“Tinkered Toy Box” Rebuilds Adaptive Toys for Children with Disabilities

The Washtenaw Intermediate School District hosted area tinkerers interested in giving back to their community for the annual Tinkered Toy Box on Saturday, October 19, 2024. The Tinkered Toy Box is a collaboration between the Washtenaw Intermediate School District (WISD) and Mott Children’s Hospital, with funding generously provided by Dance Marathon at the University of Michigan. Each year, the program teaches local residents how to modify toys with switches, so they are more accessible for children with disabilities. Those modified toys are then donated to families in Washtenaw County. 

“We’re excited to share that this year’s Tinkered Toy Box will provide toys adapted for 54 local children with special needs,” shared Jamie Mayo, Assistive and Instructional Technology Coordinator at the WISD. Mayo co-founded the program and has been organizing the event since it started in 2019. “Every child should feel like their toys are just right for them, including and especially kids with disabilities.”

Toys modified with switches can disguise learning with fun. Learning how to use switches is an essential skill for many individuals with disabilities. The switch-adapted toys help children develop their fine motor skills such as hand-eye coordination. “Switches open up a whole world for people with disabilities,” continued Mayo. “They can help with everyday tasks like using technology, improve communication with others, and so much more. They help build independence.”

“We are always so grateful to our community for their generous and continued support,” says Mayo. “Critical support comes in many forms, from modifying the toys to donating funds or toys from our Amazon Wishlist.” 

To learn more about the Tinkered Toy Box, click here.