The researchers find that kindergartens generally put the least amount of effort into topics and areas of the framework plan that they perceive as challenging. This is the natural result of a hectic day in the kindergarten, and gender equality is one of the areas perceived to be difficult. But when those responsible for implementing the framework plan report that there is a need for competency development in other challenging areas, gender equality is never one of these – the topic is simply not mentioned. "Maybe the reason is that the topic is seen as politically sensitive and is therefore neglected. In one kindergarten we visited, the staff had tried to divide the group into boys and girls for certain periods because they found that the boys took control and they wanted the girls to be able to express themselves. But when the parents reacted negatively, the staff just gave up," explains Dehnæs Hogsnes. - Iphigenie from Bookmarklet

A common belief is that boys are interested in objects and girls are concerned with relationships. According to the researchers, this becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy because the girls receive feedback as if they are relationally oriented whereas boys are encouraged to focus on things. The researchers also believe this is illustrated by the perception that when girls seek out contact with adults in connection with an activity they are doing, they are using the activity to gain attention. In contrast, the noisy games boys play are not interpreted as a ploy to gain attention. - Iphigenie