For those of you who have been following my blogs and story with Elizabeth, you know how much I recommend really knowing your child and how they “work.”
I have learned on my journey (with my daughter Elizabeth) that due to her special needs of Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) and Global Dyspraxia, some activities that would be fun for someone would actually be stressful for her and vice versa.
So knowing what your child likes and needs is so very important. Especially when you are trying to figure out a sensory diet for your child.
Some children need stimulation.
Some children need movement.
Some children need to be alone.
Some children need quiet.
If your child is like Elizabeth, they need that “quiet” after a busy morning or day. Finding activities that they can do during this time is important.
I know I have mentioned many sensory items in previous blogs and told you how our experience with them has been. Right now, Elizabeth is 21 years old. So her sensory break times in her sensory diet have changed as she has gotten older and more mature.
But one thing in them that is consistent is the need for quiet. I came across a toy that I think would be such a good fit for those who want to offer their child an activity that is calming but engaging during the quiet times.
It is called Shapes N’ Shadows. Think about shadow puppets. Now think about being able to create them in so many interesting ways. With our hands we are limited to certain, usually well known, shapes. But this has 25 pieces included that allows your child to make any shape they wish to create.
It is quiet.
Peaceful.
Entertaining.
And creative.
It is a pretty neat toy because it uses light from any source near it or a flashlight to shine through the screen and the shapes become shadows.
I can see a quiet, calm, room and a child sitting, quietly creating and enjoying the show of the “creature” they made.
Almost makes me take a deep breath as I relax while picturing this.
Something else it does is allow for some fine motor work as they manipulate the pieces on and off of the screen.
Will this fit everyone’s need? No, because no one item can do that. But if it sounds like a good thing for your child, please take a look at our site to read more about it.
Also, as winter is arriving and indoor activities become more of a focus, our site has so many fun and purposeful toys that may be of interest to you. so maybe take a look around.
I wish everyone a peaceful week.
Michele Gianetti author of “I Believe In You: A Mother and Daughter’s Special Journey” and “Emily’s Sister”
Special Needs Essentials Blog 