Company Creates “Special Needs” Dolls
Sew DollingTM, LLC, East Greenwich, Rhode Island, has launched a
line of unique vinyl dolls used in play therapy that celebrate the differences
and challenges of special needs children. The company said the limited-edition
Sew Able Dolls include nine with above-the-knee or below-the-knee amputations
and three dolls without hair.
Several years in the making, the dolls were produced and designed to look as
real and natural as possible. "We believe the expense put into the doll is well
worth it if it can help even one child, through play therapy, feel accepted,"
said Susan Svendsen, owner of Sew Dolling. "This is also a great way to help
other children who have friends, classmates, or siblings with disabilities
understand that we are all different, special and unique!"
The dolls with prosthetic legs have been specially fitted and include a pair
of crutches. The dolls can stand with crutches and also can be positioned to
stand without. A full line of physical therapy accessories is available,
including wheelchairs, parallel bars, mats and therapy balls, allowing the
child's doll to progress along with its owner. The dolls without hair come with
a wig and a bandana, slouch hat or baseball cap.
"Play therapy is extremely important to help children build their sense of
self worth," adds Svendsen. "A child may long to meet or play with others who
look like they do, but this is not always possible. These dolls are offered as a
supplement to help a special needs child in their journey."
The company said the limited-edition dolls have small production runs with
some limited to just 172 in the edition and a portion of each sale is donated to
hospitals that help special needs children. For information, visit Sew Dolling
on the web at www.sew-dolling.com
