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For more accessible play ideas, please visit “We Can Play” at www.ataccess.org Tel: 415-455-4575; TTY: 415-455-0491 Permission to copy for private or non-profit use only (rev 06/01) The Alliance for Technology Access presents… Rolling Along! Fun on Wheels The whole family can enjoy outings on bikes, trikes & other wheels, when you take advantage of some unique equipment & simple modifications. Who can benefit All ages, including children with developmental, physical or sensory challenges. Safety first All riders should wear helmets. Ask a physical therapist if your child’s neck can support a helmet, if pedaling is recommended, if special seating, hand grips or foot plates are needed, & for other tips on choosing & adapting a riding vehicle. What you’ll need A bike, trike, trailer, all- terrain wheelchair, etc. Properly fitted helmets for every rider (adults, too!) Additional materials to adapt seat, hand grips, pedals, etc., if needed Where to find it www.burley.com - trailers, tandems, trail-alongs, 800-311-5294. www.cycletote.com -bike trailers for special needs, 800-747-2407. www.angeles-group.com - tandem trikes, etc. for young kids, 800-346-6313. www.handcycling.com - info on hand-pedaled bikes. www.dragonflytoys.com - adapted bikes & parts, 800-308-2208. www.wheelchairnet.org - all about wheelchairs, 412-383-6586. www.wowusa.com - for kids, “Winners on Wheels,” 800-WOWTALK. Get ready! Explore bike trailers, trail-alongs, trikes, etc., by borrowing or renting before you buy. Try it first without your child, but with a similar weight in it, to feel how it handles, turns & brakes. If your child has physical challenges, consult a physical therapist about adding special seating, handles, safety belts, foot plates, or safety equipment. Along for the ride A child who cannot safely sit on or pedal a bike can ride along in a bike trailer. Take short or long rides with one or two passengers & gear. Trailers tow easily & do not affect your balance the way child bike seats can. Some have wind & rain covers. Ask about special seating! I can pedal, too If your child can sit on a bike & pedal but cannot ride independently or safely navigate traffic, try a trail-along bike which attaches behind an adult bike, turning it into a parent-child tandem. Conventional or special needs tandems work well for older riders with similar needs. A third or fourth wheel Try a three- or four wheeler or “pedi-cab” for one to four riders. Some offer comfortable chairs instead of saddles. Trikes for you & trikes for two Choose from a variety of accessible trikes & scooters. Options include a wide stable base, push handle for adults, a higher seat back, seat belt, hand pedals instead of foot pedals, modified hand grips or foot plates, & room for a passenger or cargo. Hit the trail or beach Take on trails, mud, beaches & other rough terrain in a specialized power or manual wheelchair with oversized wheels. Some models can fold, go in water or get sprayed clean with a hose. Let’s go! Give your child time to get used to both helmet & vehicle. Provide a safe, supervised area to ride. Start with a short ride, & bring along drinks & snacks for a quick picnic before coming home! (Do not give snacks or other choking hazards to children while riding!) Images: helmet ©2001, courtesy of discoveryschool.com; bikes © 2001, courtesy of K. Haugen.

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Page 1: Rolling Along! Fun on Wheelsblackriverot.weebly.com › uploads › 1 › 2 › 6 › 4 › 12645396 › ... · Try a three- or four wheeler or “pedi-cab” for one to four riders

For more accessible play ideas, please visit “We Can Play” at www.ataccess.org Tel: 415-455-4575; TTY: 415-455-0491Permission to copy for private or non-profit use only (rev 06/01)

The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Rolling Along! Fun on WheelsThe whole family can enjoy outings on bikes, trikes & other wheels, whenyou take advantage of some unique equipment & simple modifications.

Who can benefit

All ages, including childrenwith developmental, physicalor sensory challenges.

Safety first

All riders should wearhelmets. Ask a physicaltherapist if your child’s neckcan support a helmet, ifpedaling is recommended, ifspecial seating, hand grips orfoot plates are needed, & forother tips on choosing &adapting a riding vehicle.

What you’ll need

� A bike, trike, trailer, all-terrain wheelchair, etc.

� Properly fitted helmets forevery rider (adults, too!)

� Additional materials to adaptseat, hand grips, pedals,etc., if needed

Where to find it

� www.burley.com - trailers,tandems, trail-alongs,800-311-5294.

� www.cycletote.com -biketrailers for special needs,800-747-2407.

� www.angeles-group.com -tandem trikes, etc. for youngkids, 800-346-6313.

� www.handcycling.com - infoon hand-pedaled bikes.

� www.dragonflytoys.com -adapted bikes & parts,800-308-2208.

� www.wheelchairnet.org - allabout wheelchairs,412-383-6586.

� www.wowusa.com - for kids,“Winners on Wheels,”800-WOWTALK.

Get ready!Explore bike trailers, trail-alongs, trikes, etc., by borrowing or rentingbefore you buy. Try it first without your child, but with a similar weightin it, to feel how it handles, turns & brakes. If your child has physicalchallenges, consult a physical therapist about adding special seating,handles, safety belts, foot plates, or safety equipment.

Along for the ride

A child who cannot safely sit on orpedal a bike can ride along in abike trailer. Take short or long

rides with one or two passengers & gear. Trailerstow easily & do not affect your balance the way child bike seats can.Some have wind & rain covers. Ask about special seating!

I can pedal, too

If your child can sit on a bike & pedal but cannot ride independently orsafely navigate traffic, try a trail-along bike which attaches behind anadult bike, turning it into a parent-child tandem. Conventional orspecial needs tandems work well for older riders with similar needs.

A third or fourth wheel

Try a three- or four wheeler or “pedi-cab” for one to fourriders. Some offer comfortable chairs instead of saddles.

Trikes for you & trikes for two

Choose from a variety of accessible trikes & scooters.Options include a wide stable base, push handle for adults, a higherseat back, seat belt, hand pedals instead of foot pedals, modified handgrips or foot plates, & room for a passenger or cargo.

Hit the trail or beach

Take on trails, mud, beaches & other rough terrain in aspecialized power or manual wheelchair with oversized wheels.

Some models can fold, go in water or get sprayed clean with a hose.

Let’s go!Give your child time to get used to both helmet & vehicle. Provide asafe, supervised area to ride. Start with a short ride, & bring alongdrinks & snacks for a quick picnic before coming home! (Do not givesnacks or other choking hazards to children while riding!)

Images: helmet ©2001, courtesy of discoveryschool.com; bikes © 2001, courtesy of K.Haugen.

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For more accessible play ideas, please visit “We Can Play” at www.ataccess.org Tel: 415-455-4575; TTY: 415-455-0491Permission to copy for private or non-profit use only (rev 05/01)

The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Accessible Birthday Party IdeasYour child will actively enjoy birthday parties with these simple,accessible ideas for singing, blowing out candles and blowingbubbles.

Who can benefit

All ages, including childrenwith communication orphysical challenges.

Safety first

Take care using electricity orflames around children.

