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UID:30754-1760623200-1760626800@www.neilsquire.ca
SUMMARY:MMC NYC Metro Chapter: 3D Designing Custom Keyguards for AAC Access
DESCRIPTION:Join Gemma White and Ken Hackbarth for a virtual workshop where participants will learn how design their own highly customizable keyguard files using the Volksswitch Keyguard Customizer system. The generated files can then be 3D printed or lasercut; offering a low cost and highly accessible option for AAC users and their caregivers. \nKeyguards are physical overlays placed on top of keyboards or communication devices to help individuals with motor control difficulties accurately select keys by preventing accidental key presses. They support access to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) by providing a stable\, guided surface that enhances precision\, thereby enabling users to communicate more effectively. An AAC app is a software application designed to assist people with speech or language impairments by providing alternative methods of communication\, such as symbols\, text-to-speech\, or voice output\, allowing users to express their needs\, thoughts\, and feelings. \nGemma White is an SLP with over 20 years of experience working with AAC. She graduated from the University College London as a Speech Therapist in 2000. Gemma has served on the AAC SIG12: PDC and a member of RCSLT UK. Gemma developed applications and shared her clinical expertise presenting for Apple\, and numerous CE courses for SLP’s\, AT professionals\, including for multidisciplinary at ATIA and ASHA. She is currently the Clinical Coordinator at WIHD Assistive Technology Program and Speech Department\, NY. \nKen Hackbarth is the president and founder of Volksswitch.org (now Volksswitch LLC)\, an organization devoted to democratizing assistive technology by leveraging the power and promise of 3D printing. Prior to his current position\, he worked for almost three decades as a systems architect for AT&T Bell Laboratories and its subsequent divestitures. He has a Master of Science in Evolutionary Biology from the University of Arizona\, a Master of Science in Systems Engineering from the University of Arizona\, and a Master of Education in Special Education\, with a concentration in assistive technology\, from Bowling Green State University. \nNYC Metro Makers Making Change \nMakers Making Change aims to lower the barriers to assistive technology by connecting makers with assistive technology users and disability professionals to fabricate custom or available open designs. The New York City Metro Chapter is a group of volunteers supporting this mission through fabrication of devices and educational workshops. \nMaterials \nWe encourage you to follow along during this workshop. You will need the following in preparation: \nNeeded Software and Files \nYou will need a computer with the following software installed: \n\nOpenSCAD\nInkscape\n\nYou will need the following files saved on your computer: \n\nVolksswitch Keyguard Designer files\nScreenshot file of the desired AAC app and grid layout (ensure the screenshot is taken from the device you are creating the keyguard for)\n\nReview the Getting ready to do keyguard design video to learn how to install the needed software and set up your files and folders. \n*Please note\, for Mac users\, you may need to right click on the software icon and select “Open” from the dropdown menu in order to bypass security features; given this software is not from an identified developer. You will only need to complete this step the first time you launch the program. \nNeeded Materials \nPlease have the following items available: \n\niPad with the case being used\nmm ruler
URL:https://www.neilsquire.ca/event/mmc-nyc-metro-chapter-3d-designing-custom-keyguards-for-aac-access-2/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Buildathon,Community Event,Makers Making Change,Webinar,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.neilsquire.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/NYC-MMC-logo.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250819T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250819T160000
DTSTAMP:20250806T145846Z
CREATED:20250806T145846Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250806T145846Z
UID:30502-1755615600-1755619200@www.neilsquire.ca
SUMMARY:MMC NYC Metro Chapter: 3D Designing Custom Keyguards for AAC Access
DESCRIPTION:Join Gemma White and Ken Hackbarth for a virtual workshop where participants will learn how design their own highly customizable keyguard files using the Volksswitch Keyguard Customizer system. The generated files can then be 3D printed or lasercut; offering a low cost and highly accessible option for AAC users and their caregivers. \nKeyguards are physical overlays placed on top of keyboards or communication devices to help individuals with motor control difficulties accurately select keys by preventing accidental key presses. They support access to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) by providing a stable\, guided surface that enhances precision\, thereby enabling users to communicate more effectively. An AAC app is a software application designed to