Handicapable Dolls

Here's something that I came across and it's a rather intriguing website about homemade dolls matched with various conditions such as a blind doll, Down Syndrome doll, cochlear implant doll, hearing aid doll, missing limbs and various other conditions at the request of parents of children with that same condition. Note the name of the website is "Handicapable Dolls" with the focus on "capable" and not "handicap." Think of it as saying "handy capable" dolls and not pronounced first as "handicap."  

 If it's "sewable" it's doable.

From the website:
"Here's a doll with a cochlear implant. The "hearing aid" (also known as the "microphone") is connected with velcro for easy removal, the "transmitter" (round part) is attached with a magnet so it can also be removed and the "battery pack" fits into a pocket sewn on the back of the doll garmet. All pieces are attached to each other with a cord. Parts are made from clay and fabric."

Pictures below  are examples of a "Hearing Aid" doll.

From the website: "This handsome dude has a Latino skin tone, dark brown eyes and black boy hair. He wears hearing aids in both ears, which are permanently sewn in place so they won't get lost. See the picture below for a look at one of his hearing aids from the side."

I think this is great. For kids to have dolls that they can relate to provides a sense of reassurance and acceptance.