Ok
DD and DNephew are both 5 and have recently received their end of term reports. DD's report is very good-DN's more concerning- lots of 'emergings', few 'expecteds'. There are 5 months between them, DD is February born and DNephew is a 'July boy'.
Now, we are very pleased with DD's progress, but I am a little bit fed up of comments from various relatives- like- 'well, she's a girl, they're more mature' and DN is a July-born boy, it's to be expected'. DD certainly isn't particularly mature from my observations.
DN is 5 months younger than DD, which I know makes a huge difference at their age, but the assumption of differences in maturity and ability to cope with school because of their respective genders makes me feel slightly irritated and uncomfortable. I feel these comments are possibly doing both children a disservice- DD because her 'achievements'- such as they are- are potentially undermined by the comments, and DN because his parents may not seek extra support thinking that his behaviours (whole other thread) and attainments are normal for a 'July boy'. I can see the comments continuing throughout their school careers.
Is there any scientific research supporting my relatives' comments or are they stereotyping numpties ?
Any thoughts?
I'm trying to formulate to myself why I feel mildly uncomfortable with this. I would never say anything to my family btw.