What do you tell the little girl in the wheelchair about playing bingo with her classmates? The answer isn’t 'watch your friends’. Get a magnetic wand AC-60 (magnetic grasping tool for limited hand dexterity) to get her into the action.
Do we ask the boy who has physical and cognitive limitations to stay at home when his classmates are going swimming? No. Make sure there are floatation devices at the pool. The issue might be as basic as making sure he has a head float so that it will keep his face out of water and will help prevent tipping or rolling. Of course, he will need an assistant. The assistant might also want to check that the air and pool temperatures are suitable to the boy’s needs.
Maybe the issue is arts and crafts. Make it both possible and fun! Start with adapted tongs. Add a wheelchair easel with an angled lap tray. The participant may need a homemade cuff (participants can strap on tools). Attach crochet and embroidery hoops to a table top to allow for work with 1 hand. How about loop-the-loop scissors (curved scissors made for 1 or 2 hands use)? They can be basic or table top scissors so that cutting becomes easier. Often hand-over-hand scissors are the way to go. Think about using dollar store items such as velcro for objects on a tray or paint brushes with large handles. They may do the trick in making the time pass in a much more fun way. And don’t forget to use no spill cups for the paint and use large printed art paper for those with low vision.
Able-bodied people often take basic things for granted. You can empower those who don’t have your strong voice or ability. Stand up and advocate for the special person in your life!
Erika Tencer is co-founder of Empowerment - A Special Needs Network and a therapeutic recreation specialist.
