Does a Breast-Feeding Doll Go Too Far? Weigh In!
A new toy that mimics breast-feeding has caused an uproar among some parents.
March 29, 2011— -- A new doll that mimics the act of breast-feeding has some parents up in arms.
The Breast Milk Baby doll, sold through Berjuan Toys for $89, allows children to imitate the act of breast-feeding by using a special halter top that comes with the toy.
The halter top is made from a colorful material with two flowers positioned where nipples would be. When the mouth of the doll is brought close to a sensor embedded in the flower, the baby makes motions and sounds consistent with suckling.
Critics say the doll is over-sexualizing young girls or forcing girls to grow up too quickly. The company and those in support of the doll say it's teaching young girls about a natural part of motherhood.
"The Breast Milk Baby lets young girls express their love and affection in the most natural way possible, just like mommy," Berjuan Toys said in a news release. "The Breast Milk Baby represents a revolution in design by teaching children the nurturing skills they'll need to raise their own healthy babies."
In Spain, a breast-feeding doll called the Bebe Gloton, also made by Spain's Berjuan Toys, has been sold since 2009.