Empathy Dolls are soft, weighted dolls designed to feel like real babies, encouraging emotional connection and nurturing behaviour. Supported by Garry Mitchell’s research on doll therapy in dementia care, these dolls have been shown to reduce distress and enhance social interactions in individuals with dementia. For children, Empathy Dolls help build empathy, improve social skills, and provide a comforting companion.
Doll therapy is an activity used internationally to help people with all types of dementia maintain a sense of well-being or alleviate episodes of distress. Doll therapy can take many forms, such as a person with dementia holding, talking to, cuddling, or hugging the doll, feeding the doll, or dressing the doll.
Doll therapy provides a range of benefits for both individuals with dementia and children, helping to foster emotional connection and comfort. Empirical research has shown that doll therapy can lead to:
– Aromas and Fragrances
Pleasant scents in the dolls promote relaxation, provide reassurance, and evoke positive memories, creating a calming environment.
– Calming Heartbeat
A gentle heartbeat feature helps to soothe, offering a sense of security and fostering emotional attachment.
– Facial Features and Eyes
Realistic facial features and expressive eyes encourage empathy and nurturing behaviour, helping to establish an emotional bond.
– Flexible and Soft Bodies
Soft, flexible bodies allow for natural movement, enabling the dolls to sit, lie, and “walk,” which supports interactive play.
– Gender Characteristics
Distinct gender features help children explore their own identity and develop a positive self-image, while also promoting understanding and empathy towards others.
Find out more about Empathy Dolls in our PDF brochure!
*All prices are ex VAT, including UK delivery.
