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How to Buy the Right Barbie for Your Child

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(5 Ratings)

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

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions

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. Step 1

    Consider your child's age. There are special Barbies that do not contain small parts and that are made for younger children.

  2. Step 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. Step 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. Step 4

    Ask her what she wants. Most girls who own Barbies can rattle off a list of items they have to have.

  5. Step 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. Step 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. Step 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. Step 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. Step 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.

Comments  

jenstewart said

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on 7/4/2009 Great information! if you want more information check out www.crazyforbarbie.com or www.crazyforbarbieblog.com

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