While scouring websites looking for lists of
recommended toys, it’s important to remember the way you play with your
children and how you teach them to play can benefit them further than buying
the “perfect” toy. You can take a simple toy, such as a ball, and turn it into
a learning activity without them realizing it. Ex. “Look at this ball! It’s
round and bounces. I’m going to roll it to you. Can you roll it back to me?”
Within those short phrases you’ve now engaged your child in conversation,
initiated following directions, prompted attention to tasks and expanded
language input. Keep an eye out for toy guides that are specific for children
who have physical, cognitive or developmental disabilities this holiday season
from various stores.
The following websites are some of our favorite sources.
- Toys “R” Us, Inc. Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids: www.toysrus.com
- AblePlay toy
rating system for children of all abilities from National Lekotek Center: www.ableplay.org/
- Fat Brain Toys Special Needs Resource Center: www.fatbraintoys.com/special_needs/
Below are just a few ideas we came up with while searching these sites:
Playhouse/Tent Sometimes children enjoy to be in
their own space away from all other distractions. A place they can call their
own can make for a quiet place to relax, a place to build their imagination and
a fun hangout to share with others when desired. Play spaces like this can
build social skills and language abilities when interacting with others. Have a
child who needs sensory input? Fill the space with your child’s favorite
sensory items like :idget toys, soft blankets and other manipulatives. www.bedbathandbeyond.com
Coloring Alternatives Does your child need
assistance holding coloring utensils? Purchasing adaptive tools like these can
make coloring fun again for your child. Using these utensils can help your
child feel independent and in control of their creativity. parentingspecialneeds.org/
Hedbanz Looking for a game for the family that can
teach your child incognito? This question game of “What amI?”is played by
asking “yes” or “no” questions to :igure out if the picture on your head is an
animal, food or manmade object. The :irst player to guess what’s on their head
wins! This game helps to expand language and descriptions, builds inferential
thinking and initiates social exchanges. http://www.walmart.com/
Kinetic Sand Know a child that doesn’t prefer
certain textures like playdoh or regular sand? This magnetic sand might be the
answer for a fun, mess-free alternative. This sand never dies out and sticks
together without sticking to you. Place the sand in a container with a lid to
make for easy setup and cleanup. Press down the sand into a :lat surface and
use a :inger to practice writing letters and numbers. Or simply use the sand as
a stress relief and calming activity. www.fatbraintoys.com
By Kelly Dugan
Labels: Parents
