Turn off the iPad and bring out the dolls! Unleashing the Cognitive Power of Children's Imagination

Playing with dolls has been a beloved pastime for both girls and boys for centuries. While dolls have traditionally been associated with femininity, modern dolls are evolving to reflect changing attitudes towards gender and diversity. Doll play has numerous cognitive, emotional, and social benefits for children, regardless of their gender. In this blog post, we explore how dolls promote creativity, empathy, imagination, and problem-solving skills. We’ll also provide practical tips for parents and educators who want to encourage imaginative play with dolls in children.

Dolls and Gender Stereotypes

Before diving into the benefits of doll play, it’s crucial to acknowledge the gender stereotypes that dolls have traditionally reinforced. For decades, dolls were marketed primarily to girls, with pink and pastel colors and stereotypically feminine characteristics. Boys were discouraged from playing with dolls, leading to the idea that dolls were only for girls. This attitude perpetuated the notion that caregiving and nurturing were only feminine traits.

However, dolls have undergone a metamorphosis in recent times. The rigid gender binary that constrained doll manufacturing has given way to more inclusive representations of race, gender, and culture. More manufacturers are producing dolls with diverse body shapes, hair textures, skin tones, and gender identifications. These dolls embrace the concept that caregiving and nurturing activities are not gendered and can be enjoyed by children of all genders.

Benefits of Doll Play

Doll play has several cognitive, emotional, and social benefits in children.

Creativity

Playing with dolls encourages creativity as children are free to create storylines, dialogue, and characters. Dressing the dolls, setting up the scene, and pretending to be someone else enhances their imaginative play.

Empathy

Playing with dolls helps children develop empathy and emotional intelligence. By becoming caregivers to their dolls, children learn to understand the needs of others and respond to them. They can relate to their dolls' emotions and learn how to regulate their feelings in the process.

Imagination

Doll play encourages children to use their imaginations to create storylines, dialogue, and characters. Children can manipulate the dolls in different ways to create unique scenarios and acts of pretend play. This type of play allows children to broaden their horizons and explore possibilities of a world beyond themselves.

Problem-Solving Skills

Through doll play, children develop problem-solving skills, such as decision-making, critical thinking, and planning. Children have to think about the possible outcomes of their actions and devise solutions when things do not go as planned.

Tips For Parents and Educators

Parents and educators can encourage doll play by providing children with diverse sets of dolls and accessories, including dolls that represent different races, cultures, abilities, and genders. This style of play can be used to teach children about acceptance, inclusivity, and empathy. Here are some additional tips that parents and educators can consider when promoting doll play:

• Provide dolls that represent and reflect diversity.
• Encourage children to speak for their dolls, promoting language development.
• Plan imaginative play with their dolls.
• Allow children to think creatively with their doll accessories.

Conclusion

Playing with dolls is an enjoyable and productive activity for children of all genders. Doll play promotes creativity, empathy, imagination, and problem-solving skills. It is essential to acknowledge that dolls were traditionally marketed towards girls, but recognizing this fact allows us to provide children with more diverse and inclusive representations. Parents and educators can encourage doll play by providing children with a variety of dolls and accessories that represent diversity and encouraging imaginative play with these dolls. Doll play is a valuable tool to develop future generations with openness to see world through diverse perspectives.

The evolution of dolls from composition to vinyl in the 20th century

The Evolution of Play Dolls: From Composition to Vinyl, featuring Shirley Temple and others.

Children have been playing with dolls for centuries. The earliest wooden dolls were the first to evolve alongside technology and culture. The introduction of vinyl as a material changed the history of dolls. In this post, we will look at the evolution of play dolls from composition to vinyl, and examine some of the most famous dolls. Discover how dolls have changed over time.

The composition doll, made from a mixture of sawdust and glue, was a hit in the early 20th century. Many composition dolls are famous. Composition dolls were popular because of their affordability and durability, and their sawdust composition made them hardy for even the most rough play. Composition dolls showed their age quickly, but hard use and exposure to temperature changes could cause them to crack or even fall.