assist people with speech or language impairments by providing alternative methods of communication\, such as symbols\, text-to-speech\, or voice output\, allowing users to express their needs\, thoughts\, and feelings. \nGemma White is an SLP with over 20 years of experience working with AAC. She graduated from the University College London as a Speech Therapist in 2000. Gemma has served on the AAC SIG12: PDC and a member of RCSLT UK. Gemma developed applications and shared her clinical expertise presenting for Apple\, and numerous CE courses for SLP’s\, AT professionals\, including for multidisciplinary at ATIA and ASHA. She is currently the Clinical Coordinator at WIHD Assistive Technology Program and Speech Department\, NY. \nKen Hackbarth is the president and founder of Volksswitch.org (now Volksswitch LLC)\, an organization devoted to democratizing assistive technology by leveraging the power and promise of 3D printing. Prior to his current position\, he worked for almost three decades as a systems architect for AT&T Bell Laboratories and its subsequent divestitures. He has a Master of Science in Evolutionary Biology from the University of Arizona\, a Master of Science in Systems Engineering from the University of Arizona\, and a Master of Education in Special Education\, with a concentration in assistive technology\, from Bowling Green State University. \nNYC Metro Makers Making Change \nMakers Making Change aims to lower the barriers to assistive technology by connecting makers with assistive technology users and disability professionals to fabricate custom or available open designs. The New York City Metro Chapter is a group of volunteers supporting this mission through fabrication of devices and educational workshops. \nMaterials \nWe encourage you to follow along during this workshop. You will need the following in preparation: \nNeeded Software and Files \nYou will need a computer with the following software installed: \n\nOpenSCAD\nInkscape\n\nYou will need the following files saved on your computer: \n\nVolksswitch Keyguard Designer files\nScreenshot file of the desired AAC app and grid layout (ensure the screenshot is taken from the device you are creating the keyguard for)\n\nReview the Getting ready to do keyguard design video to learn how to install the needed software and set up your files and folders. \n*Please note\, for Mac users\, you may need to right click on the software icon and select “Open” from the dropdown menu in order to bypass security features; given this software is not from an identified developer. You will only need to complete this step the first time you launch the program. \nNeeded Materials \nPlease have the following items available: \n\niPad with the case being used\nmm ruler
URL:https://www.neilsquire.ca/event/mmc-nyc-metro-chapter-3d-designing-custom-keyguards-for-aac-access/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Makers Making Change,Presentation,Webinar,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.neilsquire.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Keyguard.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241204T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241204T193000
DTSTAMP:20241202T191034Z
CREATED:20241202T191034Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241202T191034Z
UID:29530-1733337000-1733340600@www.neilsquire.ca
SUMMARY:MMC NYC Metro Chapter: Getting Started with 3D Design & 3D Printing for Assistive Technology
DESCRIPTION:Join the NYC Metro Chapter of Makers Making Change for an engaging one-hour virtual workshop with 3D design expert Andres Guerrero\, where you’ll discover how to harness the power of 3D printing to create custom assistive technology solutions. This session is tailored for beginners interested in learning the fundamentals of 3D printing for accessibility. Andres will cover essential technical aspects\, including choosing the right printer and materials\, file preparation\, and common troubleshooting techniques to ensure a smooth print every time. Whether you’re looking to create personalized tools or support accessibility needs in your community\, this workshop will give you the foundational skills to bring your ideas to life. \n**Key Takeaways:** \n– Basics of 3D printers and how to choose the right model \n– Overview of materials suitable for assistive technology \n– Step-by-step guide to preparing design files for 3D printing \n– Troubleshooting tips for common issues \n**Who Should Attend:** \nThis workshop is ideal for educators\, makers\, healthcare professionals\, and anyone interested in 3D printing assistive devices. No prior experience is necessary—just bring your curiosity and a passion for making a difference! \n**About the presenter** \nAndres Guerrero\, MSE is the Rehabilitation Engineer at Blythedale Children’s Hospital. He earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechatronics Engineering at the Escuela Politecnica del Ejercito in Ecuador and a Master of Science in Engineering at the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a specialization in Design and Commercialization. With 5 years of experience working with therapists and children\, finding solutions for a variety of needs.
