There are no toy guns at 4-year-old Eric Muchorski's school or home, but even so, he often plays make-believe with other objects that are meant to be guns. Eric’s mom, Doreen, doesn’t know why.

"We don't know where it comes from, either. We, of course, think that it comes from day care and day care thinks that it must come from home, but I don't know that we can explain it," said Doreen.

Child experts say the truth is, stereotypical play -- like guns for boys or dolls for girls, is hard to explain. Biology, environment, the media and our culture all play a role in determining your child's preferences.

"There's no one answer why girls play one way and boys play another except for people feel there are biological differences and I think that parents need to provide a variety of materials for children and let the children choose what they want to play with," said therapist Gloria Aronson-Weinberg.

Let your child know what you believe. If war toys are too violent, explain that guns hurt people. Your input counts even if the play continues. Find a middle ground. Suggest a profession for a doll, or look for war toys with a historic bent.

Finally, experts say we should live the lessons we want children to learn. Let him see dad in the kitchen or mom balancing the checkbook.

You can find helpful parenting information by visiting Parenting Magazine’s Web site. Just click on the link: Parenting Magazine