A switch adapted toy is a battery-operated toy or device that has been modified so its original controls can be operated through a larger, external switch. This adaptation bypasses the toy’s built-in activation method, redirecting control to an external switch that is easier for individuals with limited fine and gross motor skills to use. Switch adapted toys are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of children and adults who have motor disabilities, such as cerebral palsy. Regular toys often have switches that are small, difficult to press, or require precise movements and strength, making them challenging for these individuals. By using accessible buttons, adapted toys simplify interactions and allow children to independently experience the joy of play. Additionally, using these adapted toys helps individuals learn about cause-and-effect relationships and environmental control, significantly broadening their opportunities for play and social engagement.

Play is essential for children’s growth, influencing their motor, social-emotional, and cognitive development. However, many traditional toys and activities are challenging or inaccessible for children with complex medical conditions or motor skill limitations. Switch-adapted toys address this barrier by simplifying interactions with electronic toys, thereby expanding play opportunities for children with disabilities. By using specially designed external switches, these toys empower children with motor challenges to engage independently in play. This independence builds confidence, encourages proactive exploration, and fosters a sense of accomplishment.

Switch-adapted toys are also excellent tools for teaching cause-and-effect relationships, helping children clearly understand that their actions can directly influence their environment. This fundamental concept encourages further exploration and learning. Moreover, using switches can significantly enhance children’s motor development, hand-eye coordination, visual targeting, muscle strength, and overall motor control. Play itself becomes a motivating factor, inspiring children to engage in challenging physical activities essential for operating switches and other assistive devices.

Additionally, these toys play a vital role in supporting communication and social interaction skills. By enabling children with disabilities to participate in play alongside their peers, siblings, and caregivers, switch-adapted toys help foster social connections and provide common ground for relationship-building. The early use of switches can also prepare children who may benefit from Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, as many communication tools utilize similar switch technology.

Switch-adapted toys further stimulate cognitive development by encouraging problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking skills as children interact with and control their environment. Therapists, including occupational therapists, physical therapists, and early intervention specialists, frequently integrate these adapted toys into therapy sessions to make skill practice engaging and enjoyable. At home, caregivers can use them to reinforce therapy goals effectively, improving adherence and outcomes.

In summary, switch-adapted toys are invaluable because they remove barriers to play, support key developmental areas, foster independence and confidence, and provide therapeutic and sensory benefits. By allowing children with disabilities to participate meaningfully in play, these toys help ensure they have opportunities to learn and grow alongside their peers.

Switch-adapted toys can also play an important role in helping children transition to other adaptive technologies. They introduce children and caregivers to assistive technology (AT) devices, demonstrating their potential for increasing independence and interaction. Playing with these adapted toys helps children grasp the fundamental concept of cause and effect, where an action—such as pressing a switch—produces a predictable and motivating response. Understanding cause and effect is foundational for effectively using many other AT devices. Additionally, using switches regularly through play supports the development of essential motor skills, including, hand-eye coordination, visual targeting, muscle strength, and control. As children gain competence and confidence in switch operation during play, they become better prepared to use switches for other adaptive technologies.

Moreover, switch-adapted toys can provide children their first meaningful experience of independent control over their environment. This newfound independence fosters confidence and encourages a proactive attitude toward trying and mastering additional assistive technologies. Importantly, switch toys can be instrumental in introducing children to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices. AAC systems frequently use switches to enable communication for children with limited or no verbal skills. Early experience with switch-adapted toys helps children acquire the motor skills and understanding required for effective AAC use, potentially leading to enhanced communication abilities. Furthermore, because play is inherently motivating, switch-adapted toys encourage children to engage persistently in challenging motor tasks. Overall, switch-adapted toys serve as an accessible and playful entry point into the broader world of assistive technology, laying a solid foundation for lifelong learning and independence.

Generally, most battery-operated toys can be adapted to work with external switches, allowing children with disabilities to use them more easily. The adaptation process typically involves rerouting the toy’s built-in controls to a larger, external switch. A simpler method involves interrupting the battery connection, which restricts the toy to basic ON/OFF functions, while a more interactive approach requires disassembling the toy and soldering wires from internal switch points directly to an external switch.

