Building mobility trainers for toddlers

UC Berkeley students gathered at the Jacobs Institute on Friday, February 13, 2026, to assemble assistive devices designed for young children with disabilities. The event, dubbed a "Toddler Mobility Trainer (TMT) build party," brought together a group of eager volunteers, including MDes students and community members, to put together these innovative devices.

The Toddler Mobility Trainer is a lightweight, modular assistive device that aids toddlers with physical disabilities in achieving greater mobility. Designed with input from pediatricians and specialists in the field, the TMT is tailored to support children as they navigate their daily lives, from crawling to walking. The device is adjustable, allowing it to grow with the child and cater to their evolving needs.

During the build party, students such as Congruo Guan, Ruo-Lin Wang, and Jacob Sheiner worked diligently to assemble the TMTs. Their hands-on experience in the field of engineering proved invaluable as they carefully followed the design blueprints to ensure each component was correctly placed. The assembly line, set up in the spacious Jacobs Hall, buzzed with activity as volunteers moved swiftly to complete each unit.

One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity to witness a child using the newly assembled TMT. Four-year-old Charlotte Posthumus eagerly tested her new device with the help of her mother, Jamie Posthumus, and Dana Yichye Shwachman, a volunteer coordinator. Charlotte's joyful exploration of the TMT showcased the device's effectiveness in supporting her movement. The TMT's design allowed her to crawl and walk with greater ease, providing her with the independence she desired.

The build party was not only a testament to the ingenuity of the students and volunteers but also a celebration of collaboration between academia and the community. The Jacobs Institute, known for its commitment to innovation and social good, provided a platform for these young engineers to make a tangible difference in the lives of children with disabilities.

The Toddler Mobility Trainer project is part of a broader initiative at UC Berkeley to address the needs of children with disabilities. By involving students in the design and assembly process, the university fosters a culture of empathy and responsibility, encouraging future engineers to consider the social impact of their work.

As the build party drew to a close, the assembled TMTs were packed and prepared for distribution to families in need. The event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of accessibility and the potential of technology to improve the lives of children with disabilities. The success of the TMT build party at the Jacobs Institute underscores the value of community involvement in addressing complex challenges, and it sets the stage for future collaborations between students, researchers, and families.

In the years to come, the Toddler Mobility Trainer is poised to become an essential tool for many families, helping toddlers with disabilities achieve greater independence and enhancing their quality of life. The build party at UC Berkeley marked a significant milestone in this journey, bringing together a diverse group of individuals to make a meaningful impact on the world.