Many parents strive to ensure that our children are kept safe and secure. When we expose them to the world, we want to make sure that they are protected from inappropriate conversations, people, and things. This can be difficult when the inappropriate item in question is a toy that was made for children.
That is exactly what is happening right now as parents speak out on social media over popular LOL Surprise Dolls.
Earlier this month, a mom went viral online after discovering that a Hasbro doll had a button that was placed in an "inappropriate" spot for young children. The video went viral across social media.
The Poppy doll featured a button in between Poppy's legs that kids would push for her to sing, giggle, and make any noise. While the company said the button was intended to work when the doll was in a sitting position, parents were concerned that this was "grooming" children to enjoy being touched inappropriately.
There have been renewed concerns from parents online who are outspoken about child trafficking and grooming. Many have even spoken out about the influence of this problem in society in realms like politics and the media.
Moms across social media are now talking about LOL Surprise Dolls. LOL Surprise Dolls are small dolls that have unique features. They come with clothes, accessories, and some even have hidden features.
The "surprise" aspect of their name comes from the fact that you have to unbox the dolls to see which one you'll get. Parents don't know which doll they are getting until they open the package.
To continue gaining popularity, the LOL Surprise Doll makers included unique and interesting features for the dolls so that kids would want to continue buying them. Some of these newer features are causing a commotion with parents.
Parents reported that there were "symbols" that appeared on the dolls arms and back. Some of the dolls even had "clothing" appear that looked a lot like lingerie.
The Instagram video posted online showed two different dolls. The first one had symbols appear down her arm and a pizza symbol on her back. The mom assumed it had to do with the viral "pizzagate" scandal in politics.
Hilary Williams grabbed her daughter's LOL Surprise Dolls and a bucket of cold water to see what would happen when she submerged them. Sure enough, the dolls developed designs including a black, strappy swimsuit and "tattoos" that featured a devil's tail.
Moms discovered soon that many of the dolls begin to develop heavy makeup, fishnet stockings, and other lingerie items when they are dipped in water. Many are concerned that these are inappropriate styles for young children.
Some parents are saying it's, "grooming young girls to want to wear this kind of clothing." The majority of the concerns express that the doll's outfits are too racy and mature for young children.
"We acknowledge the recent feedback received and thank you for bringing it to our attention. We have implemented comprehensive corrective measures to our design and approval process while ensuring the essence of the brand is kept intact," a spokesperson said.
In the meantime, outraged parents are continuing to express concern through social media. Two Change.org petitions demanding the dolls be removed from stores have also been started.
