Our Generation for a New Generation of Doll Lovers

It goes without saying that when you have a daughter, you're bound to have a few dolls laying around. Without getting into a whole gender stereotype discussion here, while we encourage our LO to play with ALL sorts of toys, she just happens to love dolls. They are her babies and I find them very nurturing and think they have really helped her prepare for becoming a big sister. That said, I also don't think there's anything wrong at all with boys playing with dolls, either.

There are literally thousands of dolls on the market today. If you take a trip to a toy store, it is so easy to become overwhelmed by the babies in the aisles. What makes a "good" doll?

I appreciate a doll that educates as well as offers some entertainment; I'm not saying they need to talk or walk or be battery-operated. Quite the opposite, actually. In my opinion, a good doll will simply encourage imagination and make-believe -- whether that is feeding, potty training, caring, etc.

A few months ago, Isabelle received an Our Generation Doll to test and play with. Our Generation Dolls are Canadian-designed, with each doll having her own story. Our Generation is about girls growing up together, and the accessories speak to the "multifaceted lives girls live". The girls are animal lovers, detectives, campers, charity workers -- they strive for excellence and hope to inspire young girls to make a difference in the world.

It goes without saying that Isabelle was excited with her doll as soon as she saw it. Shannon is an 18" doll who enjoys the "Magic Under the Stars". She comes with her own storybook, and various camping accessories. While she is trendy and cool, her two outfits are anything from frilly or stereotypically girly; Shannon is comfortably cool in her plaid dress and hoodie with cargo pants. She's a modern girl ready for the open air.

There are many reasons to love Our Generation Dolls: they're lifelike and beautiful, but their stories speak volumes to kids and parents alike. Teach your child about volunteering at the animal shelter, or raising money for the local charity, or going on a detective mystery adventure. Awesome lessons for our next generation.

And with so many additional accessories to choose from (see motorcycle above) it's easy and fun to create a whole new world of Our Generation Dolls. After months of having her in our home, Shannon is still one of Isabelle's favourites. She loves putting her in her little tent, dressing and undressing her and taking her for a ride around the room. She treats her like a friend, has discussions with her and one day, when we take her camping, I'm sure Shannon will come along, too!

Our Generation Dolls are priced well, with an outstanding selection of accessories available for each girl. Starting at $29.99. Available at Mastermind Toys.