Class Overview

In partnership with Makers Making Change and their national Hacking for the Holidays initiative, this hands‑on workshop invites participants to use making skills for social good. In a single, immersive session, you’ll design and build an assistive switch that helps make battery‑operated toys more accessible for children with disabilities.

Through the process of building these switches, participants will be introduced to the basics of 3D printing and simple electronics, while also learning about inclusive design and how low‑cost assistive technologies can have a real impact in people’s lives. The switches made in this class will be donated through local practitioners and community partners (details to be confirmed in collaboration with Makers Making Change).

This is an intergenerational class, designed for adults and kids to learn together, collaborate, and contribute to a meaningful community initiative.

What You’ll Learn

Over the course of this 3‑hour workshop, participants will:

• Learn about Makers Making Change and the goals of the Hacking for the Holidays initiative

• Gain an introduction to assistive technology and inclusive design principles

• Learn the basics of 3D printing, including how printed parts are used in assistive devices

• Build a functional assistive switch using 3D‑printed components

• Learn foundational electronics skills, including:

  • Understanding simple circuits

  • Stripping and preparing wires

  • Soldering electronic components safely

• Assemble and test a completed switch ready for donation

No prior experience with 3D printing or electronics is required — all skills are taught during the class.

what to bring

• Just yourself, your curiosity, and a willingness to learn and collaborate. All materials, tools, and components needed to build the assistive switches are included.

Personal Safety

• Closed-toe shoes required

• Avoid loose clothing and tie back long hair

• Notebook & pencil (optional for notes)

Prerequisites

None. This class is beginner friendly.