The first vinyl doll was manufactured in 1948 by the Sun Rubber Company. The old composition dolls had many advantages over the new vinyl doll. It was lighter in weight and softer to touch, making it more user-friendly for young children. Composition dolls showed their age quickly. The popularity of vinyl quickly surged, and companies like Mattel, Ideal, and others began to manufacture their dolls using the material.

The most famous doll of the 20th century was the one named Shirley Temple. The first composition materials doll made by the company was called the "Shirley Temple doll" and she became one of the most popular dolls in history. Her face and outfits made her a favorite of girls. As technology changed, so did Temple. The new line of dolls featuring the same face as before was made from vinyl. The vinyl dolls of Shirley Temple were a hit with collectors.

Betsy McCall, a popular doll in the 1950s and 60s, and the Patti Playpal dolls, produced by Ideal from the 1950s into the 60s, are two famous dolls that transitioned from composition to vinyl. The vinyl dolls were more durable and easier to care for than their composition predecessors.

Not all doll companies used vinyl. Composition dolls were produced by some well into the 1950s. These dolls were delicate and needed special care to avoid damage. The attention to detail and craftsmanship of companies like Madame Alexander and Effanbee is unparalleled.

Over the years, dolls have undergone a number of changes. The evolution of dolls reflects changing attitudes towards children's toys as well as improvements in materials and manufacturing techniques. Children play with dolls a lot today, and they still have a lot of vintage dolls. The legacy of dolls is not slowing down, and we can only imagine what the future holds.

From Teddy Bears to Cabbage Patch Dolls: The Legacy of the Ideal Toy Company

The Ideal Toy Company was a beloved American toy company that was headquartered in New York City. The company was known for producing classic toys like Rubik's Cube, Magic 8 Ball, and Betty Boop dolls. In this blog post, we will explore the history of the Ideal Toy Company and their factory in Queens, New York.

The Ideal Toy Company was founded in 1907 by Morris and Rose Michtom. The Michtoms were Russian immigrants who lived in Brooklyn, New York. They were the first to mass-produce teddy bears, which they named after President Theodore Roosevelt. The bears became a huge hit, and the Michtoms decided to start their own toy company.

In the 1950s and 1960s, the Ideal Toy Company experienced tremendous growth. They began to produce a wide range of toys, including dolls, action figures, games, and puzzles. Some of their most popular toys included the Rubik's Cube, Magic 8 Ball, and the Betsy Wetsy doll.

To keep up with demand, the Ideal Toy Company opened a factory in Queens, New York, in 1947. The factory was located at 58-32 57th Street in Maspeth. The factory was state-of-the-art and was one of the largest toy factories in the United States at the time. The factory employed thousands of workers and produced millions of toys each year.

The Ideal Toy Company continued to thrive throughout the 1970s and 1980s. However, in the 1990s, the company began to struggle. They faced increased competition from other toy companies, and sales began to decline. In 1997, the Ideal Toy Company filed for bankruptcy, and the factory in Queens was closed.

Today, the former Ideal Toy Company factory in Queens is home to a variety of businesses. The building has been repurposed as office and warehouse space, and it is no longer used for toy manufacturing.

In conclusion, the Ideal Toy Company was a beloved American toy company that was known for producing classic toys like Rubik's Cube, Magic 8 Ball, and Betty Boop dolls. The company's factory in Queens, New York, was state-of-the-art and produced millions of toys each year. Although the company faced financial struggles in the 1990s and ultimately filed for bankruptcy, the legacy of the Ideal Toy Company lives on through the many toys they produced and the memories they created for generations of children.


The Cabbage Patch Doll was created by artist Xavier Roberts in 1978. Roberts created a line of dolls called "Little People," which he sold at local craft fairs in Georgia. The dolls were made of cloth and had unique faces and names. Each doll was one-of-a-kind and had its own personality.

