3 Quick Tips to Use the New Barbies

I had fully intended to write a post about diversity and neuroscience this week. In my last blog post, I had introduced the topic and was excited to get a few posts out about it. But then Barbie came out with several new dolls and let's face it, they are everywhere! And people have very strong opinions.

I have read some articles that think the new dolls are a triumph. Thank goodness Barbie is now recognizing that women have curves, different color skin, and curly (not those gentle blonde waves cascading down Barbie's back, but something with actual texture) hair. Others are a bit more skeptical, saying that giving girls "curvy Barbie" will only make these girls feel bad about themselves. Still others are saying that no matter what Barbie does, they are not comfortable with the message that it portrays to young girls. So what is a parent to do when their child is asking...begging...for one of the new Barbies? 

1. Recognize that your child is going to be exposed to Barbie-and other dolls-whether you have one or not. You may choose not to buy a Barbie for your house, but remember that not all parents will feel that way. And unless you want to end all playdates, realize that your girl (or boy!) may end up playing with it anyway. 
2. Use the New Barbie to add diversity-no matter your child's color or body type. It is great that your child can now have a Barbie that looks like her (or him). But don't stop there! Get Barbies that look like other kids your child is exposed to, or children that they are not! Not comfortable with Barbie in general? Check out some of these other options for dolls that can also add diversity to your collection.
3. Pay attention to how your child is using his/her Barbies. Are all of the Barbies playing with one another or is one Barbie being excluded because of her color, or hair, or clothes, or body type? Play often mirrors real life. Toddlers and preschoolers use pretend play to make sense of their worlds. You may be able to gather some important information about what is going on in your child's classroom or school based on how he/she is playing with diverse dolls. If you see your child doing something that you feel is discriminatory, don't correct right away. Ask questions about why he or she feels that way. Ask if he or she has seen the same scenario happening. Have a conversation at home and then bring it to the teacher or school if necessary. 

Either way, dolls are not going anywhere. Assume that your child is going to be playing with them, even if it's not at your house. If you do get some new Barbies, use them to talk to your child about diversity. It's a great way to have fun, while still learning! After playing with the Barbies together, sign up for our newsletter and receive a free list of diverse books for kids! It's a great additional way to bond and learn more about diversity! 

For more tips about talking to kids about race and diversity, see my posts for ​babies, toddlers, and school-aged kids. And don't forget to take our survey so we can find out more about what you want to read and hear on Culturally Competent Kids!