In South Africa, inclusive-by-design resources are still surprisingly hard to find. This collection focuses on what is genuinely available locally,
chosen for everyday play, shared learning, and flexibility across abilities, bodies, and family experiences.
Accessible by nature
Accessible by nature
Different bodies, same play
Different bodies, same play
Inclusive stories & books
Inclusive stories & books
Representation in everyday play
Representation in everyday play
Explore all inclusive play & learning
Explore all inclusive play & learning
Latest inclusive-by-design finds
More questions we hear
Why are inclusive toys more common internationally than in South Africa?
Inclusive-by-design toys are still an emerging category globally, and local distribution in South Africa has been slow. Many international brands do not ship here or do so at a high cost. We prioritise what is realistically accessible locally, while continuing to advocate for better representation and availability.
What makes a toy inclusive-by-design?
Inclusive toys are those that reflect real children in the world, support a variety of play styles, and can be used comfortably by many different kinds of learners and bodies. They are chosen for flexibility, representation, and everyday play value.
Are inclusive play and sensory play the same thing?
Not always. Sensory play focuses on how the senses are engaged, while inclusive play includes sensory-friendly options and toys that reflect diversity, accessibility, and open-ended flexibility. Many toys do both, but one doesn’t guarantee the other.
Are books part of inclusive play?
Yes. Books are often a child’s first exposure to difference, identity, and belonging. Inclusive books support representation through stories, imagery, and language, and help normalise difference as part of everyday life.
What if my child uses assistive tools or aids?
Inclusive toys work well alongside many assistive tools because they don’t rely on narrow physical motions or specialised labels. If you’re unsure, think about how naturally a toy fits into everyday play and movement.
Where can I find activities that support inclusive play at home?
Inclusive play is bigger than toys. Many online guides and activity ideas focus on open-ended, sensory-rich, and diversity-affirming play experiences for parents and educators. Resources like creative play ideas, sensory storytelling, and play frames can be great complements to this collection.
Are these only for children with additional needs?
No. Inclusive toys are designed for shared play. They help all children see difference as normal, not exceptional, and support empathy, imagination, and social understanding.
Will my child notice the differences represented?
Children often notice far less than adults expect. When difference is presented as part of everyday play, it is accepted quickly and naturally.
How do I know if a toy is right for my child?
There is no “perfect” choice. We include guidance where helpful, but inclusive play is flexible by nature. Many of these toys work across ages, abilities, and stages.
Why don’t you label toys by diagnosis or condition?
Because children are not diagnoses.
Labelling can unintentionally narrow how a toy is used or who it is “for.” We focus instead on how toys support play, connection, and imagination.
Why is this collection smaller than others?
We curate with intention. Rather than including everything that loosely fits the idea of inclusion, we choose toys that meet our criteria and feel right in everyday South African homes.
This collection will grow as access improves and new options become available.
Can I buy these toys at other SA shops?
Sometimes. Because distribution is inconsistent, we gather what is available locally so you can find everything in one place. Where products are also available elsewhere, we include them here for easier discovery.
Can I suggest a toy or brand?
Yes, please. Many of the best additions come from parents, therapists, and educators who notice gaps before suppliers do.
If there’s something you wish existed locally, we want to hear about it.
A curated selection of resources chosen to support inclusive, calm, and meaningful play.
These tools encourage communication, emotional understanding, attention, and regulation, making everyday play more accessible for children with different learning needs.
Inclusive play doesn’t require expertise. It just starts with noticing what feels welcoming, flexible, and real.
