How does disability awareness fir with toy companies? It’s been an argument which has been raging for many years between disabled people and toy companies. There’s very little in the way of representation of disabilities in the toy industry.
However, at the end of January, toy giant Lego revealed a brand new set of figures which included a wheelchair bound character. This, after years of criticism regarding the diversity of their figures. The focus wasn’t heavily set on this new addition. But it made the new set even more popular with the disabled. Some have been waiting for the day that disabilities began to get represented in the toy industry.
So, why is this character’s inclusion in Lego’s new figure set so revolutionary?
Representing Disabilities to a Wider Audience
It’s been rare that disabilities have been represented in the toy industry. If they have been included, it’s usually been in a relatively vague way. Such as a walking stick for elderly characters, bandages and crutches, for example. Even eye-patches which are usually associated with a pirate!
There are over 150 million children worldwide who have a disability, with 770,000 of them living in the UK. It’s incredibly difficult to find toys for a disabled child that represents their disability in a positive way which makes them feel included in society.
Although the introduction of this young, wheelchair bound Lego figure may seem small, it’s a big step forward. Especially for an industry who has previously made a habit of either ignoring disabilities altogether or misrepresenting them in some way.
As able-bodied individuals, it is extremely hard to imagine a world being surrounded by images and toys of able-bodied people.
A Bright, Toy Filled Future
While raising awareness of young people with disabilities wasn’t the main aim of the new Lego set, it’s hard not to get excited that more young children will be introduced to a toy which includes a disabled character.
No fuss was created by Lego themselves during the release. In fact, the simple set up of the new set had the character in the wheelchair seemingly enjoying himself at the park with his friends; a normal situation that anyone can experience, disabled or not!
As providers and installers of curved stairlifts for individuals of all ages, we think that this is a great step forward for disability recognition. Not just in the toy industry, but the younger generations as a whole.
There is no age limit on disability. So if you or a member of your family are looking for a helpful, reliable stairlift for your home, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Feel free to call us today on 0800 046 3438. We’ll will be happy to assist you with your enquiries.