Minnesota to Introduce Transgender Dolls in Schools

The US state of Minnesota plans to make paper dolls designed for children aged four to 10 available in schools and other educational and clinical settings. Developed by the University of Minnesota Medical School, the project is intended to help children explore different possibilities of gender identity.

The dolls have gender-neutral names, removable internal and external genitalia and more than 100 items of clothing, hairstyles and accessories. Prototypes were presented at a conference in 2024.

According to The Telegraph, Governor Tim Walz reportedly funded the project. The dolls are to be made available to teachers, school counselors, pediatricians and mental health professionals.

MyGender Dolls describes them as a “first-of-their-kind therapeutic play approach designed for gender diverse children ages 4–10”. According to the company, the dolls are intended to foster resilience, confidence and joy through play.

The project has drawn criticism from conservative groups. Quentin Van Meter, a former president of the conservative American College of Pediatricians, said the dolls “have no place in an ethical medical care world”. He argued that children could become confused and that the approach could contribute to gender dysphoria.

Walz, who is serving his second term as governor and ran unsuccessfully for US vice president in 2024, has long faced criticism over his education and gender policies.

Opponents have questioned whether such teaching aids are appropriate for classrooms and whether parents will be able to opt their children out of activities involving them.

(telegraph, bak)