LeapFrog Assistive Walker

red dot
red dot award: design concept 2007

design:

Donn Koh

Leapfrog is a new type of walker designed for children suffering from cerebral palsy or spina bifida, which offers a sense of fun and freedom.

Unlike other assistive walkers, which often concentrate only on the physical needs of children with cerebral palsy or spina bifida, LeapFrog Assistive Walker also factors in their emotional needs. LeapFrog helps children with impaired mobility to rise and stand from a sedentary position, as well as allowing them to practice walking and attain balance. It also allows for short sedentary breaks. The transformation between the various modes (i.e. sitting, standing and walking) is seamless, as it automatically follows the intention and movement of the child. Automatic sit-braking prevents the child from sliding and crashing when seated, and therefore prevents the child from acquiring erroneous movement patterns.

Thus, instead of being forced or locked into positions, the child is partially assisted in the switch between sitting, standing and walking. This not only allows for more autonomous and frequent practice, but also imparts a greater sense of achievement, independence and self-confidence. The product’s support mechanism can be set according to weight and therefore can be adjusted according to the child’s development. In addition, the appearance of LeapFrog gives a caring, fun and toy-like impression instead of the frightening medical aesthetics of conventional walkers, which other children shun in fear. This toy-like appearance even prompts unimpaired children to eagerly ask, “Can I play with that too?”