In a recent experience, a young boy’s reaction to a Target advertisement underscored the significance of representation in media. When Mia Thompson and her six-year-old son, Ben, visited Target for their typical dollar bin exploration and a coffee, they stumbled upon a Cat & Jack advertisement in the children’s clothing department. The ad featured a boy similar in age to Ben, who uses a walker due to his cerebral palsy. This moment was so impactful that they returned to Target three times in a week to see the ad again.
Mia shared their experience on a parenting platform, expressing how she witnessed her son light up with joy. Ben began clapping, laughing, and signing for “more” as he spotted the advertisement. “I saw Ben’s face—his recognition of someone like him was genuinely beautiful,” Mia recounted. “I couldn’t help but shed a few tears, and others in the store shared in that moment of connection.”
The pair’s visits were driven by Ben’s excitement; he even added a “Target” button to his communication device. “Seeing a child around my son’s age, wearing a cool hoodie and using a walker, was incredibly meaningful to both of us,” Mia explained. “For the first time, he saw his reality reflected on a larger scale. It was a powerful reminder that inclusion matters.”
Mia, who has authored a book titled “Unbound” about her experiences in motherhood, articulated how crucial it is for children like Ben to see themselves represented. “I dedicate so much time and energy ensuring Ben feels included in various settings,” she said. “This advertisement brought a wave of relief, showing that, at least in this context, he belongs.”
She highlighted the importance of depicting diversity in advertisements, noting, “I’ve seen similar representations before, but never with such widespread visibility. I hope this is the start of a trend that embraces all children, including those with disabilities, and reflects the world we live in.”
Mia concluded by expressing her hope that one day such representations will be commonplace rather than surprising. “It would be wonderful if seeing kids in wheelchairs or with hearing aids became an everyday sight,” she remarked.
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In summary, Mia and Ben’s experience at Target serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusion in advertising. Their story highlights how representation can foster joy, connection, and normalization for children with disabilities.