How to Buy the Right Barbie for Your Child

Think about your child's age, interests and existing collection when selecting a Barbie doll. There are Barbies to match every interest.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Barbie Fashion Designer CD-ROM
• Barbie Riding Club Software
• Barbie Storymaker Software
• Barbie Super Sports Software
• Barbie Accessories
• Barbie Dolls
• Barbie Furniture
• Barbie Houses
• Detective Barbie Software

1. Consider your child's age. There are special Barbies that do not contain small parts and that are made for younger children.
2. Think about your child's interests. Does she like horses, aerobics, sports, playing school, caring for animals, dressing up? Whatever your child's passion or interest, there's a Barbie to match it.
3. Look at what Barbies she already owns. She might have a lot of Barbies, but few Kens and Skippers. She might not have any ethnic Barbies or occupation Barbies. Buy something that she doesn't have.
4. Ask her what she wants. Most girls who own Barbies can rattle off a list of items they have to have.
5. Decide how much you want to spend. You will find Barbies available at just about any price, from $3 into the thousands. Pick a price range you are comfortable with and look for a doll that matches it.
6. Avoid "fake" Barbies. Kids know the difference. That pink box means something to them. It's OK to buy dolls that aren't available as Barbies this way though, such as Baby-Sitter Club characters and other licensed characters.
7. Look at what comes with the Barbies you are considering. Some come with lots of small accessories that will be easily lost unless your child is very careful.
8. Understand that not all Barbies are made alike. Some have traditional bodies, while others, like the ones that dance or do gymnastics or aerobics, are much more movable.
9. Don't forget about the My Size Barbies. These are dolls the size of a 4-year-old that can switch clothes with the child. Some of them dance.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are concerned about the unrealistic body image Barbies portray, consider the Rosie O'Donnell Barbie that has a more accurate size.
• Don't worry if you buy something the child already has. Having "identical twins" can be fun.
• It's possible to custom order a Barbie that will resemble your child. See the "How to Buy a Barbie Look-Alike" eHow on this topic.