A Field Guide to Boys and Girls: Differences, Similarities: Cutting Edge Information Every Parent Needs to Know

New York Times science writer Gilbert taps into parents' natural fascination with gender issues and urges readers to move beyond the fear that discovering sex differences will lead to sex biases.Beginning with gender differences in the womb, Gilbert walks parents through such issues as early brain development, Barbies, guns, math and personality traits such as aggressiveness or sociability. While much of the information won't seem earth-shattering to parents who keep up on such matters, they will be pleased by Gilbert's thorough research. Some may be surprised to learn that boys are more vulnerable than girls at birth or that girls have a higher risk of sports injuries as they grow older. Each chapter includes a helpful summary and advice on what parents can do to combat problems related to their child's gender. For instance, the author suggests parents talk more to their infant sons to help them develop language skills and help their toddler daughters build self-confidence by resisting the urge to shield them from failure. Parents and educators will find this a useful resource that summarizes the main issues and provides solid advice on how to ensure equality for kids of both genders at home and at school. (Dec.)