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Finding the Right Toys
 From the March 2001 Disabilities newsletter.Finding appropriate toys for children with disabilities can be a challenge. Should one pay attention to the chronological age recommendations, or make decisions based on a child's developmental level? When buying toys for children with physical limitations, how can a buyer make sure the child will be able to use the toy as designed? Diana Nielander, spokesperson for the National Lekotek Center, which provides guidelines and opportunities for play for children with disabilities, offers some suggestions. She emphasizes that toys should be accessible and adjustable. This means making sure that a toy can be used in different positions or spaces, such as on a wheelchair tray. Toys should also have adjustable sound or height levels, along with varying levels of ability required to operate the toy. An advantage to these toys, says Ms. Nielander, is that a child's skill levels can be challenged at a flexible pace. Another priority in choosing toys should be the toy's ability to appeal to the child's senses and interests. Ms. Nielander emphasizes that "kids with disabilities want to play with what they see around them, [toys that are] going to make them feel like any other kid." In other words, child care professionals, parents, and grandparents shouldn't shy away from the most popular and advertised toys, as long as children are intrigued by them. It is also important to consider a child's individual abilities and developmental level along with their chronological age, Ms. Nielander explains. She advises parents and grandparents to look at the age guidelines on a toy's package first and then consider the child's developmental level to determine if the toy is appropriate. Ms. Nielander cautions, "Just because a child plays at a 4-year-old level doesn't mean their physical strength is at that age level. Make sure a toy is safe for an older child." One common mistake that people buying toys for children with disabilities make, according to Ms. Nielander, is that "people get hung up on the box." Ms. Nielander points out that sometimes a toy's package will look exciting but the toy might not be that appropriate. She recommends that, whenever possible, buyers sample the toy before buying to see how the toy can be used. Ms. Nielander also emphasizes the importance of choosing toys that can facilitate play between a child with disabilities and his or her peers and siblings. Two questions that toy buyers must ask themselves are "will the child be an active participant, and will it encourage social interaction with other children?"
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