Following the news that its dolls have been nominated for a 2022 Toy of the Year (TOTY) Award, Miniland USA, is launching Together We Play, an initiative focused on encouraging acceptance among kids. Joining the initiative are partners like the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) and retailer For Kids By Kids (FKBK).
“Together We Play is meant to easily communicate to young children that whoever they are, whatever they look like, they are seen and valued,” says Clara Roque, North America sales manager, Miniland USA. “It is crucial for young children to feel like they belong among the other children in their age group, especially at a young age and stage of development. In just one action, play can non-verbally communicate so many impactful messages like ‘you’re welcome here’, ‘I see you’, ‘you belong here’. Inclusive play further reassures children that not only do they have a place in this world, but they should feel encouraged to accept and respect other children who may not look or act like they do.”
Miniland is using the hashtag #TogetherWePlay to host giveaways of their diverse Dolls with Down Syndrome all while sharing tips with parents on how to encourage inclusivity, and raising donations in support of the NDSS. Miniland and FKBK will also be donating 100% of the proceeds of Miniland’s Dolls with Down syndrome sold from Aug. 29 to Sept. 2 to NDSS. In further support of the NDSS, Miniland will join fellow sponsors at the annual NYC Buddy Walk on Sept.17, with a pledge to make additional donations in October to commemorate Down Syndrome Awareness Month.
