Aussie mum launches innovative dolls to help build kids' self confidence through play and creativity

Gold Coast entrepreneur Stella Beckett is redefining what dolls mean for children with her innovative brand, Diary Dolls, a collection of plush companions that go far beyond play to help children build confidence, resilience and self-love.
 

"Dolls are so much more than toys," Diary Dolls founder and CEO, Stella Beckett said.
 

"They can be trusted friends, role models and guides. With Diary Dolls, we've created characters that don't just sit on a shelf, they actively help children develop daily habits that nurture their emotional wellbeing."
 

Each Diary Doll is designed to blend imaginative play with practical, age-appropriate tools for mindfulness and reflection. The flagship products include:

• Affirmation Alice: a plush doll with her own affirmation journal
• Journal Jasmine: a plush doll paired with a daily prompt journal
• Affirmation Bracelets: wearable reminders of positivity
• Daily Practices Board: a family-friendly tool for introducing self-love rituals into daily routines

Building mental health, resilience and self-confidence
 

The benefits of Diary Dolls go well beyond entertainment. At a time when childhood anxiety and low self-esteem are rising, the dolls offer a gentle, playful way to help children strengthen their emotional foundations.
 

By pairing journaling with a plush companion, Diary Dolls encourage children to express their feelings openly and safely, helping them to develop emotional literacy from an early age. The daily affirmations and guided prompts introduce habits that reframe negative thinking patterns, teaching children to shift their focus from self-doubt to self-belief.
 

"Even five minutes a day with Diary Dolls can help children learn powerful life skills," Beckett explained.
 

"They discover how to calm themselves when they're upset, how to celebrate their wins and how to keep trying when things get tough. These are skills that build resilience and carry through to school, friendships, and family life."
 

Parents also benefit, as the dolls provide an easy and engaging way to start important conversations about confidence, kindness, and coping strategies. Over time, these simple rituals lay the groundwork for stronger self-esteem, healthier coping mechanisms and a more positive sense of self.

About Diary Dolls

Diary Dolls is a purpose-led business creating unique toys and tools that blend play with personal development. Founded on the Gold Coast, the brand is steadily growing, with its core range already embraced by families and boutique retailers. The vision for Diary Dolls is to expand beyond its initial dolls into a wider range, including unisex designs, to ensure every child has access to playful tools that build emotional wellbeing.

Website: www.diarydolls.com
Instagram: @diarydolls_