The systematic inequality of gender representations in television programming for preschool and older children throughout the world has been well documented. Very little is known, however, about the nature of gender representations in television programs aimed at children in infancy and toddlerhood. This study aims to fill this gap using the case of BabyTV, which is the first television channel in the world directed at infants and toddlers. The qualitative analysis of 39 channel’s programs has yielded results that are in line with previous research demonstrating the dominance of male characters in programming that targets older children, as well as gender stereotyping along traditional lines. It seems that the freedom afforded this channel by virtue of featuring animated characters is counterproductive: rather than using animals or objects to present gender equality, the creators default to male characters as the norm, and to stereotypical depictions and behaviors of female characters.

This study explored innovations in gender representations in children’s television that depart from the mainstream of conservative formulas and stereotypes of gender. The four finalists of the PRIX JEUNESSE 2016 Gender Prize programs are critically analyzed for their innovative presentation of gender as well as reflected upon during discussion groups of television professionals. Tasmina: The Horse Girl from Bangladesh challenges traditional gender roles; How Ky Turned into Niels from The Netherlands shares the life of a transgender pre-adolescent boy; Annedroids: Paling Around from Canada role models a technological girl and presents a non-gendered character; and Truth Lies – Feminine from Argentina reflects on gender fluidity. While each of the programs takes a different approach to gender equality, taken together, the four finalists are groundbreaking and important milestones in efforts to advance children’s television as among the leading socializers for gender equity

The Clearinghouse Yearbook of 2017 present examples of interventions from around the world attempting to break gender barriers in media and secondly, explore the influence and consequences of exposure to gender representations – both traditional as well as counter-traditional – on children and youth. The initiation of this volume was motivated by many dedicated scholars, practitioners, and activists worldwide to rectify gender inequalities portrayed in the media consumed by children.