Take the Dolls Like Me Poll on Self-Esteem

Take the Dolls Like Me Poll

We’re tracking (unscientifically) responses to the question of how important it is for children of color to have dolls and puppets that look like them. We’ve had the opportunity to chat with several child psychology experts who tell us that all children are fragile and that looking for and finding acceptance is part of growing up healthy and whole.

We’ve learned that when children of color are presented (by unknowing and unwitting adults) with dolls and puppets that look like someone other than themselves, they subconsciously question their importance and acceptance in society. This leads to a host of identity and self-esteem issues. When coupled with the way the media portrays people of color, the subtle denigrating terms that are inculcated in the language children hear, and their virtual invisibleness on television and in movies (i.e. Latino children should see themselves as often and in as many different ways and rolls as Caucasian children), the problem becomes even more serious. This is often exhibited by children of color wanting to look white, not liking their hair or their skin color, or perhaps only wanting to play with white children. In the most serious cases it can lead to self-loathing.

Often parents – particularly white parents of children of color – like to pretend there is only one human race or culture and that their child is no different than any other person. In fact they never discuss culture, race or heritage at all. This is perhaps the most denigrating opinion of all. Every time that child looks in a mirror, he or she sees African American, Biracial, Latino, Asian or whatever their particular heritage is. To say it doesn’t exist or that it is not important is to say the child doesn’t exist or the child is not important. When that child grows up, it steps into a world where culture does exist, it is important, and everyone else belongs – somewhere.  For expert opinions on this topic, visit the Parent Resource Center at DollsLIkeMe.com.

We’re not saying that buying a doll or a puppet will change things – but you’ve got to start somewhere. So, take our poll and let us know how important you think it is for children of color to have dolls and puppets that look like them.

The Dolls Like Me Team
info@dollslikeme.com

Almost Open

After months of hearing "lost at sea," "stuck in customs," and "out of stock on that one," DollsLikeMe.com will finally open it's door October 1. Shipments are arriving daily. The dolls are soooo cute. There is a grand opening special for our friends who have stuck by us - $5.00 off your first purchase over $25. Use this code DLM647Y. It's good through December 31. All of the Furnis dolls are in, as are the Russ Berrie and Duckhouse dolls. The Real Kidz biracial dolls are en route along with the Well Made line of African American, Asian and Latina rag dolls - both lines should be here by Saturday's opening. Most of the furniture and doll clothes are also in. ALL of the books are in. Puppets promised for next week. The great little Small World "Baby and Blankie" featured on our main page won't be in for another 2 weeks. The custom wall hanging/doll blankets are gorgeous. Language Littles are also "on the way." We expect to be fully stocked by October 15. We have the greatest red wool winter coat and hat set for the Duckhouse dolls - wish I had one. The Furnis carrying case fits most of the small cloth dolls beautifully. I highly recommend it. Look to hear from us again in the next few days. If you get a chance to stop by the store after the 1st, let us know what you think.