In 1982, Roberts partnered with the Ideal Toy Company to mass-produce the Cabbage Patch Doll. The doll was an instant success and quickly became one of the most popular toys of the 1980s. The dolls were marketed as "adoptable" and each came with its own birth certificate and adoption papers.

The Cabbage Patch Doll craze reached a peak in 1983 when stores across the United States sold out of the dolls, leading to long lines and even riots in some locations. The dolls remained popular throughout the 1980s and 1990s, and Ideal continued to produce different versions and accessories.

The success of the Cabbage Patch Doll was a major factor in the Ideal Toy Company's growth in the 1980s. The company's factory in Queens, New York, was one of the primary locations where the dolls were manufactured.

Today, the Cabbage Patch Doll remains a beloved toy that is still produced by Wicked Cool Toys, which acquired the rights to the brand in 2018. The dolls continue to be popular with children and collectors alike, and they are a testament to the legacy of the Ideal Toy Company and their commitment to creating high-quality and beloved toys.

"From Jobs to Plastic Pollution: How Mattel's Move to China in the 1950s Impacted American Workers and the Environment"

Introduction

The 1950s marked a significant period of growth for the toy industry, with many iconic toys and brands emerging during this time. One such brand was Mattel, a company that has become synonymous with dolls and other children's toys. In this blog post, we'll explore Mattel's early years in the 1950s and examine why the business moved to China. 

Mattel was founded in 1945 by Ruth Handler and her husband Elliot. The company started as a small venture creating picture frames, but Ruth's entrepreneurial spirit led her to explore new opportunities. In 1955, Mattel introduced its first major product, the Barbie doll, named after Ruth's daughter Barbara. Barbie quickly became a cultural phenomenon and cemented Mattel's place in the toy industry. In the 1950s, Mattel faced stiff competition from other toy manufacturers, such as Hasbro and Ideal. 

To stay ahead of the competition, Mattel continued to innovate and release new products, such as the Chatty Cathy doll and the Hot Wheels line of toy cars. Despite the success of its products, Mattel faced challenges in production costs. The cost of producing toys in the United States was rising, and Mattel needed to find a way to reduce costs while maintaining quality. 

In the 1960s, Mattel made the decision to move its production to Japan, where labor costs were lower. However, the move to Japan was not without its challenges. Mattel struggled to find reliable manufacturers and faced issues with quality control. 

The move to China in the 1960's

To overcome these issues, Mattel eventually moved its production to China, where labor costs were even lower, and the manufacturing industry was more developed. The move to China proved to be a smart business decision for Mattel. The company was able to reduce its production costs significantly, which allowed it to invest more in research and development and expand its product lines. 

Today, Mattel remains a major player in the toy industry, with its products sold in more than 150 countries. In conclusion, Mattel's success in the 1950s can be attributed to its innovative products and entrepreneurial spirit. The company's move to China in the 1960s was a strategic decision to reduce production costs and maintain competitiveness in the toy industry. 

While the move to China had its challenges, it ultimately allowed Mattel to continue to grow and expand its product lines, cementing its place as one of the most iconic toy brands in the world. 

How the move to China affected jobs in the USA

The decision to move Mattel's production to China had a significant impact on jobs in the United States. As manufacturing jobs moved overseas, many American workers found themselves without work. The shift to cheaper labor in China was a trend that affected many industries, not just the toy industry. The loss of manufacturing jobs had a ripple effect on the economy, as communities that relied on these jobs for their livelihoods were impacted. In the case of Mattel, the move to China meant that the company no longer relied on American workers to produce its products, leading to the closure of factories and layoffs. 

However, it is important to note that the decision to move production to China was driven by market forces. As competition in the toy industry intensified, companies like Mattel needed to find ways to reduce costs and maintain competitiveness. For many companies, moving production overseas was seen as a way to achieve these goals. Despite the impact on American jobs, the move to China allowed Mattel to continue to grow and expand its product lines. The company was able to invest in research and development and innovate new products that would not have been possible if it had remained solely reliant on American manufacturing. 