URL:https://www.neilsquire.ca/event/mmc-nyc-metro-chapter-getting-started-with-3d-design-3d-printing-for-assistive-technology/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Makers Making Change,Webinar,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.neilsquire.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Usage-Picture.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241107T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241107T160000
DTSTAMP:20240917T222057Z
CREATED:20240917T222057Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240917T222057Z
UID:29244-1730991600-1730995200@www.neilsquire.ca
SUMMARY:NYC Metro: Custom Keyguard Design Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Join us for this virtual workshop as we learn how to create 3D design files of custom keyguards. A keyguard is a physical overlay or barrier placed on a touchscreen device to assist users in accurately selecting desired areas of the screen. These overlays can help individuals with motor or cognitive impairments by providing physical boundaries around the selectable elements on the screen\, reducing accidental selections\, and improving accuracy during communication. Keyguards in AAC apps can be customized to fit the specific layout of symbols or buttons\, allowing users to interact with the app more effectively and independently. \nDuring this workshop\, we will walk through the process of starting with an app screenshot and creating a custom keyguard using Volksswitch’s Keyguard Designer. The workshop will cover the various customization and mounting options. \nThe target audience includes speech therapists\, occupational therapists\, assistive technology professionals\, and 3D design engineers. All skill levels are welcome to attend. For this workshop\, you will need to have access to the following: \n\nComputer with:\nOpenSCAD installed\nInkscape installed\nDownloaded design files\nScreenshot of the desired AAC app layout (taken from the device)\nRuler with mm measurements\n\nReview the Getting ready to do keyguard design video to learn how to install the needed software and set up your files and folders. Please note\, for Mac users\, you may need to right click on the software icon and select “Open” from the dropdown menu in order to bypass security features given this software is not from an identified developer. You will only need to complete this step the first time you launch the program. \nPresenters \nGemma White is an SLP with over 20 years of experience working with AAC. She graduated from the University College London as a Speech Therapist in 2000. Gemma has served on the AAC SIG12: PDC and is a member of RCSLT UK. Gemma developed applications and shared her clinical expertise presenting for Apple\, and numerous CE courses for SLP’s\, AT professionals\, including formultidisciplinary at ATIA and ASHA. She is currently the Clinical Coordinator at WIHD Assistive Technology Program and Speech Department\, NY. \n\nKen Hackbarth is the founder and president of Volksswitch.org (www.volksswitch.org) – an organization devoted to the democratization of assistive technology by leveraging the power and promise of 3D printing. Prior to this current position he worked for almost three decades as a systems architect for AT&T Bell Laboratories and its subsequent divestitures. He has a Master of Science in Evolutionary Biology and a Master of Science in Systems Engineering from the University of Arizona\, and a Master of Education in Special Education\, with a concentration in assistive technology\, from Bowling Green State University.
URL:https://www.neilsquire.ca/event/nyc-metro-custom-keyguard-design-workshop/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Makers Making Change,Presentation,Webinar,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.neilsquire.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Keyguard.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241002T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241002T100000
DTSTAMP:20240917T221500Z
CREATED:20240917T221500Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240917T221500Z
UID:29242-1727859600-1727863200@www.neilsquire.ca
SUMMARY:MMC NYC Metro Chapter: Empowering Communication: An Introduction to AsTeRICS Grid
DESCRIPTION:Join NYC Metro’s Chapter for a one-hour virtual workshop to explore the transformative potential of AsTeRICS Grid\, a free and open-source Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) app. Designed to bridge the communication gap for individuals with speech and language impairments\, AsTeRICS Grid offers a versatile and customizable platform that empowers users to express themselves effectively. \nIn this workshop\, you’ll learn about: \n\nKey features: Discover how AsTeRICS Grid’s intuitive interface\, extensive symbol library\, and customizable settings can cater to diverse communication needs.\nBenefits: Understand the positive impact of AAC on individuals’ quality of life\, social interactions\, and overall well-being.\n\nWhether you’re a caregiver\, educator\, or technology enthusiast\, this workshop will provide valuable information and practical tips for utilizing AsTeRICS Grid to enhance communication and foster inclusion. \nPresenter \nBenjamin Klaus is a dedicated technology professional with a strong background in computer science and a focus on human-centered technology. With a particular interest in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)\, Benjamin is committed to developing innovative solutions that empower individuals to communicate effectively. Their passion for open-source principles and collaborative approaches ensures that their work has a lasting impact on the AAC community by lowering the access barriers. \nBenjamin studied computer science at the Technical University of Vienna going on to study “Health Assisting Engineering” at the FH Campus in Wien. Through their work at the UAS Technikum Wien funded by the City of Vienna\, and contributions to projects like AsTeRICS Grid\, Benjamin has gained valuable experience in designing and implementing accessible and user-friendly technology. In addition\, they currently are further developing AsTeRICS Grid through private funding at Netidee.
