AMERICAN television psychologist Dr Phil McGraw has sparked controversy by telling the mother of a five-year-old boy that she should not let him play with girls' toys.

The mother had written to the Ask Dr Phil' section of his website asking for advice on her son, who likes playing with Barbie dolls and wearing girls' clothing.

The talk show host responded saying she should, "direct your son in an unconfusing way. Don't buy him Barbie dolls or girls' clothes.

"You don't want to do things that seem to support the confusion at this stage of the game. ... Take the girl things away, and buy him boy toys.''

While Dr Phil said it was not unusual for young boys to experiment with girls' toys and clothes, and even specified that it was "not a precursor to your son being gay'', his comments have drawn criticism from local experts.

Child psychologist Sally-Anne McCormack, from www.parentsonline.com.au, said she would have no concerns with boys playing with stereotypical "girls' toys''.

"At that age, children are still exploring their world and that includes gender roles. It's about learning," she said.

"Being exposed to a variety of different toys promotes creativity and free play, and should be celebrated.''

Ms McCormack said Dr Phil's celebrity status and appeal meant his comments could create needless panic and guilt among parents worldwide.

"Although he is saying that playing with girls' toys does not make a boy homosexual, his use of the word 'confusion' implies strict gender roles and implies that sexual confusion could result,'' Ms McCormack said.

"We need to let kids be kids. As long as toys aren't dangerous, children should play with whatever they want to. The more things they experience, the more they learn.''