Dolls have been coveted and cherished toys as long as there have been children. They are classic, and have withstood the test of many many generations. Quite literally as even many grown up women still collect dolls!
Here are just a few fantastic reasons to buy your child (girl or boy!) a doll!
1. Encourages imagination!
Anything that gets their eyes off a screen is a bonus in my book! Seeing them create little stories, and dialogue is wonderful! Anything can happen when playing with dolls. There are no limits to the imagination!
2. Fosters creativity!
We are constantly creating stuff for the dolls and learning how to see things differently, repurposing items, doing crafts.
3. Enhances fine motor skills.
Dressing, undressing, buttons, shoes, brushing hair, moving the doll are all developing a child's fine motor skills
4. Build relationship and communication skills.
Children can act out real life scenarios, such as playing with friends, going to school, going to the doctor, dance class etc. They practise all sorts of conversations between dolls!
5. Play alone
As important as it is for kids to develop social skills and play with other children, it is also important that they learn to play alone. Children (at least mine) tend to play with dolls on their own better and longer than any other toy we have.
6. Keeps them young
Kids grow up way too fast these days. Playing with dolls keeps that little child inside around a little bit longer.
7. Express emotions.
Doll play is a great and safe way for children to express their feelings, fears etc and to gain understanding of how your child is feeling.
8. Provides companionship.
A doll can be a great friend to whisper secrets and dreams to! And having that special friend can help kids feel safe, less alone.
9. Brings out the nurturer.
Practicing doll care helps them develop nurturing skills and empathy towards others.
10. Boys and girls can play together. (And moms too!)
We have boys and boy dolls and they play soccer, minecraft, ride dump trucks, enjoy campfires and have a pet turtle. They get together with the girl dolls for cupcakes and movie nights.
Doll play is just plain fun! Which doll are you hoping to get under the Christmas tree this year!?
I love your list and completely agree!
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