Since toys help children refine and develop their motor skills, the right toy for a child with cerebral palsy is very important. Children with this disability generally have motor skill issues so toys that help encourage movement and thinking are vital. They tend to have difficulty holding on to things and in most cases one side is stronger than the other. As such toys that can be handled using one hand are considered useful.
For coordination toys such as balls should be experimented with. While not all children with cerebral palsy will be able to catch or throw a ball, some can. There are many types to choose from, such as those that make sounds or glow in the dark. Magnetic toys and puzzles also help those children who have difficulty holding on to things.
For visual and mental stimulation one can rarely go wrong by choosing toys with flashing lights and sounds. Toys like these can be a hit with children of various ages regardless of the degree of disabilities they have. For both coordination and mental stimulation using colored beads and blocks that can be counted and moved should definitely be considered. Sometimes the simplest toys are the ones that children will enjoy the most.
In fact many toys can be made at home using items lying around such as cartons egg trays, and thread spools. Another inexpensive playtime option for children with cerebral palsy is good old play-doh. Playing with putty helps to develop hand strength and movement.
The degree to which cerebral palsy affects each child differs, so care should be taken when selecting appropriate toys. Most importantly, while toys that stimulate the mind and improve motor skills are encouraged, children with disabilities should get toys that they enjoy playing with.
Comments