A mother who launched an inclusive toy company after her first child was born said that it has been a success. “touched”I am thrilled to see her products used by people who can fondly recall their time with them. “childhood memories”.
Desriee Asomuyide, 29, who is based in Hornchurch, Essex, was inspired to create the inclusive toy company Little Omo after the birth of her son – Isaiah in January 2020, who is now 2.
Desriee Asomuyide (Desriee Asomuyide/PA).
“I was pregnant with my son in 2019 and I was gifted some flashcards that had predominantly white characters on them”During Black History Month (October), she spoke to the PA news agency.
“I kind of thought to myself, how was I going to become a mum for the first time with products that don’t really represent my son.
“I graduated from fashion design quite a few years ago and I thought, why not use the skills that I have in design, sketching and editing to create my brand?”
Ms. Asomuyide poses in front of the products that she has available under her brand ((Desriee Asomuyide/PA).
The company launched in September 2020. Since then, it has expanded its product line from flashcards to puzzles and books to posters.
Ms. Asomuyide created the flashcards beginning in December 2019. They were ready for use by July 2020. “right colours, the inclusivity and diversity was there and that they positively represented her child”.
A puzzle she created recently incorporated people from all walks of life, even those who don’t wear glasses. “head coverings”You may have different skin types.
It’s so heartwarming to know that the next generation will also have these products, and can recall playing with them in their childhood memories.
Desriee Asomuyide
Ms. Asomuyide said that it is “so important” that these items and resources are in children’s homes and educational spaces.
“And it is very important for my son because he can learn not only about Black people, but people of other cultures and traditions as well”She replied,
“I want every child to sit there with a book or toy from my company and say, I can see myself in this.”
Her products have had a positive effect on all generations, including grandparents and parents.
“I think it’s those comments from people from different generations – like my parents and people that are grandparents now – who say they have never had products like these when they were younger – that’s what touches me”She replied,
Ms. Asomuyide with a display showcasing the different products in Little Omo (Desriee Asomuyide/PA).
“And every time someone says, I’m so happy that my child has this because I never had it.
“It touches me so much to hear that the current generation, the next generation will have these products and they can remember playing with them as their childhood memories.”
Ms. Asomuyide said that big toy shops need to make a greater effort to help children. “diversify their range of children’s products”.
“Because it’s really important for every child to see themselves as being beautiful”She replied,
“And that is done through them seeing products that look like them.”