Are there certain things you should consider when toy shopping for a child with special needs?
According to the toy experts at Toys "R" Us, the answer is a resounding "yes."
Research presented by the retailer finds that children with special needs often suffer from accident injuries more often, particularly those who have cognitive, emotional or social limitations. In order to assist those who care for and play with differently-abled kids, Toys "R" Us has released their annual Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids which features a list of top toys as well as features safe play tips for children with special needs.
Actress, comedienne and mother and grandmother Whoopi Goldberg, is featured on the cover of the guide, along with Grace Kurowski, a five-year-old girl from Skillman, NJ.
"I am honored to appear on the cover of the 2009 Toys"R"Us Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids and advocate on behalf of children of all abilities who persevere in their efforts to reach new heights," said Goldberg. "With the help of the Guide, caregivers can find appropriate toys for a child's individual abilities, providing an equal opportunity for all children to enjoy playtime."
Some of the toys included in the guide include:
- Rock 'n Rollin' Piano from Sakar (Auditory)
- Fold & Go Barn from Melissa & Doug (Creativity)