In a groundbreaking move, toy giant Lego has unveiled a new line of characters sporting sunflower lanyards, a widely recognized symbol for hidden disabilities. The Danish company partnered with Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, the organization behind the distinctive badge, to better represent the diversity of the real world in its beloved brick sets.
A Subtle Yet Powerful Symbol
The sunflower lanyard provides a discreet way for individuals to voluntarily share that they have a hidden disability, such as autism, ADHD, or chronic illnesses. Recognized in over 90 countries, the symbol communicates that the wearer might need extra help, understanding, or simply more time in various situations.
By integrating this symbol into its toy sets, Lego aims to raise awareness about hidden disabilities and foster a more inclusive play experience for children. The company’s chief diversity and inclusion officer, Lauren von Stackelberg, emphasized the impact of character choices on how kids perceive the world:
“We hope that modeling a world in which all kinds of people are celebrated will help us all embrace diversity, value inclusivity, and remove stigma.”
Representation Matters
Lego’s sunflower lanyard-wearing characters span various age groups and toy lines, from Duplo sets for preschoolers to the intricate modular builds geared towards adults. This broad representation underscores the company’s commitment to reflecting the experiences of individuals with hidden disabilities across all life stages.
One notable example is Ryan, a university student minifigure in the £90 Friends playset. Donning noise-reducing headphones and a sunflower lanyard, Ryan’s character helps normalize the accommodations and support that some individuals with autism or sensory processing differences may need.
For younger children, the Duplo First Time at the Airport set features a child character with a sunflower lanyard, suitcase, and teddy bear. This set can help toddlers navigate complex emotions and situations associated with air travel, while also introducing the concept of hidden disabilities at an early age.
Breaking Down Barriers
According to Paul White, CEO of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, the partnership with Lego marks a significant step in breaking down barriers and fostering understanding about the wide spectrum of disabilities:
“In the UK, one in five people have some form of disability, and 80% are not visible. That’s over 12 million people. Only 17% are born with a disability; the other 83% acquire one at some stage during their lives … so disability affects us all.”
By showcasing characters with hidden disabilities in everyday settings, like airports and city streets, Lego is helping to normalize these experiences and challenges. The inclusion of the sunflower lanyard serves as a powerful teaching tool, encouraging children to be more aware, empathetic, and accepting of differences they might not immediately see.
A Catalyst for Change
Lego’s move to incorporate hidden disability representation in its toys aligns with a growing trend of inclusivity in the toy industry. In recent years, the company has introduced characters with various skin tones, cultures, and visible disabilities, such as limb differences and Down syndrome.
This commitment to diversity isn’t just a feel-good initiative; it’s a response to changing consumer demands. Lego’s research reveals that about 80% of parents believe today’s children care more about diversity and inclusion than previous generations. Furthermore, 83% of kids expressed a desire to play with toys that teach about differences.
By listening to these voices and taking action, Lego is positioning itself as a catalyst for change in the toy industry. The introduction of sunflower lanyard characters not only provides much-needed representation for those with hidden disabilities but also sparks important conversations about acceptance, understanding, and the power of inclusive play.
Building a More Inclusive Future
As Lego continues to expand its diverse cast of characters, it’s clear that the company recognizes its role in shaping how children understand and navigate the world around them. By normalizing hidden disabilities through play, Lego is laying the foundation for a more inclusive and accepting society.
The partnership with Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is just one example of how toymakers can leverage their influence to drive positive change. As more companies follow suit, we can hope to see a future where every child, regardless of their abilities or challenges, feels represented and valued in the toys they love.
In the end, Lego’s sunflower lanyard initiative is more than just a new line of characters; it’s a powerful statement about the importance of understanding, accepting, and celebrating the diversity that makes our world so beautifully complex. By embracing this message through play, we can all take a step towards building a more inclusive future, one colorful brick at a time.