What you’ll need

Singing Happy Birthday� Tape player, AAC device,

talking greeting card orphoto frame, or toy whichsings “Happy Birthday”

� Switch & battery deviceadapter, as needed

Blowing out candles� Switch� Blow dryer

(or battery-power fan)� ECU (or battery device

adapter)

Blowing bubbles� Switch� Battery-power bubble blower� Battery device adapter

Where to find it

� AbleNet – ECU, switches,AAC devices, battery deviceadapter, 800-322-0956www.ablenetinc.com

� Birthday Express – onlineretailer specializing inbirthday supplies,800-424-7843www.birthdayexpress.com

� Boardman’s Birthday PartyIdeas – themes, tips, linksand more – all free.www.boardmanweb.com/party/index.htm

Sing Happy BirthdayGet ready! For kids with communication challenges, before the party,gather materials (left) and record a child singing “Happy Birthday toYou...” Place the birthday child’s photo on the switch, frame or card. Ifyou have an AAC device with more options, add questions andphrases: “Where’s the cake?” “I’m seven today!” and “Thanks! Justwhat I wanted!”

Let’s go! Give your child the switch (or talking frame or AAC device)and let her be the one to start the song.

Blow out the candlesGet ready! Plug a blow dryer and switch into the environmentalcontrol unit (ECU). Place the child’s switch where he can use it. Setthe blow dryer (or fan) on “low” and prop (or hold) it near the cake.

Let’s go! Light the candles! Your child can press the switch and blowall the candles out on the first try!

Blow bubbles – a cooperative activity

Get ready! Insert the battery adapter into the battery compartment ofyour bubble blower and plug the switch into the battery adapter. Leavethe bubble blower ON.

Let’s go! Place the switch so your child can use it easily. Have apartner dip the bubble blower into the bubble mix, then your child canpress the switch to blow the bubbles.

Let the games beginTo add to the festivities, check out other We Can Playideas. Choose accessible activities your child will enjoy,including “Splish Splash: Water Play,” “Accessible SandPlay,” “Creative Dance & Movement,” “Board Games forEveryone,” “Family Picnics & Parties,” “Playgrounds forEveryone,” “Playing with Paint,” and more!

Artwork ©2001 by discoveryschool.com, used by permission.

Page 3: Rolling Along! Fun on Wheelsblackriverot.weebly.com › uploads › 1 › 2 › 6 › 4 › 12645396 › ... · Try a three- or four wheeler or “pedi-cab” for one to four riders

For more accessible play ideas, please visit “We Can Play” at www.ataccess.org Tel: 415-455-4575; TTY: 415-455-0491Permission to copy for private or non-profit use only. (rev 06/01)

The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Board Games for EveryoneBoard games offer a great opportunity for family fun, forlearning to get along with others, and for developingstrategies and problem solving skills in a playful way.

Who can benefit

Ages 4 and up, includingchildren with communication,sensory, developmental orphysical challenges.

Safety first

Avoid small game pieces ifchildren might put them in theirmouths.

What you’ll need

� Favorite board games� All-Turn-It Spinner� Foam cubes� AAC Device, if needed� Magnets, fabric paint,

colored dot stickers,laminating material, etc., toadapt or make games

� Velcro, craft foam, fabricpaint and other materials toadd texture to game boards,tokens, dice, etc.

Where to find it

� AbleNet – ability switches,All-Turn-It spinner,communication devices.800-322-0956www.ablenetinc.com

� Adapting Board Games –Exceptional Parentmagazine article.201-634-6550www.eparent.com/toys/funandgames.htm

� Craft stores, fabric stores,discount chains, etc. –Velcro, craft foam, fabricpaint, hot glue gun, more.

Get ready!Quiet dice - Make quiet, easy-grip dice from foam cubes – any size!Use a marker or fabric paint to add dots, numbers, shapes, etc. Olderchildren can invent games and make their own dice.

Keep it simple - If a board game is too hard, change the rules! Makeyour own game with fewer cards, choices and spaces.

The big idea - If the board or cards are too small, redraw them byhand or computer, or enlarge them on a color photocopier andlaminate. Place a foam or felt disk on the corner of each card to helpseparate them.

Magnetic attraction - Look for games with magnetic pieces, or gluelarge, flat magnets onto the bottom of your playing pieces - this alsohelps pieces stay upright. Make a color photocopy of the game board,laminate it, then tape it to a large steel cookie tray.

All-Turn-It - Use a single switch to spin AbleNet’s innovative spinner(below). Make your own spinner face or use a ready-made one, likethe dice overlay. Make up fun new games in minutes using photos,vinyl stickers, etc.

A special touch - Add texture to dice, spinners and board gamesusing puffy paints, wicky sticks, adhesive craft foam, fabric, sandpaper, or Velcro. Putting fuzzy Velcro dots on each space andscratchy velcro dots on pieces helps them stay upright and give kids amulti-sensory way to count spaces.

Let’s go!Supporting “Roll”- Youdon’t need to know the rulesto play the game! Let onechild be the official dice rolleror game spinner.

Let’s Talk - Kids who do notspeak can use a simplecommunication board ordevice to explain rules, saywhose turn it is, or comment on the game.

Artwork: game players ©2001 by awesomeclipartforkids.com; All-Turn-It ©2001 byAbleNet, used by permission.

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For more accessible play ideas, please visit “We Can Play” at www.ataccess.org Tel: 415-455-4575; TTY: 415-455-0491Permission to copy for private or non-profit use only (rev 06/01)

The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Coping in the CarReady-to-go activities and organized spaces make riding in the car – or any travel – saferand more pleasant for everyone.

Who can benefit

Ages 3 to 8, including childrenwith communication, sensory,developmental or physicalchallenges.

Safety first

Always use car seats forchildren under 80 lbs andthose who need positioningsupport. Check with yourdoctor or store to insure yourcar seat is correctly installed.

What you’ll need

� Car caddies or organizers� Lap desk or tray� Sensory toys� Write & wipe pens� Write & wipe placemats� Magnets, stickers, rubber

stamps, markers, paper� Communication device

Where to find it

� Auto, craft, discount or officestores – trays, bins, caddies,clipboards, Velcro, etc.

� Discount School Supply –portable Velcro board andaccessories. 800-627-2829.www.earlychildhood.com

� Radio Shack – handheldtape players with built-inspeakers.

� Enabling Devices– switches, adapted toys,sensory centers, AACdevices. 800-832-8697,www.enablingdevices.com

Get ready!A firm foundation – Choose a safe car seat, be sure it’s installedcorrectly, and use it every time!

Everything in its place – Organize favorite toys and supplies incaddies or bins, or in organizers that hang on the seat back. Includetrash bags, extra batteries and a pack of wet wipes, too.

Lap Desk –Turn a steel baking pan or tray into a magnetic/write &wipe surface using glossy white spray paint. Raised edges keep thingsfrom rolling off. If needed, add a strip of fuzzy velcro along one side,and attach scratchy velcro to toys, markers, etc. Add 2 elastic loops tohold open the covers of a book. Velcro a flat beanbag or pillow under

the tray for extra stability and comfort.

Get creative – Include magnets, stickers, rubberstamps, markers, and maps, along with a pad ofpaper.

