Toys have been around since 2600 BCE, making them around 4,600 years old. Although dolls have stayed one of the most popular types of toys, it wasn’t until fairly recently that dolls, and toys in general, changed.

The first disabled dolls, named “Hal’s Pals,” were first made in 1983. For 14 years it stood alone, but in 1997, Barbie sparked fire in the industry when they released “Share a Smile Becky,” their first disabled doll.

Despite the explosion of inclusion, the fire eventually died. However, in the late 2010s and early 2020s, the world realized that acceptance and inclusion are extremely important and many big name brands such as Barbie and Lego started making inclusive toys.

“It’s about time,” said Corintha Taylor, life skills teacher at Sedro-Woolley High School.
“Toys are people’s first best friends,” said Ellen Hawkins, who also teaches life skills teacher at SWHS.

“Not only are they the first thing that is teaching these kids with play, [they also teach them] connection, human connection. If they don’t have that in another human, it’s pretty important to be able to connect with the toy and to feel loved and included. It’s great, I love it.”

Inclusivity in toys is important for both kids with and without disabilities, says Heidi Nelson, who teaches life skills at Mary Purcell Elementary.

“I do, so that all kids can see themselves in their toys. All kids can see other kids who have other abilities or disabilities in their toys,” said Nelson.
We should expect to see more and more toys with disabilities.