Toys and play are an essential part of childhood, and it’s important for all children to feel included and represented. Kids with disabilities need to be able to see themselves in the toys they play with so that they can feel accepted, valued, and seen.
Inclusion and representation of all these kids can be achieved in a variety of ways. For example, toys can be designed with sensory input in mind, such as different textures, colors, and shapes. This helps to ensure that all children can engage with the toy in a meaningful way. Additionally, toys can be designed with accessibility in mind, so that children with physical impairments can easily use them.
Another way to promote inclusion and representation of kids with disabilities is through characters in books, movies, and television shows. Representation of people with disabilities in these media can help to normalize and destigmatize them. It also helps to show kids with disabilities that they are capable, valued members of society. This visibility can help to remove the stigma that disabled children are somehow “other.”
In conclusion, the representation and inclusion of kids with disabilities through toys and play is essential for creating a society that values and respects the rights of all children. Toys that are designed with accessibility and sensory input in mind, characters that represent people with disabilities in media, and the visibility of toys for disabled children in stores and online, are all important steps to create a world that is more inclusive of kids with different types of abilities.
Antiochou-Plexida Konstantina, SLP
