Get your imaginative kids to incorporate pretend doll play, specifically with American Girl dolls, with technology, art, and writing -- a STEAM activity -- by making a stop motion movie of your dolls. Here's how. . . STEAM Play with American Girl Dolls First, make a plan and write a script. (The A in STEAM.) JJ, my 12-year old, LOVES her American Girl dolls. She wanted to showcase two specific … [Read more...]
WellieWishers Easy Chapter Books & Dolls from American Girl
American Girl recently launched WellieWishers, early chapter books and a line of adorable 14 1/2-inch dolls (retail $60) all featuring wellies (rain boots.) My kids and I think the wellie boots are super cute -- as are the dolls themselves. (Which, of course, you can order to own and wear yourself.) The WellieWishers chapter books are lovely -- sweet, nature- and friendship- oriented. Buy … [Read more...]
Child-like Lottie Dolls Empower Imaginative Play
If you're wanting an alternative to Barbie or Bratz, look no further than the cute, little 7.5" Lottie dolls because Lottie dolls are made to look like 9-year old children. None have questionable clothes or mature figures anywhere! (LOVE it!) My daughters love their Lottie dolls. Maybe that's why Lottie has won 21 international awards since launching in August 2012. These sweet dolls encourage … [Read more...]
Journey to the 50s with New American Girl, Maryellen
Journey back in time to 1954 with Maryellen, an American Girl in the BeForever line and learn to make a doll painting, too. First, play with the adorable Maryellen doll and read her three historical fiction chapter books -- we highly recommend them. Then, follow along as I show you how to take a photo of your Maryellen doll and turn it into a painting! A DIY doll painting that will look great for … [Read more...]
Christmas Gifts for Kids That Spark Imagination
This year I'm looking to buy Christmas gifts for my kids that spark their imaginations. Gifts that encourage creativity and pretend play. Gifts like these . . . Christmas Gifts for Kids . . . That Spark Imagination 1. Samantha’s Starter Collection - Doll and Book Samantha Parkington is BACK! She's kind, generous, and always ready to make a new friend. She has sparkling brown eyes that open … [Read more...]
DIY Paper Dolls
Our talented ten year old neighbor, Gia, is the best mother's and babysitter! She brings toys and thinks of new activities to do with my four year old while I'm working or teaching. Last week, after writing class, I wandered over to the dining room table to see what they'd been doing. I found them playing with a homemade paper doll and doll outfits. The girls were pretending, imagining, and … [Read more...]