Retrieve it – Attach a short string to toys or markers. Fasten the otherend to the car seat or lap desk, so your child can retrieve what drops.

Switch on some fun – Look for switch accessible activity centers,toys and tape players. Mount an ability switch on the carseat, usingVelcro or duralock.

Let’s go!Tell me a story - Bring along tapes of favorite stories recorded byyou, grandparents or other favorite adults. Use a handheld tape playerwith a switch. Or, record lines from a favorite story in a communicationdevice so your child can press to play or sequence the story.Alternatively, let children enjoy recording and playing their own soundsand stories on a handheld tape player or communication device.

Great car games – Look for games and toys with few and simpleparts: MagnaDoodle drawing boards, rain sticks, marble mazes, beadtoys, yarn sewing cards, etc.

Reserve, rotate and wrap - Keep car toys interesting by offering onlya few at a time. Store others in the trunk for when you really needthem. For a surprise on extra long trips, quickly gift wrap snacks & toysin newspaper or in easy-to-open paper bags.

Puppet leader – Keep a puppet in the car so an adult passenger orolder sibling can tell a story or give instructions in a fun way.

Images: car ©2001, courtesy of K. Haugen; boy ©2001, courtesy ofdiscoveryschool.com.

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For more accessible play ideas, please visit “We Can Play” at www.ataccess.org Tel: 415-455-4575; TTY: 415-455-0491Permission to copy for private or non-profit use only (rev 06/01)

The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

What’s cooking?Everyone has a favorite food they like to prepare. Find ways to include everyone in theprocess!

Who can benefit

All ages, including childrenwith communication, sensory,developmental or physicalchallenges.

Safety first

Watch for heat or electricalappliances, keep children atsafe distances

What you’ll need

� Powerlink (from Ablenet)� Switch� AAC devices� Pouring device (from

Enabling Devices)� Picture symbols� Skid free mats

Where to find it

www.ablenetinc.comwww.enablingdevices.comTarget, Walmart or otherdiscount stores

Get ready!Gather food items and cooking supplies. Identify recipes andingredients. Prepare any picture symbols or AAC devices.

Let’s go!

Plan a meal

Talk about the parts of a healthy meal - something from

grain, a dairy product, fruits and vegetables, a protein food, etc.

Name or make pictures of examples that fit each category.

Let your child plan one meal a week. Your child's rule:

there must be one protein food, one green vegetable, another fruitor vegetable, one dairy product, etc.

Put ingredients for meal into AAC device. Have the child state eachitem while a grownup or other family member writes down what isnot in the cupboard for a shopping list.

Make a Meal

Put the steps for completing a recipe into an AAC device. As eachstep is done, the child can activate the device to tell a familymember what to do next.

Use picture symbols to illustrate each step of a recipe and allowchild to follow and help.

Plug electric equipment into the Powerlink and have child activateitem with a switch.

Use Enabling Devices Pouring cup with a switch to allow the childto particpate in pouring during recipes.

Use stools or high chairs to provide access to sink and countertopsduring cooking. Be sure that safety of the child is in place bystrapping in or using trays during cooking activity.

Stabilize bowls and other equipment on countertops or tables usingskid free mats, found at WalMart or Target.

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For more accessible play ideas, please visit “We Can Play” at www.ataccess.org Tel: 415-455-4575; TTY: 415-455-0491Permission to copy for private or non-profit use only (rev 05/01)

The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Costume CapersLet your imagination run wild with dress-ups – with the righttouches, you can be a fire fighter, actor, fairy, doctor, or trick-or-treater!

Who can benefit

All ages, including childrenwith communication, sensory,developmental or physicalchallenges.

Safety first

Make certain costumes do notchoke or bind. If using awheelchair, be sure costumeparts won’t get caught inwheels or moving parts.

What you’ll need

� Cardboard, fabric, duct tape,paint

� Hot glue gun, Velcro, elastic,� Polaroid camera, hand

mirror� AAC device, or a toy that

plays back a voice recording

Where to find it

� Bridge School – greatcostume ideas for kids whouse wheelchairs,www.bridgeschool.org/about/about_halloween.html

� Costume ideas incorporatingcrutches, canes orwheelchairs,http://backandneck.about.com/health/backandneck/library/weekly/aa1016b.htm

� Craft & Fabric Stores –Velcro, fabric, fabric paints,hot glue gun, film, etc.

� Discount & Toy Stores –costumes, face paint, toysthat play back voicerecordings

Get ready!Picture it

Help your child pick a costume by looking at dolls, photos, favoritebooks or puppets.

Easy on, easy off

Use Velcro to make costumes easy to put on or take off. Make armholes larger so costumes can fit over regular clothing. Use lightelastic at legs and wrists for a “custom fit.”

More power to you

If your child uses a wheelchair, have fun with it! Use cardboard tobuild a train, bulldozer, jack-in-the-box, etc. Visit the web sites at leftfor more ideas.

To a “tee”

If your child won’t enjoy an elaborate costume, use fabric paints todecorate a plain tee-shirt, or just wear a fun hat. Use white paint ona black t-shirt to make a skeleton or tuxedo. Paint a stethoscopeand red cross on a white t-shirt to become a doctor or nurse. Tryglow-in-the-dark paint for a special touch.

Finishing touches

If your child has a visual impairment, pick or make costumes withlots of texture. You can quickly add details with “puffy paint” from acraft store (needs to dry overnight!).

Be sure to include glasses (no lenses), hats, gloves, scarves, facepaints, necklaces. Test face paints and other makeup on yourself tomake sure it’s both comfortable and easy to wash off.

Let’s go!Say “cheese!”

Keep a mirror or Polaroid camera on hand for dress up time.

Let’s talk

Add a talking picture frame or AAC device to your costume. Be sureto record fun sound effects as well as things to say.

Artwork: child in costume ©2001 by awesomeclipartforkids.com; glasses ©2001,by discoveryschool.com; used by permission.

Page 7: Rolling Along! Fun on Wheelsblackriverot.weebly.com › uploads › 1 › 2 › 6 › 4 › 12645396 › ... · Try a three- or four wheeler or “pedi-cab” for one to four riders

For more accessible play ideas, please visit “We Can Play” at www.ataccess.org Tel: 415-455-4575; TTY: 415-455-0491Permission to copy for private or non-profit use only (rev 06/01)

The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Creative Dance & MovementThrough moving, we learn about our bodies, the space around us and eachother. Creative movement activities encourage all children to participate.

Who can benefit

All ages, including childrenwith communication, sensory,developmental or physicalchallenges.

Safety first

Provide a safe play space formovement activities, includingmats on the floor, if needed.Consult a doctor or physicaltherapist about individualprecautions or limitations.

