AITA for asking my aunt what part of the p*nis was required to operate a toy?

Some parents prefer to raise their kids without rigid gender norms, but one woman’s pregnancy decisions sparked a full-blown family feud.

She and her husband decided to include a mix of toys and clothing for their baby girl, rather than sticking to just pink and “girly” items. But at her baby shower, her younger aunt went on a loud tirade, claiming she was forcing her child to be trans—just because she got a toy truck and a book about construction sites.

Fed up, she clapped back with a hilarious one-liner—but now her aunt is trashing her on Facebook. Was she too harsh, or was this completely justified?

‘AITA for asking my aunt what part of the pnis was required to operate a toy?’*

Expert Analysis:

Toys & Clothes Don’t Determine Gender Identity

According to child development experts, gender identity is innate, not something that can be influenced by clothing or toys. Dr. Diane Ehrensaft, a developmental psychologist, states, “Toys don’t make kids trans. Kids gravitate toward what interests them, and restricting that can actually be more harmful.”

A truck won’t “turn” a girl into a boy—just like a doll won’t “turn” a boy into a girl.

Enforcing Gender Norms Can Be Harmful

Studies show that strict gender roles limit children’s development. A report from the UNICEF Gender Socialization Project found that children who are restricted to gendered toys may miss out on important cognitive and social skills.

By giving kids a variety of toys, parents allow them to explore different interests and skills, rather than forcing them into outdated stereotypes.

The Real Problem? The Aunt’s Ignorance

Rather than celebrating the baby, OP’s aunt hijacked the baby shower to push her own uninformed, outdated views.
Her Facebook ranting suggests that she cares more about controlling OP’s parenting than about supporting her future niece.

How to Handle This & Move Forward

Ignore or Block the Facebook Drama: Engaging will only fuel more negativity. Either ignore, block, or limit your aunt’s access. Let her rant into the void—her opinion won’t change your parenting choices.
Set Boundaries for Future Interactions: If she continues making toxic comments, consider limiting her involvement in your child’s life. Make it clear that her outdated views won’t be tolerated in your household.
Continue Raising Your Child the Way You See Fit: Give your daughter a wide range of choices—whether she likes trucks, dolls, or both. Teach her that her interests are valid, no matter what other people say.

Here’s what Redditors had to say about OP’s situation:

The overwhelming consensus? OP is NTA, and her aunt’s reaction was completely ridiculous. Most users loved her response, and many pointed out that her aunt’s mindset is outdated, ignorant, and downright laughable.