Dragonfly: Universal Access Resources / Play Tips / Beginning To Use Switch Adapted Toys With Children With Special Needs
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Beginning To Use Switch Adapted Toys With Children With Special Needs
By: Renata Bursten, Dragonfly Staff
Since some children are easily distracted, it is best to remove distractions and setup toys in a manner that will keep the child interested and focused. In order to make a switch adapted toy stand out from the rest of the environment during play, place dark colored toys on a light surface, such as a towel. Place light colored toys on a dark surface. This will make it easier for children to see the cause and effect of pressing the switch activating the toy. There are many switch adapted to choose from - ranging from a cuddly bunny to a fierce dinosaur!
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Speech Language Therapy: Beginning Assentive Communication Tip
Here is a tip for children with Cerebral Palsy and other conditions that can affect speech. Try placing two pictures of the two toys that are attached to the switch tops. By pairing the real object with the two dimensional picture, you help your child learn that flat pictures are symbols of the real thing. This is fun way to master an important first step towards using assentive communication and computers.