URL:https://www.neilsquire.ca/event/mmc-nyc-metro-chapter-empowering-communication-an-introduction-to-asterics-grid/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Webinar,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.neilsquire.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Asterics.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240718T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240718T180000
DTSTAMP:20240628T225037Z
CREATED:20240628T225037Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240628T225037Z
UID:28967-1721322000-1721325600@www.neilsquire.ca
SUMMARY:MMC NYC Chapter: Make Your Own Arcade Games for Beginning Switch Use
DESCRIPTION:Adaptive gaming has proven to be a powerful avenue to lower isolation and bring the joy of play! During this workshop\, we will learn how to create simple and custom video games using the Makecode Arcade block based coding editor. Games developed on this platform can be customized to meet the novel gamers needs and adjusted for speed\, complexity\, and access method. We will be learning some of the basics of this platform and what is possible. Beginners and novice learners are highly encouraged to join. \nThe workshop will also talk about the hardware options where created games may be played. This includes a demo of the Rocket Switch Interface by Makers Making Change and 3D printed switches to manage game elements on a computer or mobile device without the need for expensive gaming consoles (although Makecode Arcade will run on xBox!). \nLocation\nThis will be a virtual event held over Google Meet with the join link provided after registration. \nPresenters\nChristopher Marotta OTD\, OTR/L is an occupational therapist who provides services to students with physical disabilities at the Henry Viscardi School in Albertson\, NY. He has worked as an OT for 20 years in a variety of settings\, but his passion is assistive technology and enabling his students to be successful in and out of the classroom. Chris is an avid tinkerer\, enjoying designing and fabricating adaptive devices. He shares his knowledge with others by lecturing occupational therapy students as an adjunct faculty member at Stony Brook University\, Touro University and Hofstra University. He currently is co-leader of the NYC chapter of Makers Making Change\, where his goal is to teach others the skills of adaptation along with increasing awareness of disabilities. \nLoreto Dumitrescu is an occupational therapist working for the New York City Department of Education for over 20 years providing both direct service and AT evaluations and previously providing early intervention services. Loreto received an MA in Educational Technology from Adelphi University and teaches as an adjunct professor about Universal Design for Learning and assistive technology. As a co-founder of Zero Day Camp\, a non-profit organization on a mission to bring digital literacy and computer science education to youth and educators\, she has applied her skills in supporting access to affordable and customized assistive technology using fabrication techniques from the maker movement (physical computing\, 3D print\, and design\, cardboard carpentry\, etc.). Currently\, she helps support programming and outreach for the NYC chapter of Makers Making Change as a volunteer co-chapter leader. \nEquipment\nFor this workshop you will need a computer or laptop with internet access. \nQuestions?\nEmail us at nycmetrommc@gmail.com.
