The Importance of Diversity in Toys

Studies have shown that play is how children process their environment and their relationship with the world.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, It is through play that children at a very early age engage and interact in the world around them. Play allows children to create and explore a world they can master, conquering their fears while practicing adult roles, sometimes in conjunction with other children or adult caregivers.

Consequently, when children of color play with toys that do not represent them it leaves the impression that something is wrong with them. Toys and play allow the child to develop social awareness, self esteem and leadership skills as well as learn compassion and social values.

So, if the child doesn’t see themselves represented in the media or within the toy and literature industry, they may get the wrong idea and believe they are not worthy.

Mamie and Kenneth Clark, the African-American psychologist couple who administered the famous “Doll Experiments” which was the classic 1940s study that interviewed children about two identical dolls -one Black and one White. They were asked about the positive and negative attributes of each doll and even the Black Children chose the white doll as having positive traits. This experiment has been done countless times since its introduction.

Below you will find the video for your review.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkpUyB2xgTM&feature=youtu.be

Therefore, kids will be more engaged when they see their likenesses in toys, literature, television, magazines, and the media in general. It will boost their self esteem and tell them
that yes “we see you and you are important.”