'A Fighter': Prince William County Child In Running For National Toddler Of The Year

LAKE RIDGE, VA — A toddler from Lake Ridge who has brought joy to his family is getting some national recognition as a contender for the national Toddler of the Year competition.

Jaylen Bradley from Lake Ridge has made the top 10 of Toddler of the Year. The competition is hosted by Colossal, a fundraising website that holds competitions to support causes. The winning toddler will get $25,000, star in a national ad campaign, lead the Hollywood Christmas Parade and win a trip to a Peppa Pig theme park. Donation votes for the competition support Toys for Tots, a U.S. Marine Corps Reserve program providing toys to children in need during the holiday season.

Jaylen and his family live in Lake Ridge, and he attends Word Performance Academy in Dumfries. His family describes him as a "fighter" who was born months early at just four pounds and later survived a drowning. Despite that, Jaylen is an avid swimmer who loves splash pads and dancing in the rain. He also performs scenes from his favorite shows "with the cutest confidence," enjoys time at the park, and shows "faith-filled joy" through smiles and songs, according to his family.

"Jaylen’s joy is contagious. We’re grateful for our community’s support—and that this contest also helps Toys for Tots bring holiday smiles to kids who need it most," said family spokesperson Cathy McReynolds.

The toddler's family is looking to the local community to help get Jaylen votes. According to the family, the prize would help Jaylen and his big brother Keylen continue attending their school to receive faith-based education. The two siblings are living with their single mom.

Voting for the top five of Toddler of the Year will continue until 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 21.