In my work in the media and in my role as a mother of both a young man and woman, I have been regularly stunned at how girls are routinely labeled, classified, and shaped in negative and limiting ways. From steering girls away from math and science, to a hyper-focus on girls’ looks, bodies, and demeanor, to a far less significant emphasis for girls on leadership, prospective livelihoods and professional paths, it’s clear that crippling gender stereotypes continue to shape the development of the vast majority of children on our planet. Many of us who care deeply about this issue may sometimes feel as if there’s nothing one person can do to move the needle and change this. But thankfully, that’s not true. Each of us can make a difference. Hai Tiet is founder and Chief Woozy at Woozy Moo and is doing his part and using his education, skills and passions to move the needle on gender equality, starting with toys and playtime. As a former U.N. staff member, and drawing on a wide range of skills, talents and experience gleaned from his education at Harvard and Columbia, Hai is on a mission to remove gender discrimination from the toy industry by providing fun for all children. I was thrilled to catch up with Hai and learn more about his toy store Woozy Moo and his ideas about the importance of playtime and toys that don’t discriminate. Their mission, unlike other toy stores, is to avoid the labeling and designations of “girl” or “boy” toys — and focus on empowering and enlivening toys for all. They don’t ignore children with special needs as other toy manufacturers do, and they believe that toys can help make the world a better place. There are eco-friendly, girl empowerment, special needs, and thought-provoking toys. Overall, their mission is to help parents empower their children to be in control of their playtime.

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