URL:https://www.neilsquire.ca/event/mmc-nyc-chapter-make-your-own-arcade-games-for-beginning-switch-use/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Buildathon,Community Event,Makers Making Change,Webinar,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.neilsquire.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/NYC-MMC-logo.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240530T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240530T180000
DTSTAMP:20240524T222116Z
CREATED:20240524T222116Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240524T222116Z
UID:28818-1717088400-1717092000@www.neilsquire.ca
SUMMARY:MMC NYC Chapter: Custom Keyguard Design Virtual Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Join us for this virtual workshop as we learn how to create 3D design files of custom keyguards. A keyguard is a physical overlay or barrier placed on a touchscreen device to assist users in accurately selecting desired areas of the screen. These overlays can help individuals with motor or cognitive impairments by providing physical boundaries around the selectable elements on the screen\, reducing accidental selections\, and improving accuracy during communication. Keyguards in AAC apps can be customized to fit the specific layout of symbols or buttons\, allowing users to interact with the app more effectively and independently. \nDuring this workshop\, we will walk through the process of starting with an app screenshot and creating a custom keyguard using Volksswitch’s Keyguard Designer. The workshop will cover the various customization and mounting options. \nThe target audience includes speech therapists\, occupational therapists\, assistive technology professionals\, and 3D design engineers. All skill levels are welcome to attend. For this workshop\, you will need to have access to the following: \n\nComputer with:\nOpenSCAD installed\nInkscape installed\nDownloaded design files\nScreenshot of the desired AAC app layout (taken from the device)\nRuler with mm measurements\n\nPresenters \nGemma White is an SLP with over 20 years of experience working with AAC. She graduated from the University College London as a Speech Therapist in 2000. Gemma has served on the AAC SIG12: PDC and is a member of RCSLT UK. Gemma developed applications and shared her clinical expertise presenting for Apple\, and numerous CE courses for SLP’s\, AT professionals\, including for multidisciplinary at ATIA and ASHA. She is currently the Clinical Coordinator at WIHD Assistive Technology Program and Speech Department\, NY. \nKen Hackbarth is the founder and president of Volksswitch.org (www.volksswitch.org) – an organization devoted to the democratization of assistive technology by leveraging the power and promise of 3D printing. Prior to this current position he worked for almost three decades as a systems architect for AT&T Bell Laboratories and its subsequent divestitures. He has a Master of Science in Evolutionary Biology and a Master of Science in Systems Engineering from the University of Arizona\, and a Master of Education in Special Education\, with a concentration in assistive technology\, from Bowling Green State University. \nLocation \nThis is a virtual workshop. The meeting link will be shared via email after registration.
URL:https://www.neilsquire.ca/event/mmc-nyc-chapter-custom-keyguard-design-virtual-workshop/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Buildathon,Community Event,Makers Making Change,Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.neilsquire.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/pLXiw6xX.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240308T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240308T170000
DTSTAMP:20240223T001809Z
CREATED:20240223T001809Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240223T001809Z
UID:28251-1709910000-1709917200@www.neilsquire.ca
SUMMARY:NYC Metro Chapter: Custom Keyguard Design Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Join Makers Making Change’s New York City Chapter for this virtual workshop as we learn how to create 3D design files of custom keyguards. A keyguard is a physical overlay or barrier placed on a touchscreen device to assist users in accurately selecting desired areas of the screen. These overlays can help individuals with motor or cognitive impairments by providing physical boundaries around the selectable elements on the screen\, reducing accidental selections\, and improving accuracy during communication. Keyguards in AAC apps can be customized to fit the specific layout of symbols or buttons\, allowing users to interact with the app more effectively and independently. \nDuring this workshop\, we will walk through the process of starting with an app screenshot and creating a custom keyguard using Volksswitch’s Keyguard Designer. The workshop will cover the various customization and mounting options. \nThe target audience includes speech therapists\, occupational therapists\, assistive technology professionals\, and 3D design engineers. All skill levels are welcome to attend. For this workshop\, you will need to have access to the following: \n\nComputer with OpenSCAD installed and Inkscape installed\nDownloaded design files\nScreenshot of the desired AAC app layout (taken from the device)\nRuler with mm measurements\n\nRegister HERE \nPresenter \nGemma White is an SLP with over 20 years of experience working with AAC. She graduated from the University College London as a Speech Therapist in 2000. Gemma has served on the AAC SIG12: PDC and is a member of RCSLT UK. Gemma developed applications and shared her clinical expertise presenting for Apple\, and numerous CE courses for SLP’s\, AT professionals\, including for multidisciplinary at ATIA and ASHA. She is currently the Clinical Coordinator at WIHD Assistive Technology Program and Speech Department\, NY. \nLocation: \nThis is a virtual workshop. The meeting link will be shared via email after registration.
