Claire, also affectionately known as “The Bear”, is the star of each collaboration, contributing in some way to each design or being the inspiration for their creation.  Claire is an AAC communicator who loves to be included. She uses eye gaze technology to support her communication, and also to support her access and creativity. 

Who is Barry? Good question! Barry is a nickname assigned to anyone who becomes a familiar fixture around these parts, and also the name used when we can’t recall someone’s name… so what better way to describe a unique combination of counterparts who will co-design with Claire. Each design description includes details of how the collaboration has unfolded, and what role Claire has played in the design process. 

Our vision for Barry and The Bear is that it gives Claire a way to express her creativity and that it provides multiple opportunities for her to develop her communication competence. Claire is learning about work and is discovering the value of contributing to her community by creating something meaningful. Through her experiences, she is building skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose. This micro-enterprise has already provided Claire and our family with so much more to chat about at home and in our communities, allowing us to raise awareness of things that are important to us and to share our vision for Claire.