Dora is Growing Up ... for Better or Worse?

Got an invitation recently to sign a petition asking Mattel to "Stop the Dora Makeover!" Apparently, Mattel is launching a new "tweenage" Dora doll and online "club" for girls who may no longer be interested in the preschool version of Dora the Explorer. 

According to Mattel, parents were asking them to create a Dora character that is more appropriate for older girls. (Of course, they also want to capitalize on the Tween market. Based on the success of Hannah Montana, Barbie and the Bratz dolls, can you blame them?)

Based on a Reuters article and the photo released of the "new and improved" Dora (see above), I think Mattel might be giving moms of little girls just what we needed. Not more Bratz and Hannah Montana craziness ... but a cute character who has lots more going for her than a bunch of eye makeup. She's still smiling, doesn't wear high heels, appears to be sporty and healthy, doesn't appear to have a belly ring and still wears pink (and not all over her face)! Even her jewelry is tastefully simple. 

While I'm a little (okay, a lot) concerned about the high price tag for the new Dora doll (something like $60!) and the fact that the doll hooks up to the computer and gives "alerts" when new online activities are available (and, of course, there will be lots of stuff to go with the expensive doll – sold separately), I'm not that concerned about the new Dora's look. She is not getting a makeover. She's growing up ... just like my little girl is. 

According to Mattel, the new Dora isn't going to spend all of her time texting, shopping and running after boys. She's going to solve mysteries with her girlfriends and will be interested in wildlife, the environment and school. (I don't see any games where girls solve environmental problems on the Hannah Montana website, by the way. And, just take a look at the Bratz Web site. They look like contestants on VH1's Rock of Love.) 

This new Dora seems cute, smart and fashionable. I'm not sure I will be buying the new Dora given the price tag and the fact that, after the whole Webkinz craze, I am sick of toys that do not require an imagination,  just a computer.  However, if there are books or less-expensive "fashion" dolls, I might be interested. 

And, by the way ... Dora the old-school, preschool version isn't going anywhere, so don't worry! The new Dora will be a totally separate line, and she won't have a regular show on TV like the original. You'll only be able to find the new Dora online (and probably under the Christmas tree).