Making toy libraries more inclusive for children with developmental delay and disability

Toy libraries have always been about more than toys. They’re community spaces where families connect, children learn through play, and everyone is welcome. But how inclusive are they for families of children with disability or developmental delay? That’s the question explored in recent national research led by Toy Libraries Australia and funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services. The study surveyed parents, carers, and professionals across the country to understand what’s working well and what needs to improve to make toy libraries accessible for all. 

Image description: Bright, organised toy shelves inside Knox Toy Library.

Why families choose toy libraries 

Families join toy libraries for many reasons, but one stands out most clearly is to support their child’s development through play. Parents also value the savings, the sustainability, and the chance to try new toys without adding clutter at home. 

For families of children with disability, toy libraries can be even more valuable. Many borrow toys that support therapy goals, such as sensory or fine-motor play, or toys that help with school readiness. This shows how toy libraries can help families continue therapy at home in fun and engaging ways. 

What are the barriers in access 

The research also highlighted some clear barriers that make it harder for families of children with disability to access toy libraries and feel included. 

• Limited access: Some communities still don’t have a local toy library, and transport and parking can be difficult at toy libraries.  

• Physical environments: Small or cluttered spaces can be overwhelming for children with sensory needs or challenging for those using mobility aids.  

• Short or irregular hours: Many libraries rely on volunteers, which limits when they can open.  

• Volunteering expectations: For some families, volunteer shifts required by some toy libraries can feel impractical while managing disability-related needs.  

• Communication gaps: Families often find out about toy libraries by chance and may miss important updates about sessions or hours.  

• Low professional awareness: Therapists and educators aren’t always familiar with toy libraries or the benefits they offer families. 

These barriers mean that some of the children who could benefit the most are missing out.  

What families and professionals want to see 

When asked what would make toy libraries more inclusive, families and professionals had very similar ideas. They want toy libraries that are welcoming, flexible, and better resourced. 

• Dedicated sensory-friendly or quiet sessions for children who find busy spaces difficult.  

• A shared collection of specialised toys that can be borrowed from multiple libraries.  

• Practical resources for parents to help guide play and therapy activities at home.  

• An app or online system for easier communication, bookings, and toy catalogues.  

• More promotion and advocacy to raise awareness of toy libraries as essential early years services.  

• Funding for trained staff who understand child development and inclusion.  

Together, these ideas paint a picture of what truly inclusive toy libraries could look like in the future. 

Turning ideas into action 

The research offers practical steps for both short-term change and long-term improvement. 

In the short term, toy libraries could: 

• Introduce quiet or sensory sessions.  

• Offer flexible volunteering options.  

• Partner with professionals to share parent resources and host information sessions.  

• Improve communication with families through apps and online tools.  

• Strengthen marketing to families, professionals, and policymakers. 

 In the longer term, the sector needs: 

• Sustainable funding models that reduce dependence on volunteers.  

• Paid, trained staff who can lead inclusive, development-focused programs.  

• Recognition of toy libraries within the Thriving Kids framework. 

Why this work matters 

Families love their toy libraries for the joy, the savings, the community, and the learning they bring. But for toy libraries to truly welcome every family, they need the right systems and support. 

With continued investment and collaboration, toy libraries can play a vital role in making play and learning accessible to all children, including those with disability or developmental delay. 

Toy Libraries Australia has already used this research to design pilot projects focused on reducing barriers for families of children with disability and developmental delay. These pilots are now being delivered across nine toy libraries around Australia, thanks to funding from the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.