Parenting

Toddler with Down Syndrome Models, Inspires

In a story that went viral earlier this year, 16-month-old Asher Nash was rejected as a client by a Buford, Georgia modeling agency.

Not taking her son’s turn-down lightly, mom Meagan Nash decided to speak out on Facebook, saying that she wanted to raise awareness about kids with special needs and that she had hopes that the clothing company OshKosh B’gosh would consider using Asher.

Meagan also told CBS News that “using people with special needs in mainstream advertising shows the world that they have value and worth, just like every other person does.”

As it turned out, OshKosh B’gosh agreed. They invited her little boy to model for this years’ holiday advertising campaign.

Asher Nash models for OshKosh

Asher has Down syndrome.

Asher’s chance to model thrilled his young mom, and dozens of people have commended the company for featuring the little boy adorably clothed in seasonal outfits.

Asher Nash models for OshKosh

OshKosh B’gosh executives were made aware of Meagan’s social media campaign and were impressed by her efforts to raise awareness about the capabilities of children with disabilities. Customers of the brand have responded positively and are complimentary about the holiday campaign.

Asher Nash models for OshKosh

Many praised the company, expressing sentiments similar to the message one supporter sent: “I have always loved OshKosh, but I love them even more now. That little boy is so precious.”

Meagan is thrilled by Asher’s success, and now more hopeful about the future for her son and other kids like him.

She’s grateful to OshKosh for taking this big step towards changing the public perception of children with Down syndrome and other disabilities. She hopes this is not merely a trend and believes that the company deserves praise and support for recognizing that special needs children have a right to be “treated equally, fairly and with love.”

Since his modeling debut, other opportunities have emerged for Asher to work with brands including Kids II, Oball, Ingenuity, Toys R Us, Safety First, Happy Family Brand, and Num Num.

And so, a tiny star has been born. Hopefully, Asher’s success is a positive step toward universal acceptance of children who face and overcome some extra challenges.

SOURCE


About the author

Vicki

Vicki Clinebell is a former television advertising executive who spent 25+ years with an ABC television affiliate in sales and marketing. A journalism major in college at the University of Colorado/Boulder, she now writes for a variety of online and print publications and provides blog content for clients including retail businesses and artists. The diversity of subject matter appeals to her, whether she’s reporting on the latest trends in baby gear, highlighting stories about outdoor adventures, or explaining basic pet-care tips. Even better, she says, is the shorter work commute… just down the hall, and a dress code that’s changed from suits and heels to jeans and a sweatshirt.

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