Accessible Toys Bring Fun & Joy

Coventry families with children who have specialist educational needs and disabilities (SEND) can now have fun with a new range of accessible toys at Ladybug Lodge.

Inspired by her younger sister Rosie (pictured left), who has profound and multiple learning difficulties, Josie Wheel (pictured right) founded Ladybug Lodge to provide an inclusive, joyful play space Rosie would have loved when they were children.

Now families across Coventry with children and young people up to the age of 25 with Special Educational Needs are benefitting from that vision.

And thanks to a pilot scheme launched by Newlife The Charity for Disabled Children, to help grassroot organisations provide accessible play to more children who may otherwise struggle to find the right toys to meet their needs, Ladybug Lodge has been able to purchase larger toys and outdoor equipment.

“Being part of the pilot scheme meant I was like a child with the Argos catalogue,” said Rosie.

“I knew this could help SEN families and it was the perfect chance to purchase bigger equipment such as different swing sets, both for those who are more mobile as well as those who needs something more accessible.

“The pilot scheme meant we could buy lots of different toys – 86 in total – including those teaching cause and effect, vibrating cushions, weighted blankets, musical instruments and even a tickle tunnel, which is amazing and very popular and is accessible for wheelchairs too.”

As well as funding for specialist toys and other equipment, a key element of the pilot was specialist training for staff and volunteers. Now Newlife will be rolling out the Community Play scheme nationwide starting in the East and West Midlands, supported by a transformative £650,000 grant from the Dorothy Pamela Smith CIO, who also funded the pilot scheme.

The initiative aims to ensure disabled children can access sensory-rich, inclusive play experiences that boost development and unlock their full potential.

Families and staff report huge benefits, from new friendships and communication through sensory play, to accessing activities previously out of reach, particularly for wheelchair users and children with complex needs.

There are lots of different ways Ladybug Lodge can use the new toys in the community, providing accessible provision for more families while also giving them the chance to try toys out to see if they might want to buy them for their child at home.

“It’s a way to have fun together that families wouldn’t otherwise have, it’s a way to play with others and have positive interactions,” said Josie.

“Families can just have a nice time without worrying, without asking for help or adjustments. I would have loved this for Rosie and I when we were younger. Growing up there were no activities we could do together.

“Without Newlife we wouldn’t have been able to afford the specialist toys and equipment for Ladybug Lodge, especially all in one go, and this equipment can provide a great experience. Being in the pilot scheme was the stuff of dreams for us.”

For more information visit www.ladybuglodge.co.uk