Cartoon Inclusion

I receive many suggestions on blog topics, so I’ve decided to start giving kudos to the people that provide me with them. Today’s topic comes from my co-worker, Donna.

As you all know, I’m always searching for stories of inclusion. Nothing makes me happier than learning of a new cartoon that brings awareness.

A cartoon is a great avenue to teach children at a young age about disability awareness. Cartoons, which are generally created for children, is when he or she begins taking things in and forming their own opinions.

One of my favorite cartoons growing up was the Smurfs. Now that I think about it, I guess the Smurfs were teaching children to accept people who were different because they were blue. I so wanted to be the girl Smurf, Smurfette, for she had so much attitude which still makes me chuckle to this day.

As times have changed, so has the cartoon industry. They are now opening doors and promoting disability inclusion.

HBO Max has become one of the first entities who has jumped on board by creating a new animated series. The new series is called Hop.

Characters With Disabilities At Center Of New TV Show – Disability Scoop.

By the name of the new series, you have probably figured out the new cartoon is about a frog named Hop. Hop is not only a cool frog, but he has a disability; one of his legs being longer than the other.

Hop also has a friend on the show named Filipa! Filipa is a cool squirrel who doesn’t like being around loud noise or big crowds.  Filipa is like many children who do not receive an early childhood assessment. If Filipa had been assessed, the assessment would have probably helped detect that Filipa had autism.

Another cool thing about this new cartoon is the voice of Hop.  Hop is narrated by David Connolly. David is a Broadway performer who is also the first amputee to perform. Talk about full disability inclusion all around, I just love it!

According to Hop’s creator, the series was created because disabilities are under-represented in the media, and it was time for that to change.

Growing up with a disability, especially when you are child-age, can be difficult. To be accepted by your peers and make friends is what kids really want.

The series will help kids to understand that disabilities are just a part of life, and it shouldn’t be feared or have you feel ashamed.

I predict the cartoon series will be a great success. I know I’ll be watching! Thanks, HBO Max, for promoting disability inclusion.