Research by the LEGO Group, a national sponsor of the UEFA Women’s EURO 2022, reveals 79% of young girls are inspired by women who challenge old-fashioned gender expectations, while over half (54%) of kids and 66% of parents think it’s important role models don’t conform to gender stereotypes.
New study shines a light on the importance of children’s role models in inspiring them to reach their full potential and rebuild the story of old fashioned gender stereotypes. 42% of kids report their role models have helped them believe in themselves and 41% agree a role model has inspired them to try something new.
Study reveals that despite the clear need for role models, 78% of parents wish their child had more to look up to. In light of this the LEGO Group, in partnership with UEFA Women’s EURO 2022, has created lesson plans for primary school teachers to encourage children to celebrate and identify their role models through play.
‘Play Your Own Way’ lesson plans have been launched today by football stars and role models Alex Scott and Lucy Bronze. Primary school teachers can now sign up to download the resources at WEURO2022Schools.com.
Ex-footballer and sports commentator Alex Scott said : “I wouldn’t be the person I am today without the role models I had in my life when I was a child, from my mother who taught me to always speak my mind, to my brother who introduced me to football! I’m proud to be partnering with the LEGO Group to help kids celebrate the role models that are inspiring the next generation.”
The LEGO Group has partnered with UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 as part of its commitment to ensure that children’s creative ambitions are not limited by old fashioned gender stereotypes.
Isabel Graham, Head of Marketing, the LEGO Group UK and Ireland says: “This exciting collaboration forms part of our ambition to inspire positive change for future generations and help kids realise their unique talents and potential. With different types of play still heavily judged as being gender specific, it’s important for us to champion inclusive play and help give children the confidence to succeed.”
When questioned about what makes a good role model research shows helping others believe in themselves (47%) and helping others in need (45%) came top of the list of qualities kids thought were important.
Having the confidence to be themselves (30%), changing the world for the better (30%) and standing up for what’s right (30%) were also flagged as qualities kids want to see in their role models.
Data also shines a light on the real world role models inspiring children today, with 40% of children saying their biggest role models can be found in their families.
The LEGO Group is also working with child psychologist Dr Martha Deiros Collado who has identified 5 different types of role models a child might take inspiration from.
Typologies range from the Believer, an individual unafraid to make mistakes through which children can learn the art of perseverance, to the Imperfect One, a person that teaches children to embrace their imperfections.
