#27: Growing Up Skipper
The Growing Up Skipper doll, released by Mattel in the early 1970s, was a unique toy designed to illustrate the concept of growing older to young kids. By twisting the doll’s arm, it would seemingly grow taller and develop a bust. The doll was discontinued due to concerns over its appropriateness and potential impact on children’s perceptions of puberty and body development.
Critics argued that the doll’s feature, which implied that a girl’s body changes could be manipulated at will, was not only inaccurate but also conveyed unrealistic and potentially harmful messages about body image and maturity. As a result, Mattel decided to discontinue the Growing Up Skipper doll, reflecting the growing awareness of the need for responsible and age-appropriate toy design in the evolving landscape of children’s playthings.