Miniland has partnered with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) in honor of Down Syndrome Awareness Month this month. The company is known for its inclusivity-focused dolls, including its dolls with Down syndrome. Miniland has partnered with the NDSS previously for sponsorship of the annual NYC Buddy Walk as well as donations and fundraisers.
This month, Miniland is actively sharing resources and content from the NDSS, as well as hosting giveaways on its Instagram. The company will also highlight a new child with Down syndrome each week, showcasing motivational messages and personal stories from families.
Just last year, Miniland launched a series of dolls with hearing implants and glasses. The company is devoted to creating dolls that reflect all kids. With initiatives such as the “You Belong with Miniland” campaign, Miniland hopes to encourage acceptance in today’s youth.
The incredible success of our dolls with Down syndrome demonstrates to children the importance of respect and acceptance, through the best learning tool available: play.
The NDSS, originally founded in 1979, is an organization focused on the empowerment of individuals with Down syndrome as well as their families through initiatives that aim to change policy, provide resources, engage with the public, and more. “Changing the way people see individuals with Down syndrome is a key aspect of what we do at NDSS,” says NDSS President and CEO Kandi Pickard.
“Creating toys that are beneficial to all children, regardless of who they are, where they’ve come from, what they look like, is at the core of what we do as a brand,” says Roque. “It makes it possible for children to know they are noticed, valued, and accepted, just as they are. For many children, our dolls have given them the first opportunity they’ve had to play with a doll that looks like them. We hope to continue to encourage self-acceptance and belonging for generations to come.”
