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Lipstick and Lace
Is There a Need for More Socially Responsible Toys for Little Girls? By Teri Brown
"Parents need to present dolls in a way that children understand that they are just a game and something to play with and that they don't need to identify the images or values presented by these dolls with themselves, or model themselves after them,"Goldstein says. "Parents should also limit children's time playing with toys, and be conscientious about helping them to recognize and make responsible decisions."
Goldstein says parents need to offer positive images and models that their children can look up to, and they need to help themunderstandwhat the media and the toy industry puts in front of them in a mindful and informative way. She also believes parents have to guide their children in making responsible choices. "Parents have to arm their children with the ability to make smart decisions on a daily basis as situations arise," Goldstein says.
Peter Adkison, CEO of Hidden City Games and publisher of trading cards designed for girls, was one of those experts. He believes that alternatives need to be offered. "We think that it's important that there be games and toys available on the shelves that spark conversations about things other than just fashion trends and hairstyles," Adkison says. "We're not trying to take a moral high ground we just simply want to ensure that there is more balance in the market, and alternative products available for parents who share these ideals."