In regards to psychological and social development, do you believe children should have gender-specific toys?

I know several people that will only buy their young children gender-specific toys. Almost all of them started buying gender-specific baby everything before and after the baby was born. I actually have yet to meet someone who does not do this on some level. I get that it is a societal norm to do so but I’m wondering when we are going to evolve out of that phase already. All one has to do is walk down a few isles at a toy store to see the incredible difference in toys.

What do you think of this? Should society have outgrown this notion by now? Does it help or hinder society to keep this up?

I am interested in your thoughts on the matter :)

I do not have children myself. But, I believe that things should be rather neutral and/or equal until the child learns what they like. I would have no issue with getting my boy a Barbie doll…or my girl a Hot Wheels toy. Although, I do take issue in how the toy companies portray and distinguish toys via gender. Jeez, even supposed gender-neutral toys tend to come in gender-specific colours.