Best Adaptive Equipment & Teaching Tools for Students with Disabilities
Physical and Occupational Therapists on a Mission
To Support Teachers with Adaptive Equipment for Children with Cerebral Palsy and Other Physical Disabilities of the Hand
As therapists who have spent decades supporting students with motor challenges, we know firsthand how much heart and hard work goes into every classroom. Teachers have to juggle diverse learning needs, tight schedules, and limited resources — and they do it all with a deep commitment to helping every child thrive.
For students who struggle with fine motor skills, simple activities like writing, art, or using classroom technology can feel overwhelming — for both the student and the teacher.
That’s why we created the functionalhand®, the kind of adaptive equipment and teaching tool we wished every classroom had. Today, we want to share why having the right tools — especially versatile, easy-to-use solutions — can change everything.
Why Every Classroom Needs Versatile Adaptive Equipment Devices Like the functionalhand®
The functionalhand® universal cuff is an innovative adaptive equipment tool that helps students with disabilities participate in classroom activities. Designed as a versatile universal cuff, it supports students with weak grips, hand disabilities, and hand deformities by allowing them to securely hold writing tools, styluses, art supplies, and adaptive technology.
Unlike traditional devices that are limited to one purpose, the functionalhand® easily adapts to a wide range of activities — replacing the need for multiple specialized tools. This flexibility promotes fine motor skill development, builds independence, fosters inclusion, and reduces teacher stress by simplifying classroom adaptations.
With the functionalhand®, schools can provide affordable, effective assistive devices that create truly accessible and empowering learning environments.
Buy the functionalhand® for the classrooms in your school today and give children and teens a feeling of greater independence, confidence, and inclusion!
★★★★★
“Yeah!!..Finally a tool that has eliminated the frustration of tools attempted thus far: strongly holds object in place during actual use, comfortable in the average hand, accommodates various tools/objects and various sizes quickly and easily, durable, lightweight, allows so many kids with neuro problems to finally participate with their hands!!”
Diane Ryan, OTR/L, NDTA Instructor, International Speaker
Adaptive Equipment in Today’s Inclusive Classrooms
At its heart, a great classroom is about inclusion — not just placing students with different abilities side-by-side but ensuring everyone can participate. That’s where Universal Design for Learning (UDL) shines: offering multiple ways to engage, access, and express learning.
With growing numbers of students with disabilities in general education classrooms, teachers are adapting lessons constantly. Finding cost-effective, and durable adaptive equipment that has the versatility to work across many needs can be challenging.
Before we get into the solutions, let’s start with the basics…
What Is Adaptive Equipment?
Adaptive equipment refers to specialized tools and devices designed to help individuals with disabilities perform tasks they might otherwise find difficult or impossible. In classrooms, adaptive devices help students with disabilities participate in learning activities.
The Challenge with Adaptive Devices for Hand Support
Schools utilize various tools—from mobility aids and sensory supports to communication devices and visual aids. However, adaptive equipment for hand support is particularly essential for everyday classroom tasks such as:
- Writing and drawing
- Using classroom technology (tablets, styluses)
- Art activities and crafts
- Managing classroom materials
- Self-care tasks like eating and dressing
For students with cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, arthritis, developmental delays, or hand injuries, tasks requiring grip strength and dexterity present significant barriers to learning.
Traditional classroom solutions for these challenges typically include:
- Pencil grips: Simple rubber or foam attachments for writing tools
- Universal cuffs: Elastic or velcro bands that wrap around the hand to hold items
- Weighted utensils: Heavier tools to reduce tremors and provide sensory feedback
The Universal Problem with most Universal Cuffs
Among these solutions, universal cuffs should theoretically offer the most versatility. However, most traditional designs fail to support the hand arch and they typically work for either vertical OR horizontal holding—not both. They can inadvertently reinforce improper grasp patterns, often leading to discomfort, repetitive use injuries, and further deformities.
Plus most universal cuffs accommodate only a limited range of tool sizes, meaning schools need to purchase different adaptive aids for various activities.
That’s why we created the functionalhand®, to offer a revolutionary approach to the universal cuff that addresses the limitations of traditional universal cuffs.
The functionalhand® is the Ultimate Adaptive Teaching Tool
Assisting Students with Various Hand Disabilities to Independently Perform Activities of Daily Living and Learning
The functionalhand® is a uniquely designed universal cuff that helps students securely hold objects — from pencils to styluses to paintbrushes — even if they have limited grip strength, tremors, or structural challenges in their hands.
