What are inclusion dolls or "Diversity Dolls"?

Inclusion dolls represent the diversity of society and strive to reflect a wide variety of skin tones, cultures, body types and gender identities. Many inclusion dolls also have physical functional variations, such as dolls with diabetes , dolls lacking hair , dolls with glasses or other aids. There may also be dolls with invisible functional variations such as autism and ADHD . These dolls give children the opportunity to understand that all people, regardless of ability, have equal value.

We tend to say that these dolls are more than ordinary dolls because they can be used as tools to help children develop empathy, understanding and acceptance for all the people around them.

Why are inclusion dolls important?

Self-esteem and representation
For children who belong to minorities or who have functional variations, it is often difficult to find toys that reflect their reality. Inclusion dolls give these children an opportunity to see themselves represented, which is important for their self-esteem and sense of belonging.

Empathy and understanding
When children play with dolls that look different, they develop an understanding that people can have different circumstances but are still equally valuable. It can also help reduce prejudice and increase empathy, which is an important part of children's social and emotional development.


How can you use inclusion dolls in everyday life?

Parents, educators and other adults can use inclusion dolls to talk to children about diversity and inclusion in a natural and playful way. This can involve letting children play freely with dolls that have different backgrounds, or asking questions that encourage reflection: "Why do you think this doll has a wheelchair?" or "What do you think this doll likes to do in her spare time?". Through these conversations, children can learn that differences are not only something we should accept, but also something we can celebrate and appreciate.