Community Corner

The Breastfeeding Doll, Appropriate?

As it's World Breastfeeding Week, we ask Hermosa Beach parents—would you buy your child the controversial breastfeeding doll?

Sunday marks the end of World Breastfeeding Week—an effort to educate mothers about the health benefits of breastfeeding. And one new toy aims to do the same—but with children.

A doll called "The Breast Milk Baby," manufactured by Berjuan Toys company, is already being sold in Europe and might soon arrive in the U.S.

The toy comes with a vest children can wear that features two flowers positioned where a mother's nipples would be. The doll makes a suckling sound when the child brings it to the flowers, simulating breastfeeding. 

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"The Breast Milk Baby has sold millions throughout Europe… We’ve been asked by millions of U.S. women to offer the doll here," said Dennis Lewis, the U.S. representative for Berjuan, in a statement in July.

"The Breast Milk Baby lets young girls imitate mothers in a natural, caring way. Acting just like 'mommy,' girls can learn another natural, nurturing skill about taking care of a baby," he continued.

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But some consumers have rallied against the doll, arguing that it "crosses the line." For example, a Facebook page titled "Ban Breastfeeding Baby Doll" had 164 online supporters as of Friday.

The Breast Milk Baby's Facebook page had 8,850 supporters.

What do you think about the doll—is it something you would buy your children or do you think it’s inappropriate?


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