Guatemalan Worry Dolls

History of worry dolls

According to the tradition of the Mayans from the Guatemalan highlands, when children are scared or have nightmares, adults give them worry dolls before they go to sleep. Children put them under their pillow, and when they wake up, their worries are gone.

Supplies Needed:

• Popsicle Stick
• Two strands of yarn
• Tape
• Marker

Directions:

1. Wrap the string around the popsicle stick. This will be the body of your doll. Use the tape to hold the string in place. You can create bottoms by winding different string around the lower part of the popsicle stick. Leave space at the top of the stick for a face.
   
2. When you have clothed your doll, use markers to create a face or hair.
   

Conclusion

Many cultures have ways to help children with nightmares, including bed time stories or lullabies. Guatemalan worry dolls are an example of how parents help their children sleep at night. They have been used for generations. What is your family’s tradition?