I’m so happy because one of my fondest wishes is coming true, toy inclusion.
For the last ten years or so, I’ve been blogging on how I wish there were more toys representing disability. It’s been a long time coming, but little by little, my dream is finally coming true.
Since I last reported, there have been toys representing the disability community like dolls and other accessible equipment; but now, I’m happy to report that Hot Wheels has joined this group.
Thinking back when I was young, my older brothers, Mark and Jay, had many Hot Wheels. They loved playing with them on the floor making makeshift ramps for them to jump over. Although, I had plenty of dolls, I was always intrigued with their Hot Wheels because my brothers had so much fun playing with them.
Again, I never seen Hot Wheels representing people who use wheelchairs and I had given up hope of seeing one, until now.
Five-time Motocross Wheelchair Champion and Paralympic athlete, Aaron “Wheels” Fotheringham, is known for his fancy wheelchair tricks. Matter fact, he’s so popular that he caught the attention of the Hot Wheels company.
The company, Hot Wheels, wanted to design a remote-control Hot Wheel wheelchair patented after Aaron. They wanted this for the children to play with and to also share disability inclusion with the world. Aaron was overjoyed for he had never seen a toy represent his disability. Aaron was also excited for he knew others who use wheelchairs and that they would hopefully feel the same.
Just like Hot Wheels, Barbie is doing her thing too. I’ve been very impressed with the toy maker of Mattel, Inc. Over the past ten years, Mattel Inc. has created many Barbies representing various disabilities and I’m happy to report they’ve done it again.
There’s now a new Barbie on the market rocking a bright, pink, hearing aid. The new Barbie is representing people who are hard of hearing.
I believe the new Barbie will make a big splash with kids all over the world spreading awareness of unique disabilities.
I know I keep bringing up this subject, but I know toy inclusion is very necessary. Toys not only teach children the art of play, but it also teaches them about the world. Children naturally have hearts of acceptance and the younger they learn about people’s differences, the better.
I think I may buy my great great nieces and nephews these toys for Christmas. Who knows, I may get myself one of each too!
Love love love this!