Moving back to the USA

In recent years, there has been a growing trend of companies moving their manufacturing operations back to the United States, driven in part by rising labor costs in China and a desire to support domestic manufacturing. However, for many companies, the decision to move production overseas is still a necessary step to remain competitive in a global market.

Moving to China led to more plastic pollution

 

In addition to the impact on jobs, Mattel's move to China also had a significant environmental impact. As the company ramped up production in China, it generated a large amount of plastic waste from the production of its iconic dolls. Unfortunately, much of this plastic waste ended up in landfills and oceans, contributing to the growing global problem of plastic pollution. A significant amount of this plastic waste was made up of discarded Barbie dolls and other toys made by Mattel. In fact, according to a 2018 report from Greenpeace, Mattel was among the top three worst plastic polluters in the world. The report found that the company produced over 17,000 tons of plastic waste each year, much of which ended up in landfills or was dumped into the ocean. The environmental impact of Mattel's plastic waste has been felt across the globe, as discarded toys and other plastic items continue to accumulate in oceans, harming marine life and ecosystems. 

The long-term consequences of this pollution are still not fully understood, but it is clear that action needs to be taken to address the issue. In recent years, Mattel has taken steps to reduce its plastic waste and improve its environmental impact. The company has set ambitious goals to increase the use of recycled materials in its products and packaging and has committed to achieving 100% recycled, recyclable or bio-based plastic materials in all of its products and packaging by 2030. Overall, the impact of Mattel's move to China on the environment has been significant, with many tons of plastic waste ending up in landfills and oceans. While the company has taken steps to address the issue, it is clear that more needs to be done to address

the growing problem of plastic pollution. 

Plastic dolls contribute to plastic pollution that is why rag dolls are a better choice

Plastic dolls in general contribute heavily to plastic pollution, not just Mattel's dolls. Plastic toys never really break down.  Wood toys are preferable, and in my case I make rag dolls, which can be shredded at the end of their life cycle and made into other products. 

"From Rags to Personalized Riches: The Evolution of Rag Dolls and the Rise of Photo Rag Dolls"

The evolution into photo rag dolls

Lidia's Dolls Photo
Doll with Pink Hair

Since the last blog post, a new trend in rag dolls has emerged - photo rag dolls. These unique dolls feature the face of the customer on the doll, creating a one-of-a-kind toy that is both personalized and special.

Photo rag dolls are typically made by printing a photo of the customer's face onto fabric, which is then cut and sewn onto the doll's head. The rest of the doll is made from traditional rag doll materials, such as scraps of fabric and yarn.

The popularity of photo rag dolls has grown in recent years, with many companies offering this service for a fee. Customers can submit a photo of themselves or a loved one, and receive a custom-made rag doll that is both fun and sentimental.

Photo rag dolls make great gifts for special occasions such as birthdays, holidays, and anniversaries. They can also be used as keepsakes, providing a tangible reminder of a special person or moment.

While sales figures for photo rag dolls are not readily available, it is clear that this trend has captured the hearts of many. With the continued popularity of rag dolls and the growing interest in personalized gifts, it is likely that photo rag dolls will remain a popular choice for years to come.

History 

 Rag dolls have been a beloved toy for children worldwide for centuries. These handmade dolls, typically made of scraps of fabric and yarn, have a long and fascinating history. In this blog post, we will explore the evolution of rag dolls from their early origins to the present day, and take a closer look at the top brands and sales figures.

Rag dolls can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Greece, where dolls made from rags, cornhusks, and clay were popular toys for children. In the 18th century, rag dolls became popular in Europe, particularly in England, where they were often made from scraps of old clothes and bits of wool. These dolls were simple in design, with embroidered faces and basic clothing.

Victorian Era  Rag Doll

During the 19th century, rag dolls became more sophisticated, with the addition of hair, facial features, and detailed clothing. The popularity of rag dolls increased in America during the Victorian era, where they were often handmade by mothers and grandmothers for their children.

