toys | Health News Florida

Quinn Byrne, 5 left, shops with her mother, Jamie Byrne, at a Learning Express store in Lake Zurich, Ill., Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023. While still in its early phase, a growing number of toy marketers are embracing MESH — or mental, emotional and social health — as a designation for toys that teach kids skills like how to adjust to new challenges, resolve conflict, advocate for themselves, or solve problems.

Amid a mental health crisis, toy industry takes on a new role: building resilience

Associated Press

A number of toy marketers are embracing MESH — mental, emotional and social health — as a designation for toys that teach skills like how to adjust to challenges, resolve conflict, self-advocate or solve problems,

Mattel Inc. announced a new Barbie doll with Down syndrome. It was created to give more children an opportunity to see themselves in Barbie, the company said.

Health News Florida

Mattel unveils a Barbie with Down syndrome

Jaclyn Diaz

The company has been moving to diversify its doll collection. It has so far made other Barbie and Ken dolls with wheelchairs, vitiligo, hearing aids, and prosthetic limbs.

UNF mechanical engineering student Kristian Sipos works on a car for a young child with disabilities.

Health News Florida

For Kids With Disabilities, University of North Florida 'Adaptive Toys' Can Be Life Changers

Jessica Palombo

The holidays are coming early for some Jacksonville children with disabilities. On Friday evening, they’re getting special vehicles and toys modified...