Moving beyond stereotypes to discover how gender truly impacts learning and what families can do to support every child’s success

The debate about gender and academic performance has evolved significantly over the past decades. While we’ve moved away from simplistic notions that one gender is universally “better” at school, research reveals fascinating insights about how boys and girls may experience education differently. Understanding these nuances can help Canadian parents better support their children’s unique learning journeys.

The Complex Reality of Gender and Learning

Rather than asking whether boys or girls are “better” at school, modern educational research focuses on understanding the diverse ways children learn and thrive. Gender is just one factor among many that influence academic success, alongside individual personality, family support, teaching quality, and socioeconomic factors.

“Every child is unique,” explains Dr. Heather Blair, professor of language and literacy at the University of Alberta. “While we observe some general trends between genders, the variation within each gender group is often greater than the differences between them.”

Key Areas Where Gender Differences Emerge

Reading and Language Arts Research consistently shows that girls, on average, demonstrate stronger performance in reading and writing assessments. However, this gap may reflect testing methods and curriculum choices rather than innate ability differences.

Mathematics and Science Historical gaps favouring boys in math and science have largely disappeared in elementary and secondary education, though disparities persist in some post-secondary fields and career choices.

Classroom Behaviour and Engagement Differences in how boys and girls typically engage with traditional classroom structures can impact their academic experience and outcomes.

Understanding Reading and Literacy Differences

The Reading Gap Reality

The Canadian Council on Learning’s comprehensive report reveals that 13-year-old girls consistently outperform boys in reading proficiency by significant margins. This pattern appears internationally, with similar gaps observed across 57 countries in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA).

Why This Gap Exists:

  • Different Reading Preferences: Boys often gravitate toward non-fiction, graphic novels, sports magazines, and digital content, while traditional curricula emphasize literary fiction
  • Social Perceptions: Many boys view reading as a “feminine” activity, particularly when role models in their lives don’t demonstrate reading engagement
  • Assessment Methods: Standardized tests may favour narrative and analytical skills that align with girls’ typical strengths
  • Limited Book Choices: School libraries and curricula often undervalue the genres boys prefer

Supporting All Young Readers

For Parents of Boys:

  • Embrace diverse reading materials: magazines, graphic novels, instruction manuals, and digital content all count as valuable reading
  • Model reading behaviour: Fathers and male caregivers reading openly sends powerful messages
  • Connect reading to interests: Find books about hockey, gaming, science experiments, or other passions
  • Don’t dismiss “violent” or action-packed content if age-appropriate—engagement matters more than genre

For Parents of Girls:

  • Encourage exploration beyond traditional preferences: introduce non-fiction, biographies, and technical texts
  • Support confidence in expressing opinions about challenging texts
  • Balance fiction with informational reading to build diverse literacy skills

The Digital Literacy Advantage

Dr. Blair’s research reveals that boys often excel in digital literacy skills that traditional assessments don’t capture. Many boys naturally develop sophisticated abilities to navigate multiple screens, synthesize information from various digital sources, and engage with interactive media—skills increasingly valuable in our digital world.

Classroom Behaviour and Learning Styles

Understanding Physical Learning Needs

Research by Dr. Leonard Sax suggests that many boys aged 6-8 learn more effectively while standing or moving, while girls of the same age often prefer seated learning. This doesn’t mean boys can’t learn to sit still, but rather that accommodating different physical needs can enhance learning for all children.

Supporting Different Learning Styles:

  • Movement Integration: Look for schools that incorporate movement breaks, standing desks, or kinesthetic learning activities
  • Fidget Tools: Simple items like stress balls or fidget cubes can help active learners focus
  • Varied Seating Options: Bean bags, exercise balls, or standing areas can benefit many children
  • Physical Activity: Ensure adequate recess and physical education time for all students

Playground Dynamics and School Success

Children’s play patterns often reflect and reinforce academic behaviours. Girls frequently engage in collaborative, conversation-based activities that mirror classroom expectations, while boys may prefer competitive, physical play that develops different but equally valuable skills.

The Challenge: When schools overly restrict active play, some boys may disengage from the educational environment entirely. Conversely, social hierarchies established on playgrounds can carry over into classrooms, sometimes disadvantaging quieter or less athletic children.

Solutions for Schools and Parents:

  • Advocate for diverse play opportunities that suit different temperaments
  • Ensure playground supervision focuses on safety while allowing appropriate risk-taking
  • Address bullying and social exclusion proactively
  • Recognize that leadership can take many forms

Mathematics and Science: Closing Historical Gaps

The Success Story

Canadian students now show minimal gender differences in mathematics and science achievement at elementary and secondary levels. The 2007 Pan-Canadian Assessment Program found that 13-year-old boys and girls perform at similar levels in these subjects.

How the Gap Was Closed:

  • Attitude Changes: Challenging stereotypes about girls’ mathematical abilities improved performance
  • Teaching Methods: Incorporating collaborative learning and real-world applications benefited all students
  • Role Model Visibility: Increased representation of women in STEM fields inspired more girls to pursue these subjects
  • Curricular Changes: More emphasis on problem-solving and less on rote memorization leveled the playing field

Ongoing Challenges

While K-12 gaps have largely closed, disparities persist in post-secondary STEM enrollment and career choices. This suggests that subtle biases and social pressures continue to influence educational and career trajectories.

Supporting STEM Success for All:

  • Early Exposure: Provide hands-on science and math experiences for all children
  • Growth Mindset: Emphasize that mathematical and scientific thinking can be developed through practice
  • Real-World Connections: Show how STEM skills apply to diverse careers and interests
  • Diverse Role Models: Expose children to scientists, engineers, and mathematicians of all genders and backgrounds

The Teacher Gender Question

Many parents wonder whether having more male elementary teachers would help close literacy gaps or improve boys’ engagement. Research suggests the answer is more nuanced than simply matching teacher and student genders.