In the 20th century, rag dolls evolved to reflect changing styles and trends. In the 1920s and 1930s, rag dolls with flapper-style dresses and bobbed hair became popular. In the 1950s and 1960s, rag dolls were often designed to look like popular TV characters, such as Howdy Doody and Raggedy Ann.

Today, rag dolls continue to be a popular toy for children around the world, and there are many top brands that produce high-quality rag dolls. Some of the top brands include:

1. 

   Carolle Rag Doll 

   
   Corolle: Founded in France in 1979, Corolle produces high-quality rag dolls with lifelike facial features and realistic clothing. The brand is known for its attention to detail and has a loyal following among collectors.

2. 

   Kathe Kruse Rag Doll 

   
   Kathe Kruse: Founded in Germany in 1911, Kathe Kruse produces handmade rag dolls using natural materials such as cotton, wool, and silk. The brand is known for its high-quality craftsmanship and has a long-standing reputation for producing some of the best rag dolls in the world.

3. Cuddle + Kind: Founded in Canada in 2014, Cuddle + Kind produces handmade rag dolls using sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing practices. The brand is known for its whimsical designs and donates a portion of its profits to provide meals to children in need.

Sales figures for rag dolls vary depending on the brand and the market, but the toy industry as a whole has seen consistent growth in recent years. According to Statista, global toy sales reached $90.4 billion in 2020, with the United States being the largest toy market in the world.

In conclusion, rag dolls have a long and fascinating history that spans cultures and centuries. From simple designs made from rags to sophisticated, high-quality dolls produced by top brands, the popularity of rag dolls has endured for generations. With the toy industry continuing to see growth, it is clear that rag dolls will remain a beloved toy for children around the world for years to come.

"Diving into the Fascinating Doll History: From American Girl to Barbie and the Woman Behind the Iconic Doll"

 Doll making is a fascinating art form that has been prevalent in various cultures throughout history. In America, doll making has evolved over time, and two of the most well-known dolls in American culture are American Girl and Barbie dolls. In this blog post, we will delve into the history of doll making in America, with a particular focus on American Girl and Barbie dolls.

Early Doll Making in America

The earliest American dolls were made by European immigrants in the late 18th century, and these dolls were often made of cloth or wood. However, the first commercially produced dolls in America were made in the mid-19th century by the German immigrant company, the Schoenhut Piano Company. These dolls were made of wood and were known for their high quality and durability.

The popularity of dolls continued to grow, and in the early 20th century, dolls made of composition (a mixture of sawdust, glue, and other materials) became popular. In the 1950s, dolls made of hard plastic became the norm, and these dolls were produced on a massive scale. One of the most iconic dolls of this era was the Barbie doll, which was introduced by Mattel in 1959.

The Rise of American Girl Dolls

In 1986, Pleasant Rowland, a former schoolteacher, founded the Pleasant Company, which later became known as American Girl. Rowland had noticed that there were few dolls on the market that reflected American history and culture, so she set out to create a line of dolls that did just that.

The American Girl dolls were unique in that they were accompanied by books that told stories about the lives of the dolls and their historical eras. The dolls themselves were made to be high quality and durable, with realistic hair, clothing, and accessories. The first American Girl doll, Kirsten, was introduced in 1986, and the line quickly became popular.

Today, American Girl dolls are still popular, and the line has expanded to include a wide range of dolls, books, and accessories. In 2019, American Girl reported sales of over $500 million.

Lidia's Dolls makes dresses for the American Girl 18" sized dolls. This is a standard size for other similar dolls, like Our Generation and others. The size of the doll is the same as our rag doll, so the dresses we make are interchangeable.

The Enduring Popularity of Barbie Dolls

Barbie dolls have been a cultural icon for over six decades. Created by Ruth Handler, one of the founders of Mattel, the Barbie doll was introduced at the New York Toy Fair in 1959. The doll was an instant success, and by the end of the first year, over 350,000 Barbie dolls had been sold.

