Voodoo pencil case 'condones bullying'

A children's advocacy group has criticised a pencil case shaped like a voodoo doll, which it says condones bullying.

The canvas Smiggle case, which is available in Australia, includes a space to put a small photo.

Sold alongside the pencil case are black and red heart-shaped pins ready to stick into the body-shaped case.

Julie Gale, the director of the Australian children's advocacy Kids Free 2B Kids, said the case was an example of companies producing items without thinking about the consequences.

Ms Gale said various childhood experts were horrified by the product, which they thought could encourage bullying.

"It's basically a voodoo doll, and it's potentially a very powerful tool for bullies," she told Melbourne's Herald Sun newspaper.

Ms Gale has also raised concern about another product in the Smiggle range encouraging children to "Hug a Stranger".

"While it might seem innocuous, it goes against the messages our children are taught for their well-being and safety," she said.