What you’ll need

� Open space� Floor mats� Variety of music &

instruments� CD or tape player (adapted

with a switch, if needed)� Rope & masking tape� Simple stories and rhymes� Musical mats� Bubble wrap� Props, such as streamers,

balloons, bubbles, etc.� AAC device &/or switch, if

needed

Where to find it

� Children’s Music Web –music for and by kids.www.childrensmusic.org

� Dance & Movement TherapyLinks –http://users.erols.com/leopold/DanceMovement.htm

� Yoga for the Special Child –www.specialyoga.com

� Dance and Your Child – tipson dance & dance classes,from the NationalEndowment for the Arts.http://npin.org/library/pre1998/n00228/n00228.html

Feel the musicGet ready! Tape a variety of music – with words and without, softrhythms and strong beats, jazzy, classical, popular, and folksy.

Let’s go! Play the music and encourage children to move with it asthey stand, lay down, or sit in a wheelchair, swing or rocking chair.

On lineGet ready! Tape a rope to the floor in waves, zig zags, circles, etc.

Let’s go! Children move along the lines with or without a blindfold, orlie down inside or around the shapes. Providing a path you can feelhelps include children with visual impairments in movement activities.

No-obstacle courseGet ready! Hang curtains, streamers, balloons, and other light objectsat different heights from the ceiling, like a maze or in free form.

Let’s go! Children freely move through the streamers, bump balloons,follow curtains, etc. Try a game of Follow the Leader or Simon Says.

Storied danceLet’s go! Tell or read a simple, familiar story or rhyme. Tell it again,and invite each child to do hand motions or act it out.

Noisy feet, noisy wheelsGet ready! Find a toy mat that makes music or sounds when you stepon it, or acquire lots of “bubble wrap” packing material.

Let’s go! Tape play mats or bubble wrap to the floor. Let kids run androll over it to make lots of noise! (Stop if the noise frightens your child.)

Moving wordsGet ready! Make a list or pictures of active or descriptive words, likesticky, sleepy, old, fast, excited, sad, etc.

Let’s go! Call or show a word and have children act it out. Then onechild can act out a word while others guess what it is.

Artwork ©2001 by discoveryschool.com, used by permission.

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For more accessible play ideas, please visit “We Can Play” at www.ataccess.org Tel: 415-455-4575; TTY: 415-455-0491Permission to copy for private or non-profit use only (rev 06/01)

The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Dolls & Stuffed AnimalsDolls and stuffed animals invite roll play and imagination, when kidsexplore their ideas and feelings about themselves and others.

Who can benefit

Ages 0 to 7, including childrenwith communication, sensory,developmental or physicalchallenges.

Safety first

Avoid dolls and toys with smallor loose parts (buttons,ribbons, etc.) that could bechoking hazards.

What you’ll need

� Dolls, bears, etc.� Easy doll clothing with

Velcro or loose elastic� Pictures of the doll’s outfits� Communication aid or AAC

device, if needed

Where to find it

� AbleNet – switches, AACdevices, battery deviceadapter,800-322-0956www.ablenetinc.com

� Creative EducationalSurplus – tempo loop fabric,800-886-6428www.creativesurplus.com

� Honey the Signing Bear –805-647-0609www.quietbear.com

Just like meSome kids with disabilities enjoy dolls with a similar appearance orgear. Many educational suppliers offer dolls with glasses, wheelchairs,hearing aids, walkers, etc. A few companies offer dolls with DownSyndrome. Invite your child’s school or daycare to include a variety ofdolls in dramatic play areas.

Use a digital photo and iron-on kits for inkjet printers to make a rag dollor puppet with a photographic image of your child’s face.

A sign of the timesHoney the Signing Bear sits on your lap, facing your child. You slideyour hands into the bear’s to sign and play with your child.

Say what?Dolls or animals that talk when you hug them or squeeze a hand are abonus for children with visual impairments or speech delays.

Now you’re talkingLet your child use pictures or an AAC device to choose what a doll willwear or do, or to have a conversation with the doll.

Bath timeMany children enjoy bathing their dolls. A terrycloth bath mitt with asewn-in soap pocket makes it easier. To wash the doll’s hair, add aswitch and battery device adapter to a battery operated squirting toy.

Sing alongSing songs as you play with dolls or animals to describe what you’redoing, “This is the way we feed the baby, …so early in the morning!”Use an AAC device, if needed.

Puppet playFor puppetry ideas, see “Puppet Pandemonium” from We Can Play.

Artwork ©2001 by discoveryschool.com, used by permission.

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The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Grocery Shopping with KidsShopping with any child can be difficult, but simple materials andactivities make grocery shopping with kids not just doable, but fun!

Who can benefit

Ages 3 and older, includingchildren with communication,sensory, developmental orphysical challenges.

Safety first

Always use shopping cart seatbelts; keep your child with youat all times in the store.

What you’ll need

� Pictures or models of foodsyou buy

� Laminating material� Scissors� Plastic baseball card holders

or pocket photo album� AAC device� Food pyramid or chart� Tape player, tapes, special

toys just for shopping trips� Child’s seat insert for

shopping cart

Where to find it

� Tips for Shopping with YourChild – more ideas andsurvival strategies.www.kidsource.com/kidsource/content/shopping_tips.html

� A few shopping cart seatinserts – www.buggybagg.netwww.buggybuddy.comwww.cyberbabymall.com/liners.htm (888-482-9237).www.floppyseat.com

� Shopping cart safety –www.ccsafekids.com/shopping.htm

Picture itGet ready! Make a picture shopping list with your child. Cut picturesfrom the newspaper, and laminate to use over & over. Slide pictures ofwhat you need into a photo album or clear baseball card pages. Or,place the pictures on your child’s AAC device and record names orphrases for each. For children with visual impairments, record your liston a tape or collect toy food items in a box or bag.

Let’s go! Help your child match the pictures (or toys) to the things youput in the cart. Cover or remove the pictures as you find each item.

Healthy choicesGet ready! Before shopping, talk about healthy food and treats.Decide on a number (say, 3 or 5) of healthy foods your child mustchoose before picking a treat.

Let’s go! Help your child keep count of the healthy choices made,then choose an acceptable dessert or treat.

Sitting prettyGet ready! Look for shopping cart seat liners, made from quilted fabricand Velcro, that give your child more stability, add toy pockets, pillows,seat belts, and provide a more sanitary place to ride, or even chew!Some parent just add a coat or a couple rolls of paper towels to eitherside of their child; others have adapted plastic seats as an insert.

Let’s go! Always use a safety belt with any seating strategy. Clean theshopping cart handle with a wet wipe before your child starts to chew!

Pocket toysGet ready! Keep a collection of special all-in-one toys in your trunk.Examples: Pocket MagnaDoodle, walkman and stories or songs ontape, talking books, favorite chunky books, bead toys.

Let’s go! Let your child choose a toy or tape tobring into the store. Put it back in the trunk aftereach shopping trip.

Images ©2001, courtesy of discoveryschool.com.

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The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Music Maestro!

Creating music is not only fun but increases self-esteem and offers creative outlets. Let the musicbegin!

Who can benefit

All ages, including childrenwith communication, sensory,developmental or physicalchallenges.

Safety first

Watch for small parts on someinstruments.