Over the years, Barbie has undergone many changes and transformations, reflecting the cultural and societal changes of the time. Today, Barbie is still one of the most popular dolls in the world, with sales of over $1 billion annually.

Biography of Ruth Handler, the inventor of the Barbie doll.

Ruth Handler was born Ruth Mosko on November 4, 1916, in Denver, Colorado. She was the youngest of 10 children born to Polish-Jewish immigrants. Ruth's father died when she was just a child, and her mother struggled to support the family. Despite these challenges, Ruth was a bright and ambitious student and excelled in school.

After graduating from high school, Ruth attended the Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles, where she met her future husband, Elliot Handler. In 1939, Ruth and Elliot, along with their friend Harold "Matt" Matson, founded a small business called Mattel Creations. The company initially produced picture frames, but soon expanded into making dollhouse furniture.

In the 1950s, Ruth and Elliot noticed that their daughter, Barbara, often played with paper dolls and imagined herself in different roles. This observation inspired Ruth to create a three-dimensional doll that could represent different careers and lifestyles. She named the doll after her daughter and called her Barbie.

The Barbie doll was unlike any other doll on the market at the time. She had a slender figure, long blonde hair, and was dressed in fashionable clothing. Ruth believed that the doll could inspire young girls to think about their own futures and aspirations.

The Barbie doll was introduced at the New York Toy Fair in 1959 and was an instant success. The doll quickly became a cultural icon and has remained popular for over six decades. Ruth continued to work for Mattel for many years and became the company's first female executive.

In addition to her work with Mattel, Ruth was also a breast cancer survivor and an advocate for women's health. In 1977, she co-founded the Ruth R. Handler Research Center at the City of Hope National Medical Center in Duarte, California, which focused on breast cancer research and treatment.

Ruth Handler passed away on April 27, 2002, at the age of 85. She left behind a legacy as a trailblazing businesswoman and an innovator in the world of toy design. The Barbie doll continues to be a cultural touchstone and a source of inspiration for generations of children around the world.

Conclusion

Doll making has a rich history in America, and two of the most iconic dolls in American culture are American Girl and Barbie dolls. While both dolls are very different in terms of their design and marketing, they have both endured as cultural touchstones for generations of children. Whether it's the realistic historical storytelling of American Girl dolls or the ever-evolving fashion and pop culture of Barbie dolls, these dolls continue to capture the imagination and inspire creativity in children and adults alike.

To all the doll collectors out there, let me tell you one thing - you are not crazy!

To all the doll collectors out there, let me tell you one thing - you are not crazy! Collecting dolls can be a beautiful way to express your creativity and showcase your personality. In fact, many people find immense joy and comfort in owning dolls, and for some, collecting dolls may even be therapeutic.

Dolls have been a part of our lives since childhood, and they have continued to remain popular across generations. They offer a unique way of connecting with others, creating memories and stories, and even providing a sense of security.

If you're in need of a new doll to add to your collection, let me introduce you to the wonderful world of photo dolls. These dolls are special because they are personalized to feature the face of someone you love, whether it be a family member, a friend, or even yourself! Imagine having a doll that looks just like you or your loved ones - it's like having a mini version of them always with you.

Not only are photo dolls incredibly unique and special, but they're also made with quality materials and attention to detail. Each doll is hand-crafted with care, ensuring that it will stand the test of time and be a cherished item in your collection for years to come.

And let's not forget about the joy that comes with displaying your dolls in a special room or space. Photo dolls will make a beautiful addition to any doll collection, and they'll surely be a conversation-starter among your friends and guests.

So, why not treat yourself (or someone you love) to a beautiful photo doll? Let it be a reminder of the special people in your life and a source of happiness and comfort in your collection. After all, collecting dolls may just be medicine for the soul.

