What term is commonly used by sociologists to describe the way that parents channel their children's interests into toys, games and other activities that are seen as appropriate for their gender?

Canalization is one of the processes of gender role socialisation identified by sociologist Ann Oakley. It involves parents channeling their children's interests into activities and toys that are considered the norm for their gender. For example, encouraging boys to play with building blocks and footballs, and girls to play with dolls and kitchen sets.