URL:https://www.neilsquire.ca/event/nyc-metro-chapter-custom-keyguard-design-workshop/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Buildathon,Community Event,Makers Making Change,Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.neilsquire.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/NYC-MMC-logo.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240203T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240203T140000
DTSTAMP:20240124T183158Z
CREATED:20240124T183158Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240124T183158Z
UID:28090-1706958000-1706968800@www.neilsquire.ca
SUMMARY:MMC NYC Chapter: Birch Mini Joystick Build
DESCRIPTION:During the hybrid build\, the Makers Making Change NYC Chapter will construct the Birch Mini Joystick by Makers Making Change during this build. \nThe Birch Mini Joystick is a small\, proportional joystick with a sliding motion and can be used for adaptive gaming. It has a small range of motion of ±2mm and requires approximately 115 grams of force to deflect fully. It is low profile\, with a height of 2.4 mm with the standard topper. This joystick has interchangeable toppers and an optional camera mount adapter. \nWe will be constructing the USB variant (U) which has a cable with a USB-A connector. It acts as a USB HID gamepad with a single joystick and is compatible with a variety of devices including PC and the USB ports of the Microsoft Xbox Adaptive Controller. The deadzone of this variant can be adjusted through a serial interface. \nThis build is open to all skill levels with all parts and components provided as part of registration. Participants are asked to bring their own laptops with Arduino software installed before. The software may be downloaded free of charge. \nVirtual\nVirtual participants may request a component kit on or before Friday\, 1/26/2024\, to ensure the timely arrival of materials for participation. Remote participants should have access to their own soldering iron\, wire strippers\, flush cutter\, and Phillips head screwdriver. \nIn Person\nDa Vinci Collaborative \n550 N. Country Rd. \nSt. James\, NY 11780 \nQuestions & Registration\nHave questions or are interested in volunteering your 3D printing skills? Email loreto@zeroday.camp
URL:https://www.neilsquire.ca/event/mmc-nyc-chapter-birch-mini-joystick-build/
LOCATION:Da Vinci Collaborative\, 550 N. Country Rd.\, St. James\, NY\, United States
CATEGORIES:Buildathon,Community Event,Makers Making Change
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.neilsquire.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Birch-Mini-Joystick-A-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20231209T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20231209T150000
DTSTAMP:20231106T192201Z
CREATED:20231106T192201Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231106T192201Z
UID:27785-1702123200-1702134000@www.neilsquire.ca
SUMMARY:Holiday Adapted Toy Hackathon
DESCRIPTION:The holidays are here! Join the NYC metro chapter of Makers Making Change in collaboration with NYU Ability Project for an annual toy adaptation hackathon. \nA switch-adapted toy is a modified toy that has been altered to accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities. The modification usually involves adding a switch interface that allows the toy to be activated using a switch instead of the toy’s original buttons or controls. \nSwitch-adapted toys are primarily used by individuals with limited mobility or dexterity\, such as those with cerebral palsy\, muscular dystrophy\, or other mobility impairments. These toys provide an accessible and inclusive play experience by allowing individuals with disabilities to independently operate and enjoy the same toys as their peers. The switch can be activated by various means\, such as using a finger\, foot\, or any other body part that the individual can control. By adapting toys in this way\, it promotes cognitive development\, sensory stimulation\, and enhances overall engagement and play opportunities for individuals with disabilities. \nDuring this hackathon\, participants will learn how to adapt a simple toy as well as build a 3D-printed simple switch to activate the toy. To learn more about this process\, take a look at Makers Making Change’s “How to Switch Adapt Toys” page for an overview and additional guidance. \nAll materials and equipment will be provided and are included in the registration cost. You are welcome to keep your adapted toy and switch or may donate it to a needy organization. \nPlease note we will be soldering!!! If you require accommodations\, please let us know in the comments section during the registration process. No young children may attend.
