CTN families can now borrow a powered mobility device called the Explorer Mini to help their child increase mobility, learn more independence and have fun! This new piece of equipment is part of the CTN Equipment Loan Program funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation.

The Explorer Mini (made by Permobil) is a motorized chair that is controlled by a joystick. It offers children aged 12 to 36 months with mobility challenges, a way to move themselves independently and explore the world around them. It was named one of the best inventions of 2021 by Time magazine.

What are the benefits of the Explorer Mini?

1.    Family – The lightweight design makes it easy to transport so that it can be used at home and in the community

2.    Function – A young child’s ability to explore their environment promotes a wide range of developmental skills (including language, social, motor and sensory skills)
 
3.    Fun – “Now that Sylvia has been in the Explorer Mini for a couple of weeks, we're really seeing a lot of drive for her own independence. She just wants to do stuff on her own now.” Mike Kennedy, Sylvia's Dad

4.    Friends – The Mini gives children a chance to play and socialize with their peers more easily

5.    Future – The Explorer Mini isn’t just about getting these children mobile now, it’s about laying foundations for life-long social and emotional benefit

Learn more about the benefits of the Explorer Mini here.

Watch Sylvia’s Story



The Permobil Explorer Mini is part of the CTN Equipment Loan Program and can be borrowed by families of children and youth who receive OT/PT services and live in Simcoe County or York Region. Speak to your child’s therapist for more information.

CTN supports children, youth and families by focusing on CanChild's framework of the F-words for Child Development. Every child with varying abilities has the right to have fun, enjoy friends, function as they are, access fitness, plan for their future and join in family activities like hiking and playing at the beach!
 

1 Rosenbaum, P., & Gorter, J. W. (2012). The ‘F‐words’ in childhood disability: I swear this is how we should think!. Child: care, health and development, 38(4), 457-463 http://www.canchild.ca/f-words Before F-Words for Child Development