Boy Dolls: Seven to Consider
There are many benefits to having a doll for your son, grandson or nephew. While dolls are historical considered a ‘girl’ toy, having a doll for a boy has tremendous social and emotional benefits. You can see some of my thoughts on that here.
Boy Dolls
Additionally, the play potential for girls may be limited without having a boy doll to role play. My daughter, for example, loves being a ‘Mommy’ to her girl doll, but wants to be a Mommy to a boy too. It is something I understand. She sees me as a Mom to a boy and girl and wants to emulate it in her playing. I, myself, even had a boy and girl Cabbage Patch doll when I was growing up in the 80s. It was part of my play pattern as a child.
Luckily, there are many boy dolls on the market now. So whatever the reason, or for whoever it is, it has never been easier to meet play goals or your child’s wishes. Here are my seven favorites:
My Sibling/My Pal Dolls (Loretta Rose, LLC)
A family-owned company (learn more here) whose objective for over 10 years has been to fulfill the demand for boy dolls in the 18-inch doll marketplace, and provide an opportunity for children to learn about important educational themes. My Sibling Dolls and My Pal Dolls are outfitted, labeled, and packaged by adults with disabilities at a local sheltered workshop. They have many boy dolls with a variety of themes and ethnicities for a large selection of boy dolls in the market. (MSRP: $64.99)
American Girl
New to the boy doll market, American Girl released its first boy doll this year named Logan. Accessories and clothing is limited at this time, and there is only one boy doll option with a set look. However, for American Girl fans, this is a welcome addition to their line up. (MSRP: $115)
Luvabeau (Spinmaster)
More of a baby doll, Spinmaster immediately included a boy baby in their new release this year of the Luvabella/Luvabeau line. One of The Toy Insider’s Top 12 Tech picks, it enables a child to care for a baby boy in addition to the girls they have in the product line. (MSRP: $99.99)
Our Generation
With only one boy doll that I could find, it is an option for those looking for a boy doll at a great price point though. Primarily found at Target, there are some accessories available with the the larger play line accessible for bigger play potential. (MSRP: $24.99)
Wonder Crew (Playmonster)
Wonder Crew® are 15″ tall boy dolls and have a smooth vinyl head, arms and legs, and a soft huggable body. The boys come outfitted as a superhero, plus a matching cape and mask for the child. The theme is “adventure through friendship!” to give the feeling of being a superhero everyday. There are also a few options for those looking to find a certain skin tone and eye color. (MSRP: $29.99)
Boy Story
The Boy Story dolls active joints, including ball joints. There are just two boys from which to chose, but a good selection of clothes and accessories. The packaging is even designed for play. For younger tots, the dolls can develop motor skills and nurturing. For the older kiddos, they can create adventure stories and friendship. (MSRP: $89.99)
Cabbage Patch Kids
Considering my boy doll growing up was a Cabbage Patch Kid, I would be remiss by not including it in my boy doll roundup. While only a handful are available, it is a great option in the boy doll repertoire. Another benefit is that there are clothing options available for full role play potential. My favorite is the adoption story with name and birthday on the birth certificate making it a fun addition. (MSRP: $39.99)
Whether you are buying a boy doll for your son or daughter, it can teach any child empathy, foster imagination, develop social skills and eliminate doll stereotypes. Hopefully one of these above dolls finds a place in your home!