Slowly, she picked just the right outfit for her little doll. Her right hand ran lovingly down the soft fabric of the pink miniature dress. The doll had been a reward for a big milestone she had reached in her young life. Pride shown in her eyes, as her little fingers slipped the ruffled dress onto her gift. My four-year-old daughter hugged her new babydoll tightly. She understandably didn’t want to share it with her twin sister, who had a special new goodie as well.
I remember having similar affection for certain toys in my childhood. One such treasure was my ballerina Barbie. It was the first of many fashion dolls that I would have, but this one held a special spot in my heart. When I was about four years old, my grandmother took me to a toy store and let me choose anything I wanted.
Delighted, and feeling quite grown up, I walked the aisles with her in my search. A pointed toe doll with a sparkly tutu and golden crown captivated me. As a young ballet dancer myself, I felt a connection to this Barbie. Over the years my doll collection grew, but this petite ballerina was always my favorite. Yes, she was lovely, but the knowledge that I chose her was empowering.
Even though I get excited when spotting a toy or doll I think my daughters would love, many times I try to get them involved in the process. I want them to be a part of the choice. Wishing them that wonderful feeling of independence, I let them make the decision on their own.
I hope someday they too will have fond memories of certain toys. But, even more so, I want them to know that they can think for themselves!