What Really Matters

Teaching Quality Over Gender: High-quality instruction benefits all students regardless of the teacher’s gender. Effective teachers:

  • Differentiate instruction to meet diverse learning needs
  • Create inclusive classroom environments
  • Use varied teaching methods and materials
  • Build positive relationships with all students
  • Have high expectations for everyone

The Role Model Factor: While teacher gender alone doesn’t determine student success, diverse teaching staff can provide valuable role models and perspectives.

Home Influence Is Crucial

Dr. Tracy Lavin notes that children’s attitudes toward reading and learning are largely formed before they enter school. This places significant responsibility on families to model positive learning behaviours.

For All Parents:

  • Demonstrate that reading and learning are valuable for everyone
  • Share your own learning experiences and challenges
  • Show children that adults continue learning throughout life
  • Avoid gender-stereotyped comments about academic subjects

Practical Strategies for Canadian Families

Creating Inclusive Learning Environments at Home

Diversify Learning Materials

  • Stock your home library with fiction and non-fiction appealing to different interests
  • Include magazines, newspapers, graphic novels, and digital content
  • Rotate materials regularly to maintain interest
  • Let children see adults engaging with various types of reading

Accommodate Different Learning Preferences

  • Create quiet study spaces for children who focus better in calm environments
  • Allow movement during homework time for kinesthetic learners
  • Use background music if it helps concentration
  • Experiment with different times of day for challenging academic work

Challenge Stereotypes Constructively

  • Avoid comments like “boys will be boys” or “girls are naturally good at reading”
  • Encourage all children to try challenging subjects and activities
  • Celebrate effort and improvement rather than just natural talent
  • Discuss how famous innovators overcame early struggles in their fields

Advocating at School

Communication with Teachers

  • Share insights about your child’s learning preferences and interests
  • Ask how you can support classroom learning at home
  • Request specific strategies for subjects where your child struggles
  • Inquire about accommodations for different learning styles

School Environment Considerations

  • Look for schools that value diverse teaching methods
  • Seek environments that accommodate different learning styles
  • Ensure schools have strong anti-bullying policies and inclusive cultures
  • Consider whether single-gender or co-educational settings work best for your individual child

When to Seek Additional Support

Warning Signs to Watch For

Academic Concerns:

  • Significant gaps between ability and performance
  • Consistent struggles despite appropriate support
  • Avoidance of homework or school activities
  • Declining grades over time

Social and Emotional Signs:

  • Statements like “I’m not good at school” or “School isn’t for kids like me”
  • Reluctance to participate in class discussions
  • Social isolation or conflicts with peers
  • Changes in behaviour or mood related to school

Resources and Next Steps

Within the School System:

  • Request meetings with teachers and support staff
  • Explore learning assessments if needed
  • Investigate available tutoring or enrichment programs
  • Consider whether classroom placement or school choice might help

External Support:

  • Educational consultants can provide personalized learning strategies
  • Tutoring services may address specific skill gaps
  • Counselling can help with motivation and confidence issues
  • Medical evaluation may be appropriate for persistent difficulties

The Bigger Picture: Preparing Children for Success

Beyond Gender: Individual Differences Matter Most

While understanding general gender trends can inform educational approaches, every child’s unique combination of interests, abilities, learning preferences, and personality traits matters more than their gender. Successful educational experiences recognize and nurture these individual differences.

21st Century Skills for All

Modern education must prepare all children for a rapidly changing world where traditional gender roles continue to evolve. Essential skills include:

  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Communication and collaboration
  • Digital literacy and technological fluency
  • Creativity and innovation
  • Cultural competence and empathy
  • Adaptability and resilience

Building Confidence and Resilience

Perhaps most importantly, children need to develop confidence in their ability to learn and grow. This means:

  • Embracing challenges as opportunities to develop new skills
  • Learning from mistakes rather than avoiding difficult tasks
  • Seeking help when needed without shame
  • Celebrating progress regardless of starting point
  • Maintaining curiosity about the world around them

Looking Forward: The Future of Gender and Education

Continuing Evolution

Our understanding of gender and learning continues to evolve as research becomes more sophisticated and inclusive. Future developments may include:

  • More personalized learning approaches that accommodate individual differences
  • Better integration of digital literacy into traditional curricula
  • Continued progress toward gender equity in all academic areas
  • Greater recognition of diverse learning styles and intelligences

The Parent’s Role

Canadian parents play a crucial role in supporting their children’s educational success by:

  • Staying informed about educational research and best practices
  • Advocating effectively for their children’s needs
  • Modeling lifelong learning and positive attitudes toward education
  • Supporting inclusive environments that benefit all children
  • Focusing on individual growth rather than competitive comparisons

Conclusion: Supporting Every Child’s Potential

The question of whether boys or girls are “better” at school misses the point entirely. Instead of seeking simple answers about gender differences, Canadian families should focus on understanding and supporting each child’s unique learning journey.

By recognizing that gender is just one factor among many that influence academic success, parents can move beyond stereotypes to provide truly supportive educational environments. This means advocating for diverse teaching methods, challenging limiting beliefs, and celebrating the varied ways children can demonstrate their intelligence and capabilities.

Most importantly, every child deserves to feel that school is a place where they can succeed, grow, and develop their full potential—regardless of their gender, learning style, or individual characteristics. When we create educational environments that truly serve all learners, we set the stage for a more inclusive and successful future for everyone.

The goal isn’t to determine which gender excels, but to ensure that all children have the support, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive academically and personally. In this endeavor, understanding gender differences can inform our approaches, but our commitment to individual success must remain paramount.