TIPS TO SELECT TOYS FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 17% of U.S. children ages 18 years and younger have a developmental disability. Play has an important role in the growth and development of children of all abilities, but it is particularly valuable for children with special needs. Through play, children with special needs develop cognitive, motor, and social skills in a fun and engaging way. Pediatric physical therapists help families set goals and develop strategies and ideas for play that focuses on the abilities of the child and the ways families can engage in play together. Choosing the right toy is a good place to start. Pediatric physical therapists recommend toys that promote physical, cognitive, or social development. Choosing the Right Toy First, identify the child’s play capability and consider his or her individual needs. Second, consider the skills that a toy can help expand or develop. The following tips are not all inclusive, but provide guidance on several popular conditions: For children who have difficulty communicating as a result of autism, select toys that encourage repetition of movements, have purpose, and promote activities that use both sides of the body together. Toys should not be battery operated or include lights or electronic sounds. Great examples like puzzles promote fine motor skills, communication, and problem solving. Activity cards and mats can help with cooperative planning and communication through movement. Findmore information@https://www.moveforwardpt.com/Resources/Detail/toys-children-with-special-needs
Toys that encourage repetition of activities • Shape sorters, peg boards, Light-Brite™ • Higher-level cards with pieces to form a shape • Plastic containers filled with everyday, household items • Aqua Sand • Trains
synergyidaho.com
Staff Spotlight
William Strong, M.S, CCC-SLP, Pediatric Speech Therapist
I’m excited to share my knowledge with you! I have a Master’s degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences (MS from Washington State University – Spokane), a foundation in psychology and linguistics (BS at University of Washington), and have worked with clients across the lifespan. I have treated clients in a variety of different settings including acute care, long term care, inpatient, outpatient, and schools. I also treat a variety of different impairments including speech, language, thinking, and swallowing. In pediatrics, I
have worked with students with hearing impairments, dyslexia, autism, Down syndrome, language delays, and speech sound disorders. I love building the bridge that helps us communicate and connect with others, starting with the individual sounds that make up words, to the organization of those words to communicate complex thoughts. When I’m not in the clinic, I’m likely exploring the outdoors with my family and searching for my next creative endeavor.
CDA (208) 666-0611
VALLEY (509) 413-1630
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