URL:https://www.neilsquire.ca/event/holiday-adapted-toy-hackathon/
LOCATION:NYU Ability Project\, 370 Jay Street\, Suite 316\, Brooklyn\, NY\, 11201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Buildathon,Community Event,Makers Making Change
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20231119T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20231119T150000
DTSTAMP:20231106T191840Z
CREATED:20231106T191840Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231106T191840Z
UID:27784-1700395200-1700406000@www.neilsquire.ca
SUMMARY:Make Play Accessible: A Toy Adapting Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Join us this holiday season in supporting the magic of play for children with primarily motor disabilities. During this workshop\, we will be modifying commercial toys to make them switch accessible. The primary goal is to provide an avenue for these children to engage in play and recreation independently. Switches are external devices that can be activated by various movements or touch\, such as pressing a button\, blowing into a tube\, or tapping with a foot. Adapting toys involves modifying their design to incorporate these external switches\, allowing children with limited mobility to control and interact with the toys more easily. \nSwitch-adapted toys can range from simple to complex\, depending on the child’s needs and preferences. The process of making toys switch-accessible not only opens up new possibilities for play but also contributes significantly to the child’s cognitive and motor skill development. By incorporating inclusivity in toy design\, we create opportunities for children of all abilities to experience the joy\, learning\, and social interaction that play brings. \nIn addition to adapting a toy\, participants will also fabricate a 3D printed switch to accompany the toy. The commercial options for these switches is often high and adds an additional barrier to access. All toys and switches created as part of the workshop may be kept by participants to gift to those in their lives or will be donated to local schools and organizations. \nWho is this class for? \nThe class is geared towards all levels of technical skill with extra support provided for those new to soldering. Makers\, health professionals\, caregivers\, and family members of children with disabilities are encouraged to attend. \n$10 is the minimum donation to cover the cost of a toy\, but suggested is $20. All additional funds will go to Makers Making Change local chapter to fund volunteers who cannot cover the base price\, but still want to participate\, and towards future initiatives.
URL:https://www.neilsquire.ca/event/make-play-accessible-a-toy-adapting-workshop/
LOCATION:NYC Resistor\, 87 3rd Avenue\, 4th Floor\, Brooklyn\, 11217\, United States
CATEGORIES:Buildathon,Community Event,Makers Making Change
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20231104T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20231104T150000
DTSTAMP:20231106T191449Z
CREATED:20231106T191449Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231106T191449Z
UID:27782-1699095600-1699110000@www.neilsquire.ca
SUMMARY:3rd Annual Adapted Toy Hackathon - MMC NYC Chapter
DESCRIPTION:The holidays are here! Join the NYC metro chapter of Makers Making Change in collaboration with Makerspace NYC and Second Chance Toys for its third annual toy adaptation hackathon. Our goal is to adapt the gently donated toys supplied by Second Chance Toys for switch access and get them out in time for the holiday. In addition\, we will be building some simple 3D-printed switches to accompany the adapted toys. \nWe will be setting up shop at the Brooklyn Makerspace NYC location along with the needed equipment to adapt. This is a free event and any skill level is welcome from the expert electrical engineer to the curious parent. We will be soldering\, therefore\, young children may not attend. Adapted toys may be taken home free of charge. \nHave a toy you’d like to adapt? Consider bringing it to the hackathon and get some help! When selecting a toy to hack\, consider toys that activate using buttons. Toys that require voice control\, motion\, or other more complex activation methods may be more challenging to adapt. Take a look at Makers Making Change’s “How to Switch Adapt Toys” page for an overview and additional guidance. \nStarting at 11 am\, we will have a short hands-on demonstration of the toy adapting and switch-building process. After that time\, we will have open adapting time for the provided toys with ongoing support from MMC chapter volunteers.
URL:https://www.neilsquire.ca/event/3rd-annual-adapted-toy-hackathon-mmc-nyc-chapter/
LOCATION:Makerspace NYC\, 140 58th St Building B Unit 1C\, Brooklyn\, NY\, 11220\, United States
CATEGORIES:Buildathon,Community Event,Makers Making Change
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