Unlike traditional elastic cuffs or rigid splints, the functionalhand® supports the natural arches of the hand, promoting biomechanical alignment. It allows for horizontal and vertical grasping, meaning students can use it for writing, drawing, crafting, using technology, and more — all without forcing their bodies into awkward, strained postures.
By giving students access to everyday teaching tools like markers, glue sticks, paint brushes, and even adaptive technology devices, the functionalhand® makes independent learning possible for children who would normally require hand over hand assistance to participate.
Plus the flexibility and versatility of the functionalhand® also means teachers won’t have to scramble to modify every single task.
We’re honored to be able to provide teachers, students, and adults with weak grips, tremors, and hand deformities with a device that’s not just practical — it’s empowering.
Adaptive Equipment Classroom: 3 Benefits of the functionalhand®
1. Helps to Develop Fine Motor Skills
As therapists, we always look for ways to support fine motor skill development naturally during classroom activities. Activities that use fine motor skills—such as writing, coloring, and using classroom manipulatives—are key to academic success and daily independence.
When a student struggles with a weak grip or hand deformity, tasks that require precision and strength can feel discouraging. The functionalhand® provides a stable foundation for practicing those skills safely and successfully.
Students no longer have to feel discouraged, and avoid tasks requiring them to hold utensils because they are difficult or require someone to do it for them. With the functional® hand they can fully engage — strengthening their hands, improving control, and boosting endurance over time.
It’s a simple but powerful way to nurture their abilities — and confidence!
2. Reduces Teacher Stress and Workload
We know the emotional weight teachers carry. Every accommodation takes time. Every modification adds complexity. It’s no wonder teacher stress and burnout are at all-time highs.
By having the right assistive devices available — like the functionalhand® — teachers spend less time scrambling for adaptations and more time focusing on teaching. Students can use the same materials as their peers with minimal setup, reducing the burden on the teacher and making transitions between activities smoother.
One tool. Countless uses. Real relief for hardworking teachers who want to support all their students without feeling overwhelmed.
3. Improves Students’ Quality of Life
Our hearts are so happy when we receive stories from our customers about students who are able to do something independently for the first time, like holding a stylus, writing their names, or completing a craft project.
When students with hand disabilities or special needs can independently engage in classroom activities, they aren’t just developing motor skills. They feel like they belong. Being able to work independently gives them dignity and confidence. They can see themselves as full participants, capable and valued.
The functionalhand® helps create those moments — every single day by
Students Gain Independence and Confidence in the Classroom Thanks to the functionalhand®
Real Classroom Success Stories
Here are some of the stories we’ve received from students and teachers about how the functionalhand® has transformed everyday moments inside and outside of the classroom.
These student success stories are rewarding to hear and remind us why having the right tools in the classroom matters so much.
Art Class Breakthrough: Silas’ Story
Before the functionalhand®, Silas, a student with cerebral palsy, struggled to grasp items of different sizes like writing utensils, toys, and art supplies. Now with the functionalhand® universal cuff, he is able to participate fully in creative classroom activities.
“Silas uses his functionalhand® to paint, write, glue, and draw. He’s even used it to hold his lollipop, dye Easter eggs, and hold onto action figures and toys for imaginative play! The possibilities are endless.”
Testimonial from Silas’ mom, Melly Brown
We love that one simple tool can open up a world of new opportunities for students to engage more fully in classroom life!
A Musical Milestone: Returning to the Violin
One young student who had struggled to hold her violin bow was able to play again with the support of the functionalhand®.
Our customers have found ways to use the functionalhand® in unique situations to make activities that once seemed impossible, possible again. It’s a testament to showing that music, creativity, and participation don’t have to be limited by physical challenges.
Promoting Inclusion in Group Games: Spinning the Fun
A boy who once had to sit on the sidelines because he couldn’t play the game, became the “spinner master” in a game of Twister with the help of the functionalhand® .
His ability to fully participate in the game turned a group activity into, joyful, and inclusive experience for everyone — a reminder that tiny adaptations can make a big difference.
Fewer Homework Headaches
Homework time is a struggle for many children. It’s even harder for students who can’t hold a pencil securely.
That changed for one student — and his mom, Maritza S., thanks to the functionalhand®.
“My son can do his homework now because of the functionalhand®.“
Maritza S.
We have discovered that small achievements, such as completing an assignment independently, often provide the greatest confidence boost for students with special needs.
