It starts very early when boys are told what they can and cannot do based on their gender. For psychotherapist Laurel Wider, the frustration of stereotypes grew when her son came home from preschool announcing that “boys aren’t supposed to cry.” Wider says the messages little boys are receiving are meant to suppress feelings and emotions, and anything to the contrary is a sign of weakness. “I want to change that. I want to redefine what it means to be strong,” says the mom. Wider got down to work and created, Wonder Crew; a line of dolls for boys. The dolls provide creative playtime as well as developing emotional and social skills, often reserved for girls only. Each doll has a different job or skill like a chef, explorer, and superhero. “Why can’t a superhero, builder or dino explorer also be a nurturer?” asks Wider.