Photo Dolls for Dementia Patients Can Help Them Remember

 

As people age, they often face a variety of health-related issues. One such issue is dementia, which can cause memory loss and confusion. As a result, the elderly often require care and attention from family members, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. In addition to medical care, there are various ways to help people with dementia stay engaged and connected with the world around them. One such way is by using dolls as a form of therapy. An example of such a doll I made for a client features their real face, instead of the doll face.  She looks wonderful and made a patient quite happy. 

Dolls have been used in therapy for many years, and research suggests that they can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dementia. Dolls can be used to provide comfort and familiarity, and can also serve as a reminder of loved ones. This is especially true when the dolls are personalized with photos of the individual's family members or friends.

Lidia's Dolls, for instance, offer the option of customizing dolls with real photos of loved ones. This can help individuals with dementia connect with their memories and relationships, offering them a sense of comfort and support. Dolls can also be used to encourage social interactions, as caregivers and family members can use them to spark conversation and even play.

In addition to their therapeutic benefits, dolls are also practical. They are soft, easy to hold, and can be washed in a washing machine, making them perfect for children to play with as well. Cloth dolls, in particular, are eco-friendly and can be upcycled into many other things, reducing waste and supporting sustainability.

Overall, dolls can be a valuable tool for individuals with dementia, providing comfort, familiarity, and a reminder of loved ones. By incorporating real photos of family members or friends, dolls can help individuals stay connected to their past and present relationships, promoting well-being and quality of life. In addition, dolls are practical and versatile, providing benefits beyond their therapeutic uses. When it comes to caring for individuals with dementia, every tool counts, and dolls are just one of many ways to support their well-being.

Why 18" Rag Dolls are the Best Friend for Your Child

You know what kids love more than anything? Toys! And when it comes to the ultimate toy for children, dolls are a clear winner. But not all dolls are created equal. Especially when it comes to choosing between plastic and rag dolls.

Now, don't get us wrong- plastic dolls have their own charm. They come in different shapes, sizes, and colors. But when it comes to your child's playtime experience, there's nothing quite like an 18" rag doll.

Here's why:

Firstly, rag dolls are washable in the washer machine- and what parent doesn't need a toy that's easy to clean up? Our

Lidia's Dolls rag dolls are made of cotton blends and are super soft to the touch. Imagine it- your child will have the most affectionate cuddle buddy ever! And because they're bouncy, our rag dolls are like mini trampolines for your child's fingers.

Secondly, rag dolls are completely eco-friendly. Unlike plastic dolls that often end up in the ocean or landfill, cloth dolls can be upcycled into so many other things- from cleaning rags to quilting materials. With Lidia's Dolls, you don't have to worry about wastage. And we're proud to announce that our rag dolls can be completely upcycled and remodeled in the future, making them a sustainable choice.

Thirdly, our 18" rag dolls are just the right size for cuddling, comforting, and carrying around. They're about the same size as a baby, so it's like having a new best friend to take care of. They're not harsh like plastic dolls and have skeletons that make them bendable and pose-able.

Additionally, our rag dolls are compatible with other 18" dolls in the market, meaning your child can swap outfits during their "tea parties" and make their rag doll stand out as a unique character.

Lastly, our Lidia's Dolls rag dolls feature your child's face as a cartoon. Imagine the delight and surprise on your child's face when they see a doll that looks just like them- how fun is that! Our rag dolls come personalized with your child's features, making them the ultimate best friend.

In conclusion, if you want to gift your child something unique, special, eco-friendly, and fun, an 18" rag doll is the answer. With their soft texture and personalized features, Lidia's Dolls rag dolls will become your child's favorite playmate in no time. So why wait? Bring home a Lidia's Dolls rag doll today and watch your child light up with joy!

Way to Get Your Kids Offline – Introducing Lidia’s Dolls!

It’s no secret that kids today are spending too much time online. Try as you might, it can be hard to get your kids off the internet and engaged in other activities. But what if there was a way to get them away from their screens that they would actually love? Introducing Lidia’s Dolls custom photo dolls, an innovative way to make sure your children engage with something constructive but still have tons of fun.

