Parents of Preschoolers Upset About Dora the Explorer

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

17 Mar 2009 06:48 AM

Although we limit television viewing in our household, I have to admit that there are some shows that make all of our lives easier. For example, if I have a sick preschooler or if I need to keep everyone out of the kitchen for 30 minutes they can do the trick (yes, I feel guilty enough already). Some of the shows that meet our approval include Blues Clues, Sesame Street, Cyber Chase, Between the Lions and Dora the Explorer. My kids have learned some things from watching the shows, and they enjoy them as well.

I don't know if you have heard, but Mattel, the toy company that owns the right to make and distribute any toys related to Dora is coming out with a new Dora doll, one who is much older. Instead of the triangle-hair solid little Dora, this new Dora has long hair and a shapely body, liquid brown come-hither eyes, and a teen's fashion sense.

Many parents of preschoolers are upset about the new Dora. They say that she sexualizes a beloved character, leading children, girls especially, down a road that they are too young to take.

Mattel, on the other hand, says that parents just don't understand. The new Dora is not set to replace the old, but will have her own online adventures aimed at five to eight-year-old children. The new Dora character is ten-years-old, Mattel says.

Here are my thoughts about the controversy.

I've seen a cartoon mock up of the new Dora. She seems pretty tame compared to Mattel's other creation, Barbie. So if you don't have a problem with Barbie, you may not have a problem with the new Dora.

The mock up to me looks much older than what I picture a ten-year-old to be. Perhaps this is because my daughter hasn't yet reached ten. Is ten the new 15 when it comes to girls? So many of my daughter's friends are already into what I call the teenage shows, such as Hannah Montana, which I don't think are age-appropriate for my four-year-old. At a recent clothing sale, I had to toss aside a ton of Hannah Montana and High School Musical clothing complete with short-shorts and halter tops that were sized 4T. But I'm in danger of going off on a tangent here.

People are brand loyal and hate change. Mattel might have done better creating another cousin for Dora rather than making Dora herself grow up.

What do you think?

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here or subscribe to the blog using the subscription box on the right.

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Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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jonesx6 (1606) 17 Mar 2009 08:28 AM

I saw the "new Dora" on Fox News this morning. Wow! I didn't like what I saw at all. This is so frustrating to me. Perhaps if enough parents let Mattel know they will pull the new Dora. Laura

Mary Ann Romans (26881) 18 Mar 2009 10:24 AM

Would you boycott the old Dora because of the new Dora?