Several characteristics make certain toys ideal for switch adaptation. First and foremost, the toy must be battery-operated, as this is essential for rerouting internal circuits or power sources. Toys that perform simple, clearly defined actions or have a limited number of separate functions activated by individual buttons are typically easier to adapt. Toys whose internal switch points are readily accessible and straightforward to solder—such as buttons on toy feet or handles—are preferred, while those with complex or hard-to-access switches may be more challenging.

Additionally, toys with engaging sensory feedback such as lights, sounds, music, or movements are excellent choices, as they clearly demonstrate cause and effect, reinforcing the child’s interaction. Examples include musical toys, bubble machines, or toys that light up and spin. Remote-controlled toys with distinct control buttons (e.g., direction or speed) also lend themselves well to adaptation by modifying their remotes. Furthermore, toys that can be easily taken apart without damaging them—particularly those not heavily glued—are practically easier to adapt.

However, certain toys present greater challenges or are less ideal for adaptation. Toys with multi-function or complex switches that control several functions simultaneously can be difficult to adapt reliably. Similarly, toys with activation points printed directly onto circuit boards pose soldering challenges, creating connections that may be weak and prone to dislodging. Toys that are heavily glued or otherwise difficult to disassemble are generally not recommended, since easy internal access is critical for adaptation.

Beyond technical considerations, selecting an appropriate switch-adapted toy also requires careful attention to the child’s unique needs. Cognitive level is important, as adapted toys should provide developmentally suitable challenges without causing frustration. The toys chosen should encourage problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking skills, helping the child understand fundamental concepts like cause and effect.

Finally, it is essential to consider a child’s sensory sensitivities when selecting toys. For instance, toys with rapidly flashing lights might trigger seizures in children with photosensitive epilepsy or cause discomfort for those sensitive to intense visual stimuli, and therefore should be chosen carefully or avoided.

In summary, good candidates for switch adaptation include battery-operated toys with straightforward and clear activation methods, engaging sensory outputs, and accessible internal components. Ultimately, the ideal adapted toy balances technical feasibility with consideration of the child’s cognitive abilities, age appropriateness, developmental goals, and sensory needs.

Switched Adapted Toys is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to making play accessible for children of all abilities. Our nonprofit status is closely tied to our core mission: empowering children with disabilities by providing them with resources and adapted toys that help them play, learn, and grow independently. To achieve this, we create and share free educational resources—including detailed how-to videos and downloadable files (such as designs for 3D-printable switch buttons)—to help families, educators, and therapists adapt toys on their own.

In addition, we regularly organize volunteer build days, bringing community members together to adapt toys for children who need them. Every year, especially around the holidays, with help from our community  donate hundreds of adapted toys free of charge to families who otherwise might not have access. We also actively support local “Switched Chapters,” community groups that adapt and distribute toys within their neighborhoods, significantly broadening our impact.

Our status as a nonprofit organization allows us to accept donations, grants, and community support to sustain these efforts, ensuring that our resources and adapted toys remain completely free for those who need them. Being a nonprofit keeps our focus solely on this charitable mission rather than on generating profit. What began as a small side project officially became Switched Adapted Toys, a nonprofit organization, in 2024—allowing us to expand our reach and help even more children experience the joy and benefits of play.

A Switch Chapter is a local community initiative focused on making play accessible to children with disabilities. These chapters are typically formed by passionate individuals or community groups committed to expanding access to adapted toys within their local area. Members of Switch Chapters primarily adapt battery-operated toys on a larger scale, modifying them so they can be easily activated by external switches, which makes play possible for children with disabilities.

The adapted toys and resources created by these chapters are provided free of charge to families within their communities, aligning closely with our overall mission at Switched Adapted Toys. While each Switch Chapter operates independently, we actively support them by providing guidance, training, and resources throughout the entire process of organizing, adapting, and distributing toys.

One example of a successful Switch Chapter is our local chapter in Columbia, where we are based. This chapter partners annually with Pascal’s Pals, another local nonprofit that donates between 100 and 300 toys each year. During community volunteer events, individuals learn how to adapt these donated toys using our resources and guidance. After adaptation, the toys are distributed for free, often during special events around the holiday season. This collaboration has become a meaningful way to serve local families and support children with disabilities.