What is a Custom Photo Doll?

Lidia’s Dolls custom photo dolls are exactly what their name implies; dolls made with a photograph of your child (or anyone else) printed on fabric. These one-of-a-kind creations feature the photograph of your child printed on the doll, creating a lasting keepsake that will last years to come. Best of all, these dolls are completely safe for small children, made from non-toxic materials and soft fabrics that won't cause any harm if ingested by accident.

Why Your Kids Will Love Them

Custom photo dolls provide parents with unique opportunities for engagement with their children. For example, when you present your child with a custom photo doll featuring his or her own likeness, it creates an instant connection between the child and the doll. Not only do they get to play with something that looks like them but they can also create stories around the doll, furthering their imagination and creativity. Plus, because these dolls are handmade, each one is unique and special which is great for helping kids understand how special they are too.

How They Can Help Get Your Kids Off The Internet

Getting your kids off the internet can be tricky but custom photo dolls can help make it easier! Instead of focusing on what's on the screen in front of them, having a physical object like a doll encourages interaction and gives them something tangible to focus on instead of being glued to a device all day long. Plus, custom photo dolls offer plenty of playtime potential as kids can create entire worlds with their personalized toy - giving them hours upon hours of entertainment away from screens!

But the doll alone won't do it. You need to get on the floor with them and pretend play with the dolls, and sneak in some lessons when you can.  Once the kids realize that doll playing gets them mommy or daddy time, the minute you mention it, they stop watching.  

Conclusion

Custom photo dolls from Lidia’s Dolls provide parents with an innovative way to keep their children engaged in activities away from screens while still having loads of fun! By providing your child with a toy featuring his or her own face printed on it creates an immediate connection between the two while also sparking creativity and imagination - perfect for getting those little ones offline! Why not give Lidia’s Dolls a try today? You won't regret it!

Development of Self-Identity Through Play

Introduction: 

As parents, we all want to give our children the best start in life. One of the most impactful ways to do this is by helping them build healthy self-esteem and confidence. One way to help your child develop a positive and healthy relationship with themselves is by giving them a personalized rag doll with their own face featured on it! Let’s take a look at how this can help.

Development of Self-Identity Through Play

Giving a child a personalized rag doll helps them develop their sense of self-identity. By seeing their own face on the doll, they will learn that they are unique and special. This recognition helps build self-esteem, which carries over into other aspects of life such as school or social interactions. Seeing their own image on the doll also encourages children to form an emotional bond, creating an attachment and sense of comfort when they play with it.

As well as developing an understanding of their own identity, these dolls can help children learn more about diversity and acceptance—they will see that everyone looks different but we all have value. This teaches children empathy and understanding towards others from a young age which is invaluable for later life.

Self Expression Through Role Playing Games

Role playing games are great for not only having fun but also for encouraging creative expression in children! With their personalized dolls, children can create stories and scenarios using characters based on themselves or others around them—this helps them think outside the box and explore ideas without any restrictions or constraints. It’s also great for developing problem solving skills; if something doesn’t work out in one story, then kids can create another solution!

Plus, playing with these dolls gives them an opportunity to practice real life situations such as sharing toys or taking turns in conversations—it’s great preparation for when they begin interacting with other kids socially at school or elsewhere.

Conclusion:  

Personalized rag dolls featuring your child’s face make wonderful gifts that bring joy while providing many developmental benefits! They help build healthy self-esteem through building connections between identity and uniqueness while teaching lessons about diversity and acceptance. Roleplay games also provide endless opportunities for creativity and critical thinking while helping practice social scenarios before venturing out into the real world. With so much potential benefit, why not treat your little one to a personalized rag doll?

Lidia's Dolls Facebook Videos and Reels

Today's Live Video 3/22/2023

Facebook Reel 2/28/2023

How I assemble the dolls

About my shop