Submitted by Sensory Tool House
Sensory Tool House, LLC, in Lacey is the only store in Washington that supports those who are neurodivergent and/or disabled. We are partnering with Olympia and North Thurston High Schools’ robotics teams and Lacey MakerSpace for a toy adaptation event ahead of the winter holidays. The aim is to create adapted toys or items for community members to gift to loved ones who could benefit from the adaptations (ex: switch buttons, enlarged knobs, added vibration or flashing lights, etc.). Olympia Orthopaedic Associates has made a generous donation to cover the expense of the adaptation materials.
Adaptations give access to items that would otherwise be inaccessible. For instance, switch buttons can be installed to assist with the operation of battery-operated toys for those who would otherwise not be able to enjoy a common toy on the market. Puzzles that don’t have large knobs can have them added. Flashing lights or vibration can be added to assist with location or operation of an item. Keyboards and mice can be adapted for inclusive operation. This opportunity provides a wide range of individualized support and adaptations. All organizations involved are volunteering their time and funding for this event.
Not only does this event support our community, but it is also an extraordinary STEAM learning opportunity for students. The students, with help from Lacey MakerSpace teachers and staff, will create all the adaptations in a two-day event in November called the Adapt-a-Toy Hackathon, working in shifts.
We are so excited to offer this event to the community and hope it will be well utilized. It is important that our community knows about this event to access this free-to-them opportunity.
How it works:
- Items can be dropped off at Sensory Tool House starting the week of October 24, Tuesday – Saturday between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.
- A registration form will be completed at drop off to ensure that the item is adapted as needed and returned to the owner.
- Item adaptation will take place November 19 and 20 at the Lacey MakerSpace.
- Items can then be picked up at Sensory Tool House, LLC November 22, 23, 26 or the following week, November 29 – December 3 between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Andrew Woodbridge, robotics teacher at Olympia High School, came up with this idea and with the support of the community it is happening. For more information, please contact Lauren Howard, Director of Resources, at Sensory Tool House, LLC.