What you’ll need

� Musical instruments

� Musical toys

� pictures of musicalinstruments

� pre-recorded sounds frominstruments if actualinstruments are unavailable

Where to find it

Switch in time softwarehttp://www.switchintime.com/

Switch-activated Drum andBellshttp://www.enablingdevices.com/

Boardmaker picture symbolswww.mayer-johnson.com

Musical toyswww.smarterkids.com

Toys: Sparkling SymphonyCompose and Play Orchestra

Get ready!

Record instrument sounds

Gather pictures of instruments

Introduce instruments for familiarity

Let’s go!Strike up the band!

Strap striking tool for xylophone to velcro strap across wrist and useswiping motion to play. Guitars can be positioned horizontally foreasy playing while someone else holds down strings. Violin or harpcan be propped vertically for easy playing.

Stabilize guitar toy to table or tray with velcro. Use a glove andvelcro the guitar pick into glove for use during play while wearingthe glove. Sweatbands and velcro can also make adapted holdersfor picks.

Record in samples of musical instruments into communicationdevices, either sounds or short licks from songs to play along.

Add key extenders made from plexiglass to keys on keyboards.

Insert a knob between fingers for activating keys on keyboard. Mayneed to attach to velcro strap or glove for additional stabilization.

Hey, What’s that Sound?

Match the sounds with pictures of instruments, use AAC devicesand communication symbols to identify. Use either recordedsounds of instruments or download from the internet.

Play sampled sounds and locate the corresponding instrumentpicture using the All Turn It.

Give clues about what an instrument looks like or sounds like, andhave students respond with AAC device or picture symbols

http://www.musicforkids.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=MFK&Category_Code=toys

http://www.fisher-price.com/us/products

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The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Playing with PaintUnique tools and strategies make painting accessible and fun for all, whetheralone or together. Enjoy both the process and the results!

Who can benefit

All ages, including childrenwith communication, sensory,developmental or physicalchallenges.

Safety first

Use non-toxic, washable paint.

What you’ll need

� Non-toxic paint� Brushes & sponges with

varied handles & grips� Velcro, foam, & tape for

adapting brushes� Easel, slant board or other

surface; clips & tape� Paint smocks or old shirts� Swirl-n-paint, battery device

adapter, & ability switch

Where to find it

� AbleNet – switches, batterydevice adapter, swirl-n-paint& fan. 800-322-0956www.ablenetinc.com

� Blo-Pens –www.blopens.com

� Discount Education Supply– Biocolor & Colorationspaints, great ideas, paintbrushes, stencils & supplieswww.earlychildhood.com

� Very Special Arts – involvingpeople with disabilities in thearts, 800-933-8721, TTY:202-737-0645,www.vsarts.org/

� Wisconsin Assistive Tech.Initiative – adaptivetechnology & art, www.wati.org/assistiveart.html

� Zot Artz – fun, accessible arttools & activities,877-851-3129www.zotartz.com

Get ready!Find a spot where a mess won’t matter – outdoors is great! Providepaint smocks or old shirts. Clip on an old shower curtain to protectwheelchairs or other special equipment. Use ziplock bags to protectsmaller items like AAC devices.

A six-cup muffin tin makes a good stable paint tray. Considerpainting on an easel, a tabletop or even the floor or sidewalk.

Choose among the ideas below, and gather materials. Have sponges,dish pans, soap & towels on hand for a fun clean-up.

Let’s go!Get a grip - Look for different handles: rounded, stubby, long, etc.Stick the handle through a foam ball, make a T-shaped grip from PVCpipe, or add a Velcro wrist strap.

More wacky brushes - Dip a ball or Koosh ball in paint and roll itaround in a tray. Paint with furry, fuzzy or bumpy gloves (or socks!).Stamp a painting with sponge cut-outs, adding handles if needed. Fill asoap handle sponge with paint.

Rolling along - Try adapted rollers and creative ideas from Zot Artz(left). Create a design, wrap it around a roller, ink it up, and attach it toa wheel chair or push it like a mower to create huge, abstract murals.

In the driver’s seat - Attach a marker, brush or roller to a remotecontrol car so the tip drags on the ground. Drive the car on butcherpaper to draw a picture.

Going for a spin - Connect a Swirl-n-paint to an ability switch using abattery device adapter. One child presses the switch to spin whileanother drips paint.

Blowin’ in the wind - Try Blo Pens or blow paint across paper withstraws or with a switch-adapted fan.

Just add bubbles - Pour paint in a shallow pan. Add liquid soap. Blowbubbles with a mixer or straw (be careful not to sip!). Press paper onthe bubbles to make a print. Great for cards or wrapping paper!

Match your theme - Use any of the ideas above with thematicstencils, paper cut-outs and colors to match.

In good taste - Finger paint with pudding! Wash hands. Makepudding, then finger paint with it on a contrasting color tray. Optional:swirl in color using food coloring, jello mix or fruit drink powder.

Images ©2001 by discoveryschool.com; used by permission.

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The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Family Picnics and PartiesLarge family picnics and outdoor events build a sense of community in a casual fun way.Or, prepare ahead for simple picnics on the run!

Who can benefit

Ages 3 and up, includingchildren with communication,sensory, developmental orphysical challenges.

Safety first

Host picnics and other outdoorevents in gated areas or awayfrom traffic. Preview sites foraccessibility, safe parking,phones and restrooms.Supervise swim areas at alltimes. Wear nametags ormatching T-shirts. Establish abuddy system and “I’m lost”plan with all children; tape,write or sew ID info insideshirts; supervise all childrenclosely, note what each iswearing and carry theirphotos with you.

What you’ll need

� Polaroid I-Zone camera(s)� Blank book or

communication board� Fling Sock or other toys� Instant Picnic Kit (right)� Favorite sports & game

equipment (frisbee, etc.)

Where to find it

� Family.com – recipes, agame finder link, and more.www.family.com

� Fun Attic – toys and gameideas, including the FlingSock, 616-559-3642 (877-293-5315 for orders).www.funattic.com

� Games Kids Play – onlineideas for great kid games.www.gameskidsplay.net

Get ready!Be prepared – Review the outdoor safety information (left), andprepare as needed.

Picnic on the run – Keep an “instant picnic kit” packed in a smallcooler or box in your car: sunscreen, bug repellant, first aid kit, bottledwater, a change of clothes for your child, picnic blanket, bubbles,umbrella, etc.

For a deluxe kit, add: napkins, cups, plates, utensils, juice boxes, smallpacks of ketchup, mustard, etc., individually wrapped snack foods,disposable wipes and/or instant hand cleaner, uninflated beach ball,frisbee, etc. Pick up sandwiches, fruit & ice, and go!

Make a menu – Children can help select a picnic menu if you givethem a pre-approved set of menu choices. To simplify, a child canchoose from two or three pictures at a time.

Get ready for games – review web sites (left) to search for terrificfamily games, and fun variations.

I get around – If your child uses a wheelchair, see the We Can Play“Rolling Along” activity for outdoor mobility ideas.

Let’s go!Instant memories – Bring along a Polaroid I-Zone camera with stickerfilm to make an instant memory book, picture guest book, or even acommunication aid. Have guests write or draw something next to theirpictures and make color photocopies as a keepsake to share. Stick asequence of photos onto index cards, and use them for storytelling orsequencing games.

