Dolls Are For Boys Too

This morning, Little Sir went down the stairs holding two precious dolls – Baby Sophie, his sister’s oldest doll, and Tom, his own little bear.

He then declared, “Pretend I’m Papa.”

I was instantly reminded of Charlotte Zolotow’s 1972 classic “William’s Doll,” which is about a boy who wants a doll. He is repeatedly dissuaded, teased, and even bullied by family and friends. His father gives him a basketball and a train set to take his mind off his “unusual” request. But still, William continues to ask for a doll.

I love how the story ends. His grandmother finally gives William a doll of his own, saying that he will use it to practice being a good father.

So yes, dolls are for boys too. Seeing my son hug two dolls together the way his dad carries him and his big sister down the stairs just warms my heart. I can see that he is getting practice on how to be a loving and caring human being from the best model that he could ever have – his dad.