University of Minnesota Taxpayer-Funded Program Develops Transgender Dolls for Children Ages 4–10

A University of Minnesota project has developed dolls with interchangeable genitalia and accessories for use with children as young as 4, raising new questions about taxpayer-supported gender initiatives and age-appropriate education.

Known as MyGenderDolls, the products are expected to become available to clinicians and educators beginning this fall, according to reporting by The College Fix. The project’s website states that the dolls were created for “gender diverse children ages 4–10.”

The dolls include removable anatomical parts, clothing, and other accessories. Developers say the design allows children to explore different combinations of bodies and gender identities.

In a University of Minnesota Foundation article that has since been removed, postdoctoral fellow Ben Parchem said the dolls were intended to show children “all the different options that exist for who they can be — regardless of their body parts.”

The project emerged from research conducted through the University of Minnesota Medical School’s Department of Family Medicine and Community Health. Faculty members Dianne Berg and G. Nic Rider were among those involved in its development.

A now-deleted 2024 university summary described the dolls as therapeutic tools modeled after traditional paper dolls. According to that description, children could select bodies, genitalia, clothing, and accessories to visualize their anatomy and gender.

Berg previously said the project sought to help children reject the belief that their anatomy determines whether they are a “real” boy or girl. Supporters characterize the dolls as tools for reducing shame and helping gender-diverse children communicate.

The project received developmental support through the University of Minnesota’s Early Innovation Fund. It also comes amid broader state support for gender-affirming policies under Democratic Gov. Tim Walz.

In 2023, the university’s Institute for Sexual and Gender Health honored Walz with its Distinguished Sexual and Gender Health Champion Award, citing his support for reproductive and gender-affirming healthcare. Rider, a MyGenderDolls co-creator, participated in presenting the award.

For Christian parents and other concerned Minnesotans, the project is likely to intensify debate over parental notification, biological reality, taxpayer accountability, and whether gender-identity materials belong in settings serving children as young as preschool age.

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