Sometimes Barbie just doesn’t cut it.
The Facebook campaign Toy Like Me began as a group of parents with disabled children doing their own ‘toy makeovers’, in a call for better representation and diversity in the toy box.
Barbies were given hearing aids, Baby Borns were fitted out with NG tubes, Duplo characters got seeing eye dogs and even teddy bears received tummy tubes in a bid to highlight the need for toys that catered to children who didn’t fit the generic plastic mould.
Now, toy maker Makies has joined the party – and instead of just accessorising dolls, they’re offering a completely customised figurine to match any child.
Makies already offers an online customisation process that allows the buyer to choose the sex, skin colour, hair colour, eye colour, face shape and clothing of their doll. Soon, however, they’ll release a line of accessories catering to the disabled community, including hearing aids, canes and wheelchairs. They’ve even created a prototype doll with a facial birthmark.
It’s no surprise that many parents of children with disabilities are thrilled at the news – and the suggestions for alterations are pouring in.
“Would be cool to see a diabetic doll with an insulin pump and a CGM,” one mother wrote on the “Toy Like Me” Facebook page.
“Would be great to see a doll with a scar on the chest for children who have heart surgery (like my daughter),” said another.
Check out some of the inspirational toy makeovers from ‘Toy Like Me’.
As for concerns over the cost of the dolls, which retail for $115 each, opinions are divided. But for some parents, the opportunity for their child to see themselves represented in a doll is priceless.
“I will happily pay $115 for a doll with Down Syndrome!” One happy parent gushed.
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Would you love to see a toy with a specific disability? Would you pay $115 for a Makies doll?
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Top Comments
You should check out Hear Like Me on Etsy
It makes me so happy that more and more companies are coming out with toys, specifically action figures and dolls, that are wearing a variety of hearing aids. It sends that we even though we are different, we are also people and we shouldn't be ashamed of our disabilities. I try to teach my kids that every single day.
If you are looking for a toy that can help your child with a hearing problem, check this out: http://www.hearlink.com.au/...