In essence, Switch Chapters help extend the mission of Switched Adapted Toys into local communities, empowering people to adapt and distribute toys to children in need. If you’re interested in starting or finding a Switch Chapter near you, please visit our website for more information.

You can start a Switch Chapter as a local community effort dedicated to making play accessible for children with disabilities. Switch Chapters are started by individuals or groups who are passionate about adapting toys on a larger scale to serve kids in their own communities.

While each chapter operates independently, we at Switched Adapted Toys are here to support you every step of the way. We’ll help guide you through the process of organizing your chapter, adapting toys, and providing resources so you can give adapted toys to families at no cost. Our goal is to help you make a lasting impact right in your own community.

If you’d like to learn more about starting a Switch Chapter and how we can help you get started, visit our website at www.switchedtoys.org and check out the information on our Switch Chapters page. We’d love to help you bring this mission to your community.

If you’re interested in making your own switch buttons at home, here’s what you’ll need to 3D print and assemble them yourself.

First, you’ll need the 3D model files for the switch button you want to print. These files, usually in STL format, are available for free on our website at www.switchtoys.org. We offer designs for several styles, including our Version 2 Standard, Version 2 Mini, and Mega Switch. Each design typically has separate files for the different parts, such as the base and top. For the Mega Switch, you’ll also find files for the base, ring, and top. Along with the files, we provide recommendations for print settings to help you get the best results.

Next, you’ll need access to a 3D printer and slicing software. The slicing software converts the 3D model into printer instructions. Some of the recommended settings include a 0.16 mm layer height, 15% infill with a grid pattern, and the use of supports—especially tree supports for parts like the button top. PLA filament is commonly used because it’s affordable and biodegradable. You’ll also want to adjust your seam placement settings to help hide the print seam for a cleaner finish.

Inside the button, you’ll need a mechanical keyboard switch to act as the activation mechanism. We recommend the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch because it requires very little pressure to activate, making it easier for most users. These switches are easy to find online and often come in multi-packs. For larger buttons like the Mega Switch, you might use multiple switches for support, but you typically only need to wire the center one.

To connect your button to an adapted toy, you’ll need a 3.5mm mono headphone jack cable. We recommend a mono cable because it has just two wires, making the wiring process simpler. You can also use a stereo cable, but you’ll need to combine two of the wires to convert it to mono. Many people buy a 6-foot cable and cut it in half to make two shorter cables.

You’ll also need some basic tools and materials for assembly, including a soldering iron and solder to connect the wires to the switch. Wire strippers will help you remove the outer casing from the cable. CA glue or super glue, along with activator spray, helps secure the cable in place to prevent it from pulling out. Other helpful tools include snips or cutters, tweezers for positioning wires, and a small screwdriver for pressing the wire into place. A makeshift holder, like a block of wood with a clothespin, can make soldering easier by holding parts steady while you work.

By putting all these parts together—your 3D printed pieces, mechanical switch, cable, and assembly tools—you can build your own working switch button. This DIY approach can save you money compared to buying commercial switches. However, if you’d prefer not to make one yourself, we also offer pre-assembled switches for purchase in our shop. Either way, we’re here to help make switch access more affordable and accessible for everyone.

At Switched Adapted Toys, we utilize Bambu Lab 3D printers for producing our switch-adapted toy components. Bambu Lab offers a range of printers at various price points, all capable of printing our provided files. Notably, our files include a .3mf format compatible with Bambu Studio, Bambu Lab’s slicing software, which automatically loads the recommended settings, simplifying the printing process.

However, it’s important to note that the Bambu Lab A1 Mini, with a build volume of 180 x 180 x 180 mm, cannot accommodate the Mega Switch due to its size constraints. For printing larger components like the Mega Switch, we recommend considering models with a larger build volume, such as the Bambu Lab A1 or P1S. 

While we are not sponsored by Bambu Lab, we’ve found their printers to be reliable and user-friendly for our purposes. For more information on their products, you can visit their official website.

