My son (age 3.5) has always loved playing with dollhouses, sometimes with disastrous consequences. My parents lovingly schlepped my childhood dollhouse over 500 miles so my daughter could play with it, but in the few years since my son has managed not only to break most the furniture but also actually to pee into the dining room more than once.Ah, but Mrs. Goodbee would never allow such treatment! First of all, she (and her furniture and accessories) are made of sturdy plastic, instead of the lighter-than-air balsa wood of my past. And also, Mrs. Goodbee would gently redirect any little boy who treated her or her inhabitants roughly or teetered on the brink of a urinary accident. In her cheerful, Mary-Poppinsy accent she would say something like "Run along to your potty, now, lamb, and then come right back and play with us!"
The Caring Corners Mrs. Goodbee talking dollhouse is a cleverly constructed home that allows several kids to play simultaneously without bumping heads--both its front and back sides have play areas and rooms to access (there are 12 rooms in all). Engineering marvels include flip-down bunk beds, placemats that can rotate from "setting the table" to "ready to eat!" status, and a porch swing that really sways (on the roof, no less!). Aside from Mrs. Goodbee's merry pronouncements, sound effects include a flushing toilet (what kid doesn't love that!), a barking dog, a doorbell, and more.
But what really sets Mrs. Goodbee apart is its (her?!) emphasis on teaching values to kids, with a multi-pronged approach. First, there's Mrs. G. herself, modeling friendly manners and issuing gentle reminders ("One flush is enough!"). Second, the "Good Deeds Garden" on the back of the house functions like a sticker chart. When your child does a good deed or a simple chore, give her a sticker (included) to place in the garden. As an extra bonus, some stickers have secret codes underneath that unlock access to online games and activities designed to reinforce these caring and sharing values. (The house itself, as well as other accessory packs you purchase, also come with codes for online play).
And finally, Learning Curve (Mrs. Goodbee's parent company) has paired up with Goodwill Industries for its "Carton of Caring" program. Kids who receive the dollhouse are encouraged to take its large carton and refill it with gently used toys or clean, outgrown clothes, then donate them at their local Goodwill store. Aside from the pure joy of giving, kids will receive a special certificate of appreciation from Goodwill, which unlocks yet another online activity.
Both of my children, ages 3 and 6, really enjoy playing with this dollhouse. We haven't played online much because I like to hoard my laptop. My only criticism of this toy is that it didn't need to be so girly (in its color palette, for example). Many preschool-age boys like dollhouses too, and they certainly could stand to learn about caring and sharing! (Some of the add-on "family packs" of accessories do have boy or generic themes, like a dad with a toolbox and little boy on a scooter).
Learning Curve has graciously offered me a Mrs. Goodbee Talking Dollhouse to give away to a needy child or charity. In the coming weeks my kids and I will identify a recipient and make a donation, and I'll write a post about our experience. Now that is sharing!
4 comments:
This would be great to donate to a hospital waiting area for children with terminal illnesses, or a Ronald McDonald House common area!
When my good friend's daughter had leukemia, the whole family had to move to another state and live in a Ronald McDonald house where she could get the best treatment. Her 2 brothers were not sick at all, but they had to stay at the house all day with nothing much to do.
Can't wait to hear about the recipient!
This is perfect timing. We were just talking about getting a dollhouse for P for Christmas. We've been half-looking here and there, but the search has ended.
This is too cute!
How very kind of the company to do that and how very lucky you are to present that.
Mrs. Goodbee looks like a perfect kitchen companion.
I recently read about this on another blog and am so excited to get this for my 2 and 4 year olds for Christmas! Your review sealed the deal.
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