Barbie dolls are an exceptionally popular toy. There have been an incredible three million Barbie dolls sold worldwide and they continue to be immensely popular. But the male Barbie doll, Ken, is only popular with girls. Boys tend to prefer Action Man.
So what is it that makes Action Man so popular with boys and Ken so unpopular? Is it the Action Man name, or maybe the outfits and uniforms or the gadgets and weapons? There aren’t a great selection of accessories for Ken dolls as there are for Action Man Figures. One of the attractions of Action Man is the great range of gadgets and weapons that he can have. And most boys, sadly, love to play with weapons.
Another difference is the dolls themselves. The articulation in Action Man Figures means that they can be made to climb and hang onto pretty much anything. In contrast Ken appears to be something of a softie.
People like to debate whether boys should play with dolls. Traditionally dolls have been the toys given to girls. Boys tend to be given model cars, boats, planes, footballs and weapons. Some parents can become very worried if their young son shows an interest in playing with dolls.
Experts have researched this subject and agree that playing with dolls is good for both boys and girls. It can be very educational, helping children to make sense of the world around them by re-enacting scenes from life.
Many eminent child psychologists agree that play and toys should not be based on gender. Boys should be given the same toys {as girls. as young girls. And girls should be allowed to play with toys that might traditionally be given to boys, footballs, rc cars and even Action Man Figures.
So, dolls for boys can be excellent for their education. The chances are that most boys would prefer an Action Man rather than a Ken doll.