Have a fling – Try a Fling Sock (left) – a ball with a long tail – for easythrows and catches. Visit FunAttic.com for great game ideas.

Play it again – Bring a video camera or tape recorder to record theevent’s activities or greetings from guests. Take the opportunity torecord family stories, especially from older relatives. Replay the tapesafterwards at a family movie night.

More ideasAdd to your picnic fun with other We Can Playactivities: Splish Splash, Accessible Sand Play,

Playgrounds for Everyone, Playing with Paint, and Travel Time.

Images ©2001, courtesy of discoverschool.com.

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The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Play Dough ArtsCreating with clay a relaxing way to explore and create. Try these activities!

Who can benefit

All ages, including childrenwith communication, sensory,developmental or physicalchallenges.

Safety first

Make sure materials are non-toxic in case they end up inlittle mouths. Wash out emptycans and bottles to be coveredby decorative dough andwatch for rough edges oncans. If clay must be baked,keep small children from hotoven.

What you’ll need

� Variety of playdoughmaterials

� Cans, empty boxes(kleenex, food cans,etc)

� Cookie cutters, rolling pins,cake molds and cutting tools

� Styrofoam for models tocover and to create cutters

� Cardboard to create cookiecutter shapes

Where to find it

Local toy and art storesPlaydoh™ Fun Factory andother moldshttp://www.10wizard.com/tg.shtml?sq=play-dohRecipeshttp://www.uvm.edu/~mjlynch/Modeling tools and clayhttp://www.dickblick.com/categories/polymerclays/Model Magic™www.crayola.com

Get ready!Make your own playdough and use food coloring for different colors

Gather playdough and tools for creating

Clear a space and cover with a plastic cloth if not a washablesurface.

Let’s go!Cover it up

Take cans, bottles, switch plates or other recycled containers andcover with decorative bits of playdough. Cut stryofoam into shapesand mount vertically onto boards or other surfaces to provide stablebase for adding clay to shapes.

Make a name for yourself!

Use alphabet shapes or cookie cutters to cut names from dough. Ifthe dough can be baked or hardened, allow to dry for nameplates.

Mold it

Use cake molds or other small cooking molds to make imprints andadd decorations. Use Playdoh™ Fun Factory or other molds fromtoy stores to create different shapes and characters. Adding dowelsto molds can help with gripping and picking up. Be careful whendrilling into plastic to insert dowel rods, some plastic will crack orshatter.

Scent it

Follow these directions for adding sensory cues to playdoh

http://teachers.net/lessons/posts/1648.html

Use unsweetened drink mixes to flavor dough.

Wear It

Mount straws vertically onto cookie sheet or board with smallamount of clay dough. Form small balls of clay and pierce ontostraws to create beads. Allow to harden and string into jewelry.Create multicolored beads by making strings of different coloredclay. Roll strings together to mix colors and cut into small pieces.Roll small pieces into balls and insert onto straws.

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The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Playgrounds for EveryoneOutdoor play gives kids opportunities to move their bodies, explore openspaces and try new things. Consider these accessible options.

Who can benefit

All ages, including childrenwith communication, sensory,developmental or physicalchallenges.

Safety first

Children should be supervisedat all times. Consult a doctoror Physical Therapist aboutadaptations for your child.

Consult safety regulations forplay structures. Avoid CCA-treated wood which releasesarsenic into the soil.

What you’ll need

� Adapted playgroundequipment or accessories(see below)

� Large bucket and sand for“basketball bounce”

� Rope� Air Phones: 2” diameter

plastic tubing, 2 funnels, 12”cable ties, mesh.

� Boards of varying sizes forbalance beams

Where to find it

� Accessible PlaygroundEquipment – a list ofvendors who sell accessibleoutdoor equipment. 800-352-1137www.playgrounddirectory.com/accessible.htm

� HAPA – a model programfor accessible playgroundsin England.www.hants.gov.uk/istcclr/cch33063.html

Get ready!Get into the swing – Swings are available for children of allabilities. Platform swings accommodate wheelchairs. Other swingsenable a child to lean back or even lay down. Porch swings allow achild to join an adult or friend for a gentle, comforting ride.

Slide on in – Slides can be steep or shallow, narrow or wide. Aslide on a gentle downhill slope is safer to get on and slide downthan one with a ladder and platform. Children who are not ready toslide can still roll cars, balls or dolls down a slide.

Sand Play – Add a low bench with a back rest to your sandbox.Put a sand table high enough for children who use wheelchairsnearby. Kids will enjoy moving sand from one area to the other.

Hoops – Install an easily adjustable basketball hoop at shoulderheight to begin with. Or try bouncing basketballs into a large bucketweighted with a little sand.

Tow the line – For a child with a visual impairment, make tactiletrails from one part of the playground to another. For a quick fix, tiea rope for a child to follow, if it doesn’t cut across where others run.Paved or hard packed trails are needed for kids using wheelchairs.

Now hear this – Encourage communication and cooperative playwith a simple air phone. Install a long 2” tube underground, clampeach end to the poles of your climber, attach a funnel to each end,and insert mesh over the opening to keep out sand.

In the balance – Include balance beams of various widths andheights. Start with a 2x12 board flat on the ground. A child in awheelchair can roll between parallel ropes placed on the ground.

Let’s go!Play ball – Suspend a ball on a rope from a bar or branch so achild can practice batting

Follow the leader – Don’t push any childbeyond their abilities. Instead, offer newopportunities to explore within their owncomfort level. Rather than teaching a skilldirectly, try incorporating it into a motivatinggame, like Simon Says, or Follow the Leader.

Artwork ©2001 by discoveryschool.com, used bypermission.

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The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Puppet PandemoniumPuppets let children explore new roles and activities in a non-threatening,creative way, and are easy to adapt for all children.

Who can benefit

Ages 3 to 8, including childrenwith communication, sensory,developmental or physicalchallenges.

Safety first

Avoid small parts or longstrings that could be chokinghazards.

What you’ll need

� Variety of puppets� Velcro fabric, socks or

mittens, for puppet bodies� Felt, craft foam, Velcro dots,

fabric pens, photos, etc. forpuppet features

� Tape player, talking frame orAAC device; optional: switchand battery device adapter

� I Can Go puppet stand� Puppet stage (or cardboard,

tape, knife & paint to makeyour own)

Where to find it

� Assistech, Inc. – adaptivepuppetry equipment andscript kits. 716-789-4197.www.assisttech.com/

� Discount School Supply –puppets, Velcro fabric &crafts. 800-627-2829.www.earlychildhood.com

� Folkmanis Puppets –beautiful, realistic animalpuppets. 800-443-4463.www.Folkmanis.com/

Make a puppetGet ready! Create blank puppets from velcro fabric, woolen mittens, orsocks. Sew or glue on fuzzy velcro dots, if needed. Make a variety ofeyes, noses, mouths, ears, horns, wigs, wings, etc. from felt or craftfoam, or cut out features from photos or old magazines and laminate.Add a scratchy velcro dot to the back of each feature. Make featureswith different textures or puffy paints for kids with visual impairments.

