give respect and to give right to choose what we want to be when we grow up.
I failed home economics. (Sewing is stupid, just buy it, i said) But I was allowed to take shop class after a protest. I won first place in CO2 car design and built a bunch a cool stuff
When I was in middle school (a bit after this young lady), we had electives. I knew I wanted to design so I tried for the art classes but the jocks filled them all, thinking it would be easy. We had plenty of boys in home economics (house keeping but what millennials are calling "adulting") and a few other girls in the shop classes I attended. It was not about forcing genders, then. It was all that was available. I am very glad of my shop and home ec classes. All kids should do all things adults need to know in school, or learning from their parents.
so let the boys get a make over and learn how to do makeup on themselves. That would probably stop it quick.
The kids were given a choice. Good grief! Are people really so sensitive these days? Bunch of snowflakes and here I thought Australia had more balls than this!
I had to take home economics and could not take shop. It was ridiculous. This was back in 1973. I am glad he spoke up, because I to would rather go to a hardware store. And believe me, boys that age (and some men I know) need to learn how to groom themselves. Why couldn't it have been a half day of each with a picnic lunch in between for everyone?
When I was in the equivalent grade I wanted to take shop. Nope, had to take home ec. I had been cooking and sewing for years. I wanted to improve my handy woman skills! Oh and we were not allowed to wear makeup at 12! Ancient history. I'm 74. I would have hoped for some progress by now.
I'd have been so much more enraged than this guy. My girl would have been going on that field trip, or the entire world would know it.
For all my elementary school years (exactly 8) I was forced to take part in girlish activities as sewing baby clothes and cross stitching while the boys could make badass wooden DIY projects, creating their own lamps and so on... I am still freaking jealous.... (Even though I like many of the things we girls learned, I would have chosen the boy activities in a blink of an eye)
I remember back in nursery school the boys and girls had to play with gender-specific toys. I wanted to play with the cars but I was told those were boy toys and I should go to the play kitchen and pretend to wash dishes. even at 4 I knew washing dishes wasn't fun. that was in '59 or '60, though.
I know both of my girls would have preferred DIY at Bunnings rather than hair & makeup!
Each child should have been able to choose where they would prefer to go. I agree with Ruby's dad.
I wonder how the principle responded. I agree with the dad, the boys and girls should be offered a choice which they would rather attend.
This whole divide starts at the beginning, this whole "boys toys" and "girls toys" thing is absurd! My favourite items when I was young were radios, cameras, and an electronics project kit. I was born in 1964, my mum was very traditional but my father wasn’t.
As a woman who despises makeup (honestly, even when I was in my teens and 20s, I thought it was silly women needed to be all sorts of colorful to attract a male), I applaud this father and his reaction. I know men who are far better at makeup than I am. And I know I am far better at mechanical things than many men I know. Why does this need to be drawn along gender lines?
Also in Australia & my daughter had a very similar thing. Boys got martial arts lessons & to meet local heroes, girls got make up & "talk about their feelings" I was furious but the school said no one else complained so tough luck basically. We have many local female heroes (cops, firefighters, Dr's, nurses, armed forces personnel) & I think teaching girls self defence is far more important than make up
They should have had at least one non-gender-stereotyped option, something like a park visit, or something with animals, or a unisex crafting project, and kids should have truly been able to choose whichever appealed most to them. Also, I second the comment re. schools not teaching practical life skills that they should teach ALL students: cooking, basic DIY repair, sewing & mending, budgeting, ...
Oh man!!! I didn't HAVING A CHOICE in which activity to do in school was such a big deal. Did I miss the spaceship, trainwreck, or car crash somewhere cuz I was under the impression that we were in the 21st century and moving FORWARD in time, not backwards!!! I'm female, and I get stared at because the first place I go to when I go shopping is the Tools/Paint section!! lol Oh well, I guess I'm not as "advanced" as I thought..............No more "thinking" for me!! lol
When I was a kid every student were given a choice in which crafting class they would like to attend - either woodworks or sewing. One boy wanted to do sewing classes, but the teachers talked him out of that because "all the other boys attend woodwork classes and girls do sewing"... So yeah, you were free to choose as long as you chose the right anserw...
Is that's all you can winge about that so stupid how about get a damn job like most people and you won't have time to worry about such petty snowflake bs
Doing hair and make-up as a school activity. No wonder there are people in the US who are against solar panels because they believe they suck up the energy of the sun. Way to go to dumb down a country.
Except this was in Australia. Re-read the article, Katinka, please.
Load More Replies... What about everything that ISN'T posted on the internet?
Load More Replies... You didn't read the article. You just reacted to the pictures. You have to actually read to understand the full story. He demanded an explanation from the educational institute. So, he did send the letter to the school. She specifically asked her teacher if she could go to Bunnings instead and was told it was only for the boys.
Load More Replies... on behalf of all the female humans, we would do the same for you too :)
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