Barbie®, one dad’s viewBarbie®, one dad’s view

Chuck here, with posting number two. Well, it looks like we’re getting going here, and I’m excited about the first few comments from all of you.

Let me touch on a few things raised.

To B. Jasmin and Selena: This question about body proportions comes up often and is one we’re always looking at and dealing with. Actually, if you look at the history of Barbie, she has changed quite a bit over the decades, evolving as cultural tastes and fashions evolve.

Two things that we consider whenever we look at Barbie is both how she looks (is she fashionable, on trend, cool, etc.) as well as what message is she sending. It’s really a delicate balance between the reality and fantasy in this world that is Barbie.

If I look through my daughter’s eyes when she plays with a Barbie doll, it’s all about her imagination and where she can go…it’s not about how the doll looks. I also see how strongly my daughter reacts to the empowered women in our Princess and Fairy movies. To me, the important thing is the way girls think and talk about Barbie, and what she represents to them, that is so strong. It proves to me that Barbie looks very different in the eyes of girls than she does to adults.

Mostly, I’m glad to see you and others jump into this discussion of what Barbie can, could and should be. Please continue. Invite others. And check out the question, “Is Barbie a good role model?” in the forum section of webelieveingirls.com. Lots of good discussion there.

To Mary Pat Nally: Thanks for your passion and commitment in support of healthy girls and women. It’s a passion we both share. We’ll keep your comments, suggestions and offer of help in mind as we move forward, and I’m passing your post along to others here (including our growing panel of experts) who are engaged more directly with activities related to what you’re doing. Keep up the good work. Keep speaking up, and out. It’s your kind of voice that actually will help create a better future for our girls.

To Heidi: I’m thrilled that you and your daughter found us, and am particularly pleased that it was your daughter that brought you here. I’ve been thinking a lot about how we engage the girls themselves and create more opportunities for parents and their girls to share ideas and discuss these important topics. Without, of course, getting too heavy for the kids. I’m glad your daughter liked the short film as well. Having gone to your blog, wow, all I can say is thank you, we hear the challenge, and with your help and the help of everyone who feels the same, maybe, just maybe, we can deliver for girls. Everyone, go check out Heidi’s thoughts at www.iwasthinking.ca, and join in. I’m going to go reread it now and learn a couple things about blogging!

More later, Chuck.