Let’s go! Kids can choose features to put on each puppet. To simplify,give just a few choices for eyes, then the nose, then the mouth, etc.For a “crazy face,” place random features velcro side up on the table,let your child press the puppet down, lift and laugh at the silly results!

Parent puppeteersGet ready! Consider using a puppet to interact with your child ingames and learning activities, or even when giving instructions. Somekids are more inclined to play with or listen to a puppet!

Let’s go! Pick a favorite puppet, pop your hand over the edge of thetable, and starting talking! Hand things to your child, help him trackobjects, model an activity, or talk him through dressing himself.

Behind the scenesGet ready! Buy a puppet stage or make one (left) from three sides of acardboard box. Tape the box flaps to the floor or table, cut a hole in thecenter, and add a curtain on a dowel poked through the two sides.

Let’s go! Line up an audience of dolls and stuffed animals. Friendsand family members can take turns being the puppeteers.

Now you’re talkingGet ready! For kids who struggle to talk, make a recording on a tapeplayer, talking photo frame or AAC device. Add a battery deviceadapter and switch, if needed.

Let’s go! Place the frame, device or switch in easy reach, so yourchild can help the puppet talk.

Rock ‘n’ spinGet ready! If your child cannot move a puppet, try a rocking orspinning base operated by a switch, like the one from Assistech, Inc.

Let’s go! Put the puppet on the stand, and give your child the switch.

Artwork ©2001 by K. Haugen; used by permission.

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The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Puzzle ManiaAny child can do a puzzle, given the right support. Puzzles buildspatial awareness and logical thinking, and reinforce concepts suchas letters, numbers, shapes & themes.

Who can play

Ages 3 and up, includingchildren with sensory,developmental or physicalchallenges.

Safety first

� Small puzzle pieces may bea choking hazard.

� Choose a non-toxic finish ifyour child might suck on orchew pieces.

What you’ll need

� A puzzle style with a favoritetheme & design (see“Choose a puzzle,” right)

� Materials to modify a puzzle,including knobs, glue, puffypaint, Velcro, magnets, etc.

� Specialty puzzles, includingmusical form boards andpuzzle software

Where to find it

� Lakeshore – educationalform boards, inset puzzles,800-421-5354,www.lakeshorelearning.com

� Dragonfly Toys – toys &games for special needs,800-308-2208www.dragonflytoys.com

� Enabling Devices – musicalform boards, battery deviceadapters, switches & toys,800-832-8697,www.enablingdevices.com

� SoftTouch – single switchsoftware, 877-763-8868www.funsoftware.com

� SimTech Publications– single switch software,www.hsj.com

Get ready!

Choose a puzzle - Form boards are puzzles where each piece fits intoits own hole. Inset puzzles have interlocking pieces which fit into aboard. Jigsaw puzzles have small interlocking pieces but no board.

Easy grip - Choose puzzles with small or large knobs or add your ownknobs from a hardware or craft store. For small knobs, clip the pointsoff push pins, then glue them on with super glue.

Got a feeling - Choose puzzles you can do by touch: form boards orpuzzles with textures. Do it yourself by gluing on textures or drawingon the pieces with puffy paint to outline the major parts of the picture.

Stick with it - Velcro or magnets help keep puzzle pieces from slidingaround. Attach the scratchy side of adhesive Velcro to the back ofeach piece. The pieces will stick to a carpet square, which you can puton a table, wall or slanted board. Or, apply adhesive magnets to theback of each piece, and arrange the pieces on a steel easel or cookiesheet.

Looking good - To make picture puzzles easier to solve, add a pictureof the finished puzzle inside the board. Photocopy or trace thecompleted puzzle, color it if needed, and cut it so it fits inside thepuzzle form (or tape the paper to the cookie tray, and use withmagnets, above).

Sounds like a fit - Special needs toy makers, including EnablingDevices, provide form board puzzles that play a tune (or your favoritebattery-operated toy) when all the pieces are in place. Plug in yourchild’s favorite toy using a battery device adapter.

Go high tech - If your child cannot yet move or place pieces, try singleswitch puzzle software. See SoftTouch or SimTech Publications forexamples.

Let’s go!Before you begin, let your child explore thecompleted puzzle. Talk about the picture andshapes as the two of you remove, explore andarrange the pieces. If a puzzle is too hard, put somepieces in together and let your child try to do the lastone or two pieces alone.

Images: girl ©2001 by awesomeclipartforkids.com; puzzle (left) ©2001 bydiscoveryschool.com; used by permission.

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The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Read me a story!Listening to and retelling stories is an easy way to spend time together. Enjoying storiesbuilds new vocabulary and imagination.

Who can benefit

All ages, including childrenwith communication, sensory,developmental or physicalchallenges.

Safety first

Keep sharp edges filedsmooth on bookstands.

What you’ll need

� Styrofoam peanuts, popsiclesticks, paperclips forcreating extenders

� PVC pipe and hardware forcreating bookstands

� Switch interface or assistedkeyboard for computer use

� Scanner and graphicsoftware for scanning books

� Laminator and film� Clear contact paper� Magnetic tape and cookie

sheet� Velcro

Where to find it

� Local craft stores� Hardware and home

improvement stores� Office supply stores� Computer supply stores� www.intellitools.com� www.donjohnston.com� www.ablenetinc.com� www.cast.org� www.kidsstuff.com

Get ready!Gather books. Make needed modifications. Use computersoftware to provide independent access to books. Record booksinto AAC devices.

Let’s go!Read all about it!

Add extenders to help turn pages.http://projectparticipate.org/reading.asp

http://creative-comm.com

Create bookstands to assist in viewing books.

Use commercial software to scan books and provide access withsingle-switch or assisted keyboards.

Use bungee-type cords or straps to secure books to wheelchairtrays or bookstands.

Tell it again!

Take a second copy of any book and cut apart. Mount pictures onfoam board or laminate. Clear contact paper can be used if alaminator is not available. Attach velcro or magnetic tape to backof pictures to allow movement around a tempo loop covered board(velcro backed pictures) or cookie sheet with magnets.

Use AAC devices with preprogrammed lines from story toparticipate in retelling.

Use puppets for retelling parts of story. See Puppets within We canplay for further ideas.

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The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Accessible Sand PlayGetting your hands (or toes!) sandy isn’t limited to kids who can jump into a sandbox. Giventhe right setting and tools, many kids find sand play creative and calming

Who can benefit

Ages 1 to 7, including childrenwith sensory, developmentalor physical challenges.

Safety first

Avoid getting sand in eyes;avoid small toys a child couldchoke on; lay down groundrules about not throwing oreating sand.

