A heartwarming unveiling event for the Kangarooz took place last week at the Beit Guy rehabilitative daycare center in Netanya. The event showcased the innovative dynamic standing aid designed to support toddlers with disabilities. The Kangarooz facilitates motor learning through active standing, enhancing the physical and emotional development of children. Its benefits extend to caregivers and parents, who also experience improved engagement and interaction with the toddlers. The project resulted from a collaboration between professionals at "Beit Guy" and TOM, an initiative promoting technological solutions for people with disabilities.
The idea was spearheaded by Efrat Shavit, a physiotherapist at Beit Guy and a visionary entrepreneur who believes in the transformative power of motor-based solutions for daily life. Partnering with TOM, Efrat aimed to realize her vision. TOM is a global social initiative that develops open-source technological solutions for unmet needs among people with disabilities. Together, they designed the Kangarooz to enhance the quality of life for children at Beit Guy and beyond.
The dynamic standing aid not only fosters participation and communication opportunities but also improves self-confidence and body image in a safe and comfortable manner. Its design enables intensive use in kindergartens and homes, offering both physical and sensory support for caregivers and parents.
Beit Guy serves as a rehabilitative daycare center in Netanya for toddlers with special needs. Operated by the local welfare and social security administration in collaboration with Israel's Ministry of Welfare and Social Affairs, the center provides a warm, supportive environment tailored to the unique needs of every child. Its comprehensive services include therapeutic, rehabilitative, and emotional support for toddlers and their families.
TOM—Tikkun Olam Makers—is an Israeli-global social initiative that creates technological solutions for the unmet needs of individuals with disabilities. Through a network of makers, designers, engineers, and para-medical professionals, TOM's solutions are published on its open-source platform, Tomglobal.org, enabling cost-effective production anywhere in the world.
Ilanit Maimon, director of Beit Guy, remarked:"Beyond providing care and nurturing for our children, Beit Guy serves as a knowledge hub, attracting professionals from across the country for training and skill-sharing. The development of the Kangarooz uplifts spirits and inspires further innovation."
Clara Chen, Regional Welfare and Disabilities Division Manager, added:"Blessed are the initiators, visionaries, and developers. The welfare department will contribute 50% of the funding for the Kangarooz for home use by eligible toddlers in Netanya."
Dana Yichye Shwachman, a senior designer at TOM, shared at the event:"We are thrilled every time a unique need finds its answer. We are grateful to our incredible volunteer makers, Efrat, and the entire Beit Guy team for their countless hours of dedicated and professional work in developing the Kangarooz."