Graphic designer Nickolay Lamm made waves when he created a realistically-proportioned doll last year to combat the unhealthy body standards promoted by Barbie dolls. Now he’s released an extension pack for the doll that explores one of the most realistic female experiences: menstruation.
The doll, called “Lammily,” was first released in the fall of 2014. Now the Lammily doll has “Period Party” and “Lammily Marks” extension packs, which allow young girls to learn about menstrual cycles, acne, scarring and blemishes.
Lamm says that he hopes the Period Party accessories (which include 18 reusable colored pads and liners stickers, a pair of underwear, a pamphlet and a calendar) will encourage open conversations about women’s periods. “I just don’t think that something as core to a woman’s life and health as menstruation should be seen as embarrassing in any way, shape or form,” Lamm told Mashable in an email.
“I’ve read horror stories of kids thinking that they were dying during their first period. Parents are also wary of approaching this subject,” Lamm said. “So I feel Lammily’s ‘Period Party’ can introduce kids to menstruation in a very fun and disarming way, and give parents a very useful tool.”
While some parents are not so keen on the idea, others wish the doll had been available to them during their own adolescence. “Some moms have told me that it would have lifted a huge burden at the time that they were kids,” said Lamm.
The Lammily dolls retail at $25, and the accessory packs cost between $7-$10.
