Disability inclusion in The story of Tracy Beaker

As you all know I am am a massive Dumping ground fan, and the inclusion is just fantastic. 

I have been writing this blog in instalments for the past month maybe more. I knew I had a lot to say but I then realized there was so much more to say & so much more I could say. 

starting at the beginning, in the story of Tracy Beaker, we are introduced to Layla

who despite having cerebral palsy Is a keen scout, even in one episode going off to a scout camp. Although small, innocent & sweet-looking she can also be quite the scammer setting up a business to make money & trying to cheat her way to gaining more scout badges than deserved. 

Nothing is mentioned about Layla's condition & as far as I remember none brings it up throughout the entire show. Other than there being the odd one-off comment about physiotherapy. 

This has to be one of the main things I admire and love about the Tracyverse whatever struggles you may have, anything that might affect you in any way isn't completely blown out of proportion or turned into a massive deal.

Moving on as we venture later into The story of Tracy Beaker, Millie arrives. We are briefed on how Millie acts slightly differently from most children but a name isn't placed upon her condition. Everyone is keen to become friends with Millie but then the residents create a big drama over the fact she does not speak & shies away as anyone tried to get near or make contact. 

Stories get formulated of how she's some sort of witch/sorcerer controlling them all. It Is just Roxy playing a prank, but this episode was a really interesting one because it was able to highlight the lack of understanding around disability especially amongst children when seeing it for the first time. 

Millie soon finds comfort in dressing up enthusiast Marco who helps her find a voice through pretend play. 

Towards the end of the show, Millie along with best friend Marco both get fostered by eccentric couple Mr & Mrs Baxter. 

I hope you enjoyed my findings on disability inclusion in the story of Tracy Beaker. In order to do this, I also watched a few of the characters main episodes back to make sure it seemed as accurate as possible. 

Episodes I watched include: 

*Series 3 episode 10: Be prepared 

*Series 5 episode 2:Free piggy 

*Series 5 episode 3:Scary Millie.