The ToyBrary, created by The Collaborative for Family Education (TCFFE), is a mobile, community-based toy-lending and family engagement program serving Park, Teller, and El Paso Counties.
Through our ToyBrary trailer and community partnerships, we deliver high-quality toys, play-based learning materials, and family education directly to where families already are — neighborhoods, small childcare centers, home childcare programs, coffee shops, libraries, and after-school programs.
Our goal is simple but powerful: to make play accessible and meaningful for every child, while empowering parents, caregivers, and educators to understand how play builds communication, confidence, and lifelong learning.
Play is a child’s first language — it’s how they explore, communicate, and make sense of the world. Yet many families in rural areas face barriers to quality play experiences: limited access to early childhood centers, long travel distances, and few affordable resources.
The ToyBrary bridges that gap. We bring the toys, learning materials, and know-how to families and caregivers who need them most.
Because when children have the opportunity to play freely — and adults understand how to support that play — brains grow, relationships strengthen, and communities thrive.
The ToyBrary Trailer – Play on the Move (yes - we already have the trailer and 100s of books and toys)
Our ToyBrary trailer is a traveling play and learning center on wheels, fully stocked with developmentally appropriate toys, sensory bins, STEM kits, art supplies, and building materials. It visits schools, child care centers, neighborhoods, libraries, and community events throughout Park, Teller, and El Paso Counties — bringing joy, creativity, and connection to families who might not otherwise have access to these experiences.
Local “Play Stops” – Borrow and Learn
We’re building partnerships with local coffee shops, libraries, and community hubs to serve as ToyBrary satellite sites. Families can sign in, borrow toys, and check them back in during designated hours — turning familiar places into welcoming spaces for families to gather, learn, and connect.
Learning Through Play – Training & Video Resources
Every ToyBrary kit includes short training and informational videos (YouTube) that teach families and caregivers about child development, social-emotional skills, and the importance of play-based learning. Our bilingual (English/Spanish) videos and handouts help adults make the most of each toy, showing how simple play builds early math, language, fine-motor, and problem-solving skills.
After-School Enrichment in Rural Communities
Through partnerships with rural schools and community centers, ToyBrary also supports after-school programs that inspire creativity and collaboration. We offer enrichment clubs focused on robotics, building and engineering, coding, and creative arts, helping close the opportunity gap for students in smaller communities. (This we are starting already! We have connections with Canvas & Cartwheels to partner for afterschool and Saturday robotics / Lego workshops. We also sponsor a summer camp program!)
Looking Ahead: A 24-Hour Drop-In Play Center
Our long-term vision includes creating a 24-hour drop-in play and learning center — a safe, inclusive, and flexible space where families, therapists, and caregivers can gather anytime to explore, play, and connect. This space will feature themed play zones, sensory rooms, and accessible hours for working parents, early-intervention providers, and community partners.
Families and children (ages 0–15) across rural Teller and El Paso Counties
Home daycare providers seeking high-quality, rotating materials and professional support
Parents and caregivers eager to learn more about child development through play
Schools and after-school programs expanding STEM and enrichment options
Community hubs (coffee shops, libraries, churches) interested in hosting Play Stops
Therapists, educators, and social workers who use play as a tool for growth and connection
By bringing play directly to families and caregivers, the ToyBrary will:
Expand access to quality, developmentally appropriate toys for rural children
Increase caregiver confidence and knowledge about child development
Strengthen community relationships through shared play experiences
Foster early literacy, STEM, and problem-solving skills through hands-on learning
Support family mental health and bonding by promoting joyful, screen-free interaction
Build a foundation for a permanent community play and learning center
Partner with Us: Coffee shops, libraries, and community centers can become ToyBrary Play Stops.
Host the Trailer: Invite the ToyBrary to your school, childcare, or community event.
Donate or Sponsor HERE: Help us expand our collection from 100s to 1,000s, fund the next trailer, purchase a scan/reservation system, create a new interactive website, and build the 24-hour play center.
Volunteer: Assist with toy organization, family engagement events, or play-based workshops.
Every child deserves access to play, no matter where they live.
Join us in making that possible — one toy, one trailer visit, one joyful connection at a time.