One segment that toy companies have ignored is children with disabilities. Parents in the UK started a social campaign that called on toy companies to create dolls with disabilities that children with disabilities can relate to. Their campaign used the hashtag #ToyLikeMe and thousands of parents shared photos, comments, and ideas of how toy companies can better meet the needs of their children.
One company, Makie, listened to what parents were asking for and designed the world’s first line of dolls with disabilities. The dolls are 3-D printed and this allows future dolls to be made on demand based on requests from their customers.
Children with disabilities usually have to modify their toys to better relate to them. Parents in the UK want to change this.
Facebook / ToysLikeMe
The parents started a social campaign called #ToyLikeMe to bring awareness and get better disability representation from toy companies.
Facebook / ToysLikeMe
Thousands of parents have uploaded photos, comments, and ideas for toy companies to provide toys that their children can relate to.
One UK toy company, Makies, has heard these parents and released the first line of dolls with disabilities.
Facebook / ToysLikeMe
Their first line includes a doll with a cane, another doll with a hearing aid, and a doll with a facial birthmark.
Recently, Playmobil UK is also listening and releasing their own line of play figures with disabilities.
Facebook / ToysLikeMe
H/t: The Daily Dot
This is a great example of individuals coming together and creating positive change. I’m sure more toy companies will join the #ToyLikeMe revolution. Please share new toys Makie and Playmobil are creating for children with disabilities with your friends and family.
