🧠 Can toys make us better designers?
In this solo episode of Workspace Design Lab, host Syl Vander Park takes a thoughtful dive into how everyday objects, like fidget toys and lap pads, are changing the way we think about workplace comfort, focus, and inclusion. Inspired by a conversation with her 6-year-old daughter, Syl explores how tools often used in classrooms can translate to adult offices in powerful ways. From posture and sensory input to neurodiverse-friendly design, this episode uncovers the small, often overlooked choices that lead to more human-centered workspaces. If you're designing for wellbeing, this one’s a must-listen.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
• Ergonomic chairs, kneeling stools, and balance balls can promote posture and improve focus
• Fidget toys and tactile tools help with emotional regulation and engagement
• Sensory mats and weighted lap pads provide comfort and body awareness
• Neurodiversity needs to be considered in workplace design
• Personal comfort tools, photos, gadgets, habits, have ergonomic impact
• Adult nervous habits can mirror tools used in childhood classrooms
• Inclusive design should address how people actually function, not just how spaces look
• Education settings offer inspiration for ergonomic innovation
• Repetitive movement helps regulate attention and processing
• Movement between activities supports focus and anticipation
BEST MOMENTS:

00:01:43. “Do you talk about toys? And I thought about it... what a wonderful way to think about our workplaces.”
00:02:28. “We're all some kind of overwhelmed with what I'm looking at. I can get distracted and lose my train of thought.”
00:03:15. “Some people, they have their desks and they put their pictures up. That gives them a sense of comfort.”
00:04:07. “The elementary school and children's ergonomic considerations are probably... I’m going to have to do a deep dive.”
00:05:09. “Ergonomic toys would support good posture, improve focus and provide sensory input.”
00:06:02. “Safety. Ensure all toys are childproof and made of non-toxic materials.”
00:07:44. “Generally people talk about making sure that kids get up every 30 minutes.”
00:09:48. “Can public schools implement great lessons from what we see in workplaces?”

Workspace Design Lab | Healthy Spaces, Lasting Impact
📅 New episodes release every 2nd Thursday at 6 AM ET / GMT-4.
Join host Syl VanderPark as we explore ergonomic office design, modern interiors, and sustainable workspace solutions with architects, designers, and industry leaders.
Watch and subscribe on YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/4x47wvr2
💡 If this conversation helped you reimagine what a workspace can be, share it with a colleague or client. Together we can design offices that support wellbeing, productivity, and lasting impact.
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