At Switched Adapted Toys, we provide free resources like 3D model files and how-to manuals to help individuals and community groups adapt toys for children with disabilities. However, it’s important to understand that these resources are not licensed for commercial use. All of our digital files and manuals are clearly marked as “Personal Use Only – No Redistribution or Commercial Use.” This means they are provided to help individuals, families, and non-profit groups make adapted toys for personal, educational, or therapeutic use—not for resale or profit.

You are not permitted to sell the digital files, printed copies, or any physical items made from our 3D models or manuals. You also may not share, post, rehost, or distribute the files or any versions of them, including modified versions. Additionally, you cannot use these files or anything produced from them for commercial purposes, including fundraising, without receiving written permission from us first.

What you can do is download and use these files to print and assemble switch buttons for yourself, your family, or for a child in your care. You are welcome to use the files to create adapted toys for personal use, education, or therapy. Community groups like our Switch Chapters also use these resources to adapt toys and give them away for free to families in their communities, which fully aligns with our mission.

As a nonprofit organization, our mission is to make play accessible for children of all abilities. We support that mission by providing free resources and selling 3D-printed switches and adapted toys through our website and online store. Proceeds from these sales help fund our ongoing work and keep our resources free for those who need them.

In short, we encourage personal and community use of our resources to benefit children with disabilities—but commercial use, resale, or redistribution is not allowed without our prior written permission. This helps us protect our mission and continue offering free resources to families, educators, and therapists who rely on them.

One of the most impactful ways to help is by making a financial donation. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we rely on donations to continue creating and sharing free resources with families, therapists, and educators. Your support allows us to keep offering these resources at no cost to anyone who needs them. You can make a donation directly through our website. Make a donation!

Another great way to support our mission is by purchasing products from our shop. We offer a variety of 3D-printed adaptive solutions, including custom switch buttons, along with pre-adapted toys. Every purchase you make through our website or Etsy shop helps fund the creation of more free resources and supports our work to make play accessible for all children. Visit our shop!

Using our Amazon affiliate links is another easy way to support our work—at no extra cost to you. You can find links to the tools, materials, and supplies we recommend for toy adapting on our website. When you use these links to make a purchase on Amazon, we receive a small commission. These earnings go directly toward supporting our mission and help us continue offering free resources to families and communities. Amazon Links!

Finally, you can support us by engaging with our online content. Liking and sharing our videos on YouTube, subscribing to our channel, and spreading the word about what we do helps us reach more people who may benefit from our mission. Youtube Channel!

No matter how you choose to get involved, your support helps us make sure every child has access to the joy of play—regardless of their abilities.

If you’re looking to start adapting toys, we offer several ways to help you get started. First, we encourage you to explore the free resources available on our website. Our Resource Hub is packed with helpful tools, including our Video Library, which features step-by-step how-to videos showing you exactly how to adapt specific toys. These videos walk you through the entire process, from finding the right connection points to securing your wiring. You’ll also find our Free File Library, where you can download 3D print files for making your own switch buttons and PDF manuals with detailed written instructions. Some toys even have manuals available if a video isn’t posted yet.

For more personalized support, you can join us during our Virtual Office Hours, where you have the opportunity to ask questions and get direct guidance from our team. This is a great way to get extra help if you’re feeling stuck or just want a little more confidence before getting started. Sign up!

Makers Making Change is a program that connects individuals with disabilities to volunteer makers who can build affordable assistive technologies.  Their mission is to empower people with disabilities by providing access to customized, low-cost assistive devices through a collaborative network of makers, engineers, students, and disability professionals. 

HuskyADAPT (Accessible Design and Play Technology) is a student-led organization at the University of Washington dedicated to promoting accessible design and inclusive play technology. Their mission is to foster an inclusive, sustainable, and multidisciplinary community that supports the development of accessible design and play technology.

RePlay for Kids is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Northeast Ohio, dedicated to increasing the availability of toys and assistive devices for children with disabilities. Founded in 1999, the organization began as a volunteer effort to repair broken toys for local agencies. Over time, it evolved into a comprehensive program that repairs, adapts, and distributes toys and assistive devices free of charge to children in need.