In Solon, Ohio, a dedicated nonprofit organization, RePlay for Kids, is transforming the landscape of play for children with disabilities. By adapting and modifying toys, they ensure that every child, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy the simple joy of play. With over 22,000 toys modified in 25 years, their mission is to make play accessible and inclusive for all.
Key Takeaways
- RePlay for Kids adapts toys for children with disabilities, making them accessible.
- The organization has modified around 22,000 toys over 25 years, providing them free of charge.
- Families can request multiple toys to see what works best for their child.
- The Cleveland Cavaliers organization supports RePlay for Kids through volunteering and community impact initiatives.
The Mission Behind RePlay For Kids
RePlay for Kids operates out of a workshop where volunteers engage in soldering and tinkering, transforming standard toys into accessible playthings. The organization focuses on children who may lack the fine motor skills necessary to activate traditional toys. By modifying buttons and switches, they create toys that can be activated through various means, such as:
- Sip and Puff Switch: Activated by mouth.
- Head Tilt Switch: Activated by tapping the head against a button.
- Proximity Switch: Activated by a hand passing over it.
These adaptations are crucial for families, as specialized toys can be prohibitively expensive, often costing three to four times more than standard toys. RePlay for Kids provides these modified toys at no cost, working closely with families, clinicians, school districts, and libraries to distribute them effectively.
Real Stories, Real Impact
One of the heartwarming stories comes from Char Gibbs, whose son Drayden enjoys toys like any other 12-year-old. Before receiving adapted toys from RePlay for Kids, Char was unsure if Drayden even liked playing with toys. After receiving a modified toy, she realized that he truly enjoys playtime, which has also aided in his therapy.
Char emphasizes the importance of inclusion, stating, "People with different abilities, different needs, they’re not to be excluded from the world. They do fit; you just have to figure out how. RePlay’s been able to do that for him."
Community Support and Involvement
The mission of RePlay for Kids resonates with many, including board member Michele Kay, who believes every child deserves the opportunity to play. She states, "The fact that a child can’t do something should never be in their mindset. Kids should always think, ‘I can do what I can do, and I will just do my best.’"
The Cleveland Cavaliers organization has also joined forces with RePlay for Kids, with Lucy Veres, the director of community impact, highlighting the importance of uplifting every individual, regardless of their background. Volunteers from the Cavaliers, like Stephen Allison, find joy in making adjustments to toys, ensuring that every child can play with the same toys as their peers.
Get Involved
RePlay for Kids is always looking for support, whether through donations or volunteers. They will be hosting a 5K fundraiser on October 27 in Medina, and their annual toy giveaway is scheduled for November. This initiative not only provides joy to children but also fosters a sense of community and inclusivity.
By adapting toys for children of all abilities, RePlay for Kids is making a significant impact, ensuring that every child can experience the joy of play, regardless of their challenges.
Sources
- Solon charity makes toys accessible for children of all abilities | wkyc.com, WKYC.
- Solon charity makes toys accessible for children of all abilities | wkyc.com, WKYC.
