Special Needs Toys for Cerebral Palsy
Special needs toys for cerebral palsy (aka adaptive toys) are toys built to meet the unique needs of kids with cerebral palsy. These children typically struggle with cognitive, physical and social development. They provide enjoyment and help overcome these hurdles effectively. Since all children with cerebral palsy are unique, so, the best special toys are the ones that resemble the potential, goals and interests of your kid. Let us explore the benefits of special needs toys for cerebral palsy and more.
Pros of Special Needs Toys for Cerebral Palsy
Some of the advantages of these toys are:
Physical Development
Toys with improved grip and extra-big switches make the play accessible to numerous special needs kids. It helps them practice diverse motor skills.
Emotional Development
These toys enhance their communication skills and express emotions freely. It increases independence and builds self-esteem in no time, which ultimately means improved emotional development.
Mental Development
When kids with CP play with special toys, they engage with the physical world. It even enhances their mental development along the side of their peers.
Inclusion
These toys can lead to considerable inclusion in recreational and other activities.
Boosts Social Engagement
Another benefit is that special needs toys for cerebral palsy boost their social and language skills. It even enhances the engagement of kids in social activities.
Best Sensory Toys for Cerebral Palsy | Sensory Toys that Help with Cerebral Palsy
Sensory toys are one of the special needs toys for cerebral palsy are built to stimulate one or multiple senses. They offer enjoyment and relaxation while helping them discover the world nearby them. It opens up numerous opportunities for cognitive growth and muscle development.
Examples of Sensory Toys for Cerebral Palsy
A few examples of sensory toys are:
Puzzles
Puzzles are toys that allow kids with CP to find the matching parts from a pattern/image. They build problem-solving skills, focus, visual skills and memory.
Kinetic Sand
Kinetic sand is sand that is soft and dry. It is also easy to shape and mould. It helps these children build eye-hand coordination, fine motor skills and great sensory experience.
Building Blocks
Building blocks are special toys that need to be linked or stacked to form diverse structures or shapes. They help those with cerebral palsy to develop logic, spatial skills, fine motor skills and imagination.
Musical Toys
Xylophones, drums and other musical toys generate sound when kids play with them. They are ideal for kids with CP because it helps them build language, auditory skills, creativity and rhythm.
How to Choose the Best Sensory Toys for Children with Cerebral Palsy?
When buying sensory toys for children with cerebral palsy, take into account these factors:
Motor Skill Development
Toys that encourage fine motor skills can be helpful. This could include toys with buttons, switches, or other elements that the child can manipulate.
Multi-sensory Ability
Choosing toys that help engage multiple senses simultaneously can be a good idea. They typically produce sounds, are bright in colour and have diverse textures.
Safety
Another crucial thing to note when buying sensory toys for cerebral palsy is safety. Try to avoid toys with tiny and sharp parts.
Engagement
Make sure the special needs toys for cerebral palsy you select are the ones that your kid wants to play with and are interested in. It provides joy and engages your kid.