5 Reasons Why Your Son Needs This Doll

Psychotherapist and mom Laurel Wider's son came home from preschool one day and announced that “boys aren't supposed to cry.” Instead of these words stopping her in her tracks, they inspired her to create Wonder Crew, dolls are meant to bring boys a new play experience — a play experience whose message has caught up to 2015.

“Research shows that relationships and the ability to connect emotionally are key to happiness, health, and even career success,” Wider said. “Studies also show that toys have the power to influence the way kids see themselves and the world around them. But right now, toys that encourage connection and empathy are only marketed to girls, sending the message to many boys that this kind of play is not for them.”

{ MORE: Gender & Toys: Does It Really Matter? }

Wonder Crew is here to change that.

Wider interviewed 150 parents, kids, educators, psychologists, and toy industry experts and saw the need for action and adventure to meet friendship and teamwork in play targeted at boys. So Wonder Crew is a line of Crewmates — aka dolls — that come friendship and adventure ready.

Here are five reasons why your son needs this doll.

It builds empathy, kindness, and connection.

“Many toys for boys are muscle bound and violent, and none offer a play experience that encourages connection or even friendship … except for that big lovable one in the middle,” Wider said. “That's Will, Wonder Crew's first Crewmate (aka doll).”

It addresses the needs of the whole boy.

“Culturally, boys are taught to be tough and self-reliant, [and] we're finally realizing that this isn't working. Even the NFL has figured it out,” Wider said.

“Boys have feelings. It's time for their toys to catch up.”

It's 100% fun.

“Crewmates combine the adventure of an action figure with the emotional connection of a favorite stuffed animal plus dress-up!” Wider said. “Included with each Crewmate is a child-sized matching piece of adventure gear. When kids suit up alongside their Crewmate, this not only adds to the crew-like vibe, but it also deepens the imaginative play experience.”

Wonder Crew is all about being part of a team — or a crew.

“Our formula is Child + Crewmate = Wonder Crew,” Wider said. “Experiences are richer when shared with a friend, and happiness studies actually prove this!”

Wonder Crew was created by a mom and therapist with lots of direction from her 3-year-old son.

“A big toy company told me dolls for boys would never work in the ‘blue aisle,' ” Wider said. “I intend to enlighten them.”

Check out Wider's Kickstarter Campaign. “At Wonder Crew, kids are encouraged to become the leaders, teachers, problem-solvers, caretakers, and dreamers of their own adventures,” Wider said.

And that is a message we can all get behind.

{ MORE: 4 Tips for Cutting Your Newborn's Fingernails }

Do your boys play with dolls? Will they now?