The functionalhand® Adaptive Device Boosts Lunchtime Independence
A student wanted to sit with his peers at lunchtime and be independent but was having difficulty holding his milk. Using the functionalhand® around his milk carton allowed him to pick it up and drink without any assistance.
The functionalhand® is Teacher-Approved for Inclusive Classrooms
Here’s what a teacher named, Heather Goodsell, who sent us this comment about the impact using the functionalhand® has made in her classroom:
“This lets every child in the classroom use classroom supplies, regardless of their physical abilities.”
Heather Goodsell – Teacher
That’s exactly the environment we hope every student gets to experience. Every classroom should be a place where ability differences don’t limit opportunity.
Each one of these stories reminds us, when students have the right adaptive equipment and support, they don’t just participate — they gain confidence and thrive.
Do you have a functionalhand® testimonial, tip, or interesting use case that might help our audience?
Please share it with us here or tag us on Instagram @functionalhand!
The functionalhand® is a Cost-Effective Adaptive Device That Deserves a Place in Every Classroom
Schools often have to make tough budget decisions, especially when it comes to providing the right support tools for diverse learners. That’s why the functionalhand® is such a wise investment.
It is adjustable to hold items of various sizes and weights:
Whether your student needs assistance holding a small, lightweight item, like a pencil or something larger and heavier like a water bottle, the functionalhand® can handle it beautifully.
Instead of buying separate utensils, stylus holders, writing aids, and art adapters for every individual need, schools can use one piece of adaptive equipment that is versatile enough to fit a wide range of tools and activities — saving money and valuable classroom space.
It is not just flexible — it’s built to last and easy to clean:
The functionalhand® is made from high-quality, durable materials, including a marine-grade shock cord that holds up to daily use without wearing out. Unlike cheaper adaptive devices that need frequent replacing, the functionalhand® is designed for years of reliable performance.
It’s also dishwasher-safe, making it easy to clean and disinfect between uses — a crucial feature for maintaining hygiene in busy school environments.
It is also useful for students with temporary injuries:
Beyond students with permanent grasp challenges, the functionalhand® can support students with temporary hand injuries from sports, playground accidents, or surgeries.
Whether a student needs extra help for a few weeks or for the whole school year, the functionalhand® provides them with the ability to stay fully engaged in classroom activities without missing a beat.
By investing in the functionalhand® for your school, you aren’t just buying a device — you’re investing in accessibility, independence, and inclusion for every student who needs a little extra support to thrive.
Quick Look: How the functionalhand® Assists Teachers and Children with Special Needs
- Promotes Independence: Students complete writing, drawing, and technology activities independently.
- Develops Fine Motor Skills: Supports active grasping and healthy hand positioning.
- Reduces Teacher Stress: Saves time modifying lessons and preparing unique classroom materials for students with hand limitations.
- Provides teachers time by allowing students to work independently without hand over hand assistance to hold utensils.
- Encourages Inclusion: Enables students to participate alongside peers without standing out.
- Cost-Effective: One tool replaces multiple single-purpose devices.
Every inclusive classroom needs to have at least one functionalhand® (or more!) ready to empower students when they need it most.
How to Get Your Classroom Functional:
Get Adaptive Equipment Like the functionalhand® Universal Cuff!
If you’re ready to make your classroom more inclusive and support children with hand limitations in writing, drawing, painting, playing games, and more, the functionalhand® is a simple, effective, and practical place to start.
You can order the functionalhand® directly through our website here or through one of our many distributors listed on the functionalhand® web site.
One adaptive tool.
Countless applications.
Real savings for schools.
The functionalhand® is the cost-effective solution that helps create inclusive learning environments without breaking the budget.
If you have questions or would like guidance on integrating the functional hand into your classroom(s), please reach out. We’re always here to help you find the best solutions for your students.
Every student deserves the chance to participate, create, and feel like they belong. With the right tools — and the right heart — anything is possible.
❤️ — Celine and Linda
The functionalhand® will be at the Chicago Abilities Expo
Find us at the AE Corner booth on June 20-22 at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center. Check it out!
The functionalhand® universal cuff is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always read labels and consult with a licensed healthcare professional before making changes to your adaptive equipment routine.
About the Authors, Owners, and Inventors of the functionalhand®
Celine Rosati Skertich, PT, and Linda Merry, OT, each have over 35 years of experience empowering individuals with motor impairments improve postural control and functional independence. Linda specializes in creating custom tools for grasp deficits, inspiring their collaboration on the functionalhand®, an adaptive tool designed to support diverse grasp needs. Follow them for therapeutic tips on YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook.