What you’ll need

� Clean sand or alternative:rice, corn meal, dry beans,or a mixture

� Raised sand table (coulduse flat plastic container onan adjustable table)

� Floor covering, e.g. old dropcloth or shower curtain

� Food coloring or powderedtempera paint

� Large funnel & heavy string� Sand toys & tools

Where to find it

� Montessori’N’Such – Fossildigging sets, 800-287-1985,www.montessori-n-such.com

� Enabling Devices – pourwith a switch, adaptingbattery-operated toys,switches. 800-832-8697,www.enablingdevices.com

� Lakeshore Learning – sandtables & toys.800-421-5354,www.lakeshorelearning.com

� Discount School Supply –sand tables & toys.800-627-2829,www.earlychildhood.com

Get ready!Choose a container for one or more children. It need not be largeor expensive; shallow plastic storage boxes work well. Put yoursand area on the ground or at any table height. Do this activityoutside or protect your table, floor and furniture. Look for shovelsand other tools with wheels and with handles of different lengthsand shapes. You may need to add or adapt handles or clamp toolslike sifters within easy reach.

Let’s go!Colored Sand

Fill your play area with sand, rice, corn meal, etc. You can color the

with food coloring.

Funnel Drawings

Suspend a funnel by a rope over a sand box or a large tray. Fillwith sand (hold a finger over the opening!) and swing like apendulum. Experiment with different colored sand and differentsized funnels. Have a camera ready to record the artistic results!

Sand Tracing

Use a shallow cookie tray with a dark surface. Fill with a layer offine sand or cornmeal. Let child trace letters, shapes, etc. in thesand with a finger, plastic fork, toy rake, cookie cutters, etc. Youmay need to clamp down the tray and/or adapt the tool handles.(This is also fun to try with pudding!)

Fossil Hunt

Bury small items in the sand box – dinosaurs, shells, etc. – giveeach child shovels, sifters, buckets, paint brushes, & magnifyingglasses so they can uncover and investigate their finds.

Get the Scoop

Try sand diggers with short, horizontalhandles or push trucks with handles, wideshovels, and wheels. Clear buckets let kidssee what they shovel.

Artwork ©2001 by discoveryschool.com; used bypermission.

sand or rice by stirring in powdered tempera paint or shaking in a jar

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For more accessible play ideas, please visit “We Can Play” at www.ataccess.org Tel: 415-455-4575; TTY: 415-455-0491Permission to copy for private or non-profit use only (rev 06/01)

The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Memories in the Making: Creating

ScrapbooksMaking memory books and wall hangings offers time together and joy in creating colorful designs toshare with family and friends. With a few modifications, everyone can join into this activity that iscurrent and fun.

Who can benefit

Ages 3 to 6, including childrenwith communication, sensory,developmental or physicalchallenges.

Safety first

Keep adult scissors and toolsout of reach from little hands

What you’ll need

Blank stickersThematic stickersAdapted scissorsVariety of papersPaper punchesPolaroid IZone stickercameras

Where to find it

Local art & office supplystoresOnline stickers and clip artwww.stickervilleusa.com/scrapideas/frameset.html

http://www.coolclipart.comhttp://www.damn.net/sb/album/page03.html

http://www.abcgiant.com/http://www.clipartconnection.com/http://www.anewshop.com/cameras/polaroid/index.html

Get ready!Sort through pictures, gather acid free papers, stickers.

Set up communication devices with choices of colors, shapes,prepositional vocabulary for orienting items to page, etc. Select anddownload clip art from web sites for use on blank stickers.

Cut out various shaped backgrounds as frames for pictures.

Let’s goPick a Picture

Show 2-3 pictures at a time to allow youngster to select pictures forpage

Decorate the Page

Add foam to tops of punches to allow for punching shapes to decoratepages.

Create keyguard for punches to hold them while raising the keyguardslightly to stabilize punches while in use. Add dowels to tops of rubberstamps for easy handling.

Use paint rollers with adapted handles (foam, tubing) to roll paint ontorubber stamps for stamping pages.

Velcro punches or stamps to child’s wrist using sweatbands or velcrostrips to stabilize during use.

Using stencils or shape templates, have child draw around edges. Useadapted scissors or have peer or family member do the final cutting.

Use communication device or picture symbols to indicate placement ofpictures, stamps or graphics on pages in scrapbook.

Share it

Use prerecorded messages on communicationdevices to allow narration of pages, while familymember or peer turns pages.

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For more accessible play ideas, please visit “We Can Play” at www.ataccess.org (tel: 415-455-4575; TTY: 415-455-0491)Permission to copy for private or non-profit use only (rev 06/01)

The Alliance for Technology Access presents…

Splish-Splash! Accessible Water PlayPlaying in water lets kids explore things that sink or float, play with bubbles, and more.Water play can be exhilarating or soothing. Try these ideas at bath time, too!

Who can benefit

Ages 1 to 7, including childrenwith physical, sensory ordevelopmental challenges.

Safety first

Never leave children alonenear any depth of water!

What you’ll need

� Container for water� Table, if needed, so water

container is easier to reach� Clean water� Floor covering, e.g. shower

curtain� Plastic smocks� Toys, hoses, etc. (right)� Ability switch, battery device

adapter & battery-poweredwater toys, water pik, etc.

� Food coloring

Where to find it

� AbleNet – ability switches,adapted mixer, batterydevice adapter.800-322-0956,www.ablenetinc.com

� Enabling Devices – abilityswitches, adapted pourer,battery device adapter.800-832-8697,www.enablingdevices.com

� Lakeshore Learning – watertables & toys.800-421-5354,www.lakeshorelearning.com

� Discount School Supply –water tables and toys.800-627-2829,www.earlychildhood.com

Get ready!Set up anywhere spills and splashes won’t matter,on the ground, or at a table height your child canreach. Choose a container as large as a wadingpool or as small as a dish pan, or look forspecialized water tables and play harbors at schoolsupply stores.

Prepare for a watery mess

Find plastic smocks or old clothes for each child. Protect a wheelchairwith a colorful shower curtain, held in place with clothespins or bungeecords. Protect the floor if needed, and keep some old towels nearby.

Choose a variety of toys

Choose objects that float or sink: boats, sea animals, sea shells,rocks, sponges (can be cut into different shapes), and pool diving toys.Add plastic bottles, cups, water wheels, clear plastic tubing with afunnel at one end, toy fishing poles, and toys that squirt, spray orpump.

Make it accessible

Choose toys with a variety of shapes and handles. Diving toys, suchas rings that stand on end, are easy to grasp. Bright colors are easy tosee. Different textures, sizes and types of objects encourageexploration and language. Clamp funnels, clear tubing, or squirt toys toa tray or pole within reach. Any child who can press a switch can play,too, when you add a battery device adapter to battery-operated toysthat spray, squirt or pour. Try the switch-adapted pouring stand fromEnabling Devices.

Let’s go!Play with your kids and enjoy the fun!

Let the water table be an ocean, a huge pot of soup, a harbor, a carwash or a bath for dolls. Anything goes!

Add food coloring to make the water easier to see. Or, providesmaller containers with different colors of water for kids to mix. If you’rebrave, let kids add coloring directly from the bottles, or with eyedroppers.

Play music of different styles to encourage active or calm play.

For more fun, add bubble bath or dishwashing liquid and bring alongan egg beater or AbleNet’s switch-adapted mixer.

Image ©2001, courtesy of discoveryschool.com.