Yesterday Miss 8 encountered an older lady who told her that playing with dolls was childish and that people would laugh at her. When she recounted the story to me, I was quite angry. I couldn’t believe that someone would discourage such an innocent and imaginative activity, especially one that brings so much joy. It’s important to me that my daughter knows how to respond confidently and understands that there is nothing wrong with loving dolls.
Dolls are not just toys; they are companions, and through them, children explore a world of imagination, creativity, and nurturing. When a child plays with dolls, they create stories, develop empathy, and practise social interactions—all crucial skills that build their confidence and emotional intelligence. There is absolutely nothing “childish” about this; in fact, it’s a wonderful and completely natural way for children to grow.
Nurturing Innocence and Sweetness
Childhood should be a time of innocence and sweetness, and doll play is a beautiful way to nurture this. It allows little girls to engage in a world that is safe, kind, and full of love. In a society where children are often rushed to grow up too soon, holding onto that sense of innocence is something to be cherished.
When my daughter was a baby and toddler, I would place a doll in her hands and teach her how to treat it gently, using the word “sayang” as she learned to stroke the doll’s hair and cradle it in her arms. This simple act was a meaningful way to teach her kindness and gentleness, reinforcing the nurturing instincts that come so naturally to children.
Developing Mothering Skills and Nurturing Maternal Instincts
Doll play provides children with the opportunity to develop mothering skills and nurture their natural instincts. When my daughter cradles her doll, rocks it to sleep, or feeds it during play, she is learning to care for others and understand the needs of a baby. These simple, everyday actions foster a sense of responsibility and tenderness that will benefit her throughout her life. Doll play is a way for children to practise being caregivers, building empathy and compassion in a nurturing environment.
A Family Tradition of Doll Play
In our family, dolls are more than just toys; they are treasures passed down through generations. I played with dolls until I was 12, and I kept my favourites, which Miss 8 now treasures just as much. She dresses them in beautiful outfits her great-grandmother made for me, as well as the gorgeous outfits my mother sewed. I used to sew and crochet dresses for my dolls, and it’s wonderful to see her enjoying these cherished items.
Miss 8’s favourite doll is Kaya, her first doll, who has accompanied her on all her travels. She loves visiting her favourite shop in Sydney, “The Little Shop” at Sydney Hospital along Macquarie Street, where she admires the beautifully handmade knitted dolls on display. She has two prams—one in Singapore and one at her Nana’s home in Sydney—so she can take her dolls on walks around the estate or in her Nana’s suburb. This delightful routine provides her dolls with “fresh air” and keeps her active while caring for them.
Engaging in Real Play, Not Screen Time
Instead of spending her time in front of a screen, my daughter immerses herself in creative and imaginative play with her dolls. Doll play allows her to engage in storytelling, develop her own narratives, and explore her world in a hands-on, active way. It’s a valuable method of interacting with her environment, building confidence, and developing skills that screens simply cannot offer.
Building Practical Skills and Confidence
Doll play also offers endless opportunities for developing practical skills. Soon, Miss 8 will begin learning to sew, just as I did when I was her age, and she’ll be able to make clothes for her dolls. This tradition is something I am excited to pass down to her. It’s not just about creating doll clothes; it’s about building fine motor skills, fostering creativity, and gaining confidence in her abilities.
Responding Confidently to Teasing or Negativity
As children grow, some may move on from playing with dolls and might even tease those who still enjoy it. Similarly, adults may comment that playing with dolls is “childish” or suggest it’s time to move on. I want my daughter to feel confident in standing up for her interests, regardless of what others may say—whether it’s from a child or an adult.
If another child teases her, she could respond with something simple like, “I like my dolls, and that’s what matters to me,” or “Everyone likes different things—this is something I love.” If an adult makes a comment, she could say, “Dolls are special to me, and they make me happy,” or “It’s okay to like different things at any age.” It’s important for her to understand that her interests are valid and that it’s perfectly acceptable to enjoy what she loves, even if others don’t understand or appreciate it.
By teaching our children to respond with kindness and confidence, we help them feel secure in their choices. Supporting their individuality and helping them stand up for what they enjoy fosters strength and self-assuredness. This lesson extends beyond doll play—it encourages children to embrace who they are, no matter what others think.
Embracing Doll Play as a Positive Experience
Dolls offer children the freedom to explore who they are and what they love without judgement. Telling a child that playing with dolls is “childish” or that others will laugh at them only stifles their joy and creativity. Instead, we should encourage them to embrace their play, indulge their imagination, and support their development in every way possible.
Little girls should be allowed to enjoy their childhood without the fear of being judged. Dolls are a significant part of that, helping them build nurturing skills, creativity, and confidence. We must let them play and protect this precious time, knowing that it’s not about childishness—it’s about learning, growing, and exploring all the possibilities of their beautiful, young lives.
Until next time, happy reading and thank you for being part of The Yumcha Mama community!
Did you find my post helpful? If it brought a smile to your face or inspired you in some way, why not treat me to a coffee? Your support means the world to me and helps keep the good vibes flowing! Thank you!
