For the past year and a half, the Swap&Play events we organise have been more than fun activities for children and parents alike. They are a space where families from all walks of life come together, all while contributing to climate action and social justice.

Today, we want them (starting with two of them) to become an inclusive time and space for children with special needs–and here's why we are asking your help. We are going to run two special events in the coming months: Sensory Swap&Play.

Will you help us fund them? See yourself what a Swap&Play looks like, and what you can contribute to create for Irish communities: https://youtu.be/1LzM4Oe14pU

We have started The Toy Library, Ireland's first digital sharing platform for toys, to ensure that every child has access to their fundamental right to play — in a way that is sustainable, inclusive, and dignified.

But not all children are alike.

For many parents of children with special needs, everyday life comes with an added weight. Private therapy is often essential, yet financially out of reach. Public services are limited, and waiting lists can stretch endlessly. Too often, families are left to choose between what their child needs and what they can afford.

Play is not “just play.”

Children learn from one another through play. They observe, imitate, connect, and grow. For children with disabilities, play is even more critical — yet it often requires additional support, access, and opportunity.

That’s why we created Sensory Swap&Play : a special Swap&Play event crafted to offer these children the time and space they need to explore new toys, develop fundamental skills, and learn about the world and themselves.

This initiative, made possible by you and all the generous donors taking part in this crowdfunding campaign, will allow us to offer:

For children with special needs — many of whom are non-verbal — having the freedom to explore different toys, textures, sounds, and social interactions can be life-changing. Sensory Swap&Play gives them space and time they might not otherwise have: space to develop essential skills, to learn by observing others, and simply to be among peers.

When you contribute, you are not just funding an event.

You are giving a family the chance to support their child’s development.

You are helping a child feel seen, included, and less alone.

You are reminding parents that they don’t have to carry everything by themselves.

We are in this together. Let’s support one another — and make play accessible to every child.

By contributing to this campaign, and by sharing it far and wide in your network, you are helping make Sensory Swap&Play possible. Thank you!