Complex learners require additional supports to help them engage in play and learning. Below are some basic items to help get started so that these special kiddos can make the most out of their play.
BE INTENTIONAL ABOUT SENSORY INPUT
Multi-sensory input is actually a complicated topic, only because there are times where it is beneficial to bundle multiple sensory experiences, but there are also times when limiting it to one or two is preferred. As a very broad overview, when introducing something new, it’s typically best to engage just one or two senses at a time. After a child is more familiar with an activity or object, then introduce more experiences in order to expand their capabilities.
LIMIT DISTRACTIONS
For complex learners, even seemingly simple tasks, such as exploring a few toy, can require an immense amount of both physical and mental exertion. So, when introducing a new toy or activity, consider the following:
- Limit physical demands by ensuring that the child is physically supported and comfortable, whether they’re in a wheelchair or sitting in an adaptive chair. The goal is to allow the child to focus their energy on the task at hand, rather than on their body.
- Limit visual distractions by displaying the object against a single-color background (typically white or black), such as a felt board which also reduces glare; and try to avoid peripheral distraction such as direct light sources.
- Limit audible distractions such as background music or even talking.
- Highlight the toy with good lighting; just make sure the light source is outside of the child’s direct gaze, otherwise the light itself will become a distraction. Items I suggest a directional light with a clip base that you can shine from behind your child (out of sight); this is good if trying to highlight a specific target. Or, a task lamp with swivel heads; just angle the light away from the eyes.
PARE STRENGTHS WITH WEAKNESSES
Although we want to limit distractions, there are benefits to paring a child’s strong skillset with a weaker skillset. According to Dr. Karen Pryor (PhD), a therapist that specializes in neuroplasticity, noted in her book, Ten Fingers Ten Toes Twenty Things Everyone Needs to Know: Neuroplasticity for Children, that paring a child’s strength with a weakness will enhance the weaker skill. In particular, she encourages the use of citrus scents during therapy sessions to improve cognitive development.
In addition, multiple studies have shown that smells enhance brain activity, learning and memory. One study done by UC Irvine in particular suggests that simply sleeping with scents improves overall memory (https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnins.2023.1200448/full). So, there are definitely benefits to intentionally introducing multiple sensory experiences during play.
Just one word of caution! Certain scents are not recommended for all children. For example, some scents have been known to trigger seizures. So, before starting any aroma therapy, discuss with your Pediatrician which essential oils are appropriate and safe for your child.
Below are some items that can be used to pair strong/weak skillsets, as well as engage the olfactory system:
- Smell: Essential Oil Scents and Easy Clean Diffuser
- Taste: Taste & Color (Soft Tip Spoons & Clear Bowls)
- Touch: Light-up Vibrating Massager
- Sight: Multi-Color Flashlight
- Sound: Light-up Music and Stories Toy
HAVE BATTERIES!
And lots of them. In our household, we go through a lot of batteries because, let’s be honest, the best toys tend to be electronic. They have lights, sounds and movement that all help engage children during play. So, if you can get at toy that’s rechargeable, that’s great!
However, I’ve personally found that rechargeable batteries are preferred over rechargeable toys, only because swapping out batteries on a dying toy is much quicker than waiting (possibly) several hours for a toy to recharge. So if you or a family you know doesn’t have rechargeable batteries and a charging station, gifting both of those things is probably the most useful and long lasting gift you can provide to a special needs family!
- AA Rechargeable and AAA Rechargeable Batteries
- AA and AAA Combo Charger
- Multi-USB Charger (with two USB Type A, two Type C, and one fast charger port)
USE ADJUSTABLE WORK AREAS
Our son has a tray on both his wheelchair and stander, but there have still been times when a set work area is needed. For one, the wheelchair and stander are often put at an incline, so having a separate work surface can provide a level area for toys. In addition, having an area that’s separate from equipment trays provides a place for fixed lighting and/or a tri-fold backdrop.
- Dual-height desk allows one surface area to be set specifically for wheelchair height, and another surface set at stander height; thus eliminating the need to adjust the table height throughout the day.
- Counter-top work area can be moved to different parts of the house, without the need to reset lighting and backdrop. Just move and use! One can quickly transition from playing in the living room to helping out in the kitchen. Use a computer monitor stand to hold both the lighting and plain backdrop, then just move it as needed, such as from the kitchen counter, dinning room table or desk. Just be sure not to attach anything tippy or too heavy!
- Portable floor desk is great for versatility. Use it on the floor, extend the height and use it from a chair, or disconnect the table from the base and use it as a tilted work surface. Because the versatile work surface is also designed to work at an angle, you can put a light table on top, a felt board, or a tablet!
HAVE FUN!
Of course, the most important thing to remember is to have fun. Studies also show that children learn faster and retain information better when it’s fun. Plus, it also creates special bonding moments as a family.
So have fun and thrive! For more helpful tips, please subscribe!