The Facts
Chou Chou dolls---the name comes from a French nickname that means "darling" or "sweetheart"---are European dolls that have become popular in the United States. Chou Chou dolls have soft, flexible bodies and realistically depicted plastic faces. They are designed to be comfortable to hold and carry, making them a good choice for role-playing activities. Chou Chou dolls make sounds or gestures to show needs, such as being hungry or needing a diaper change, teaching children how to be caring and responsible.
Manufacturer
Chou Chou dolls are made by Zapf Creation, a German toy manufacturer who also makes Baby Anabelle and Baby Born dolls. In Europe, Zapf has the leading market share for its particular toys, enjoying 79.5 percent of the market in Great Britain and 53.1 percent in Germany, where it is headquartered.
Types
There are several different types of Chou Chou dolls. All of the Chou Chou dolls are very interactive and respond to a child's activities.
Chou Chou My First Tooth teaches children how to care for a fussy baby. When Chou Chou's teething, her cheeks turn pink and she cries. Children can comfort her with a cold drink and pacifier.
Giggling Chou Chou responds by laughing when a child tickles her under her arms.
Chou Chou Mummy Make Me Better cries because she is sick. A child can take her temperature, listen to her heartbeat and give her medicine to help her feel better and laugh again.
Accessories
Chou Chou dolls have numerous outfits and accessories available for separate purchase. You can purchase a bed, diapers, bottles, pacifiers and a diaper bag for Chou Chou, as well as several changes of clothes.
Safety
Some Chou Chou dolls come with small accessories, making them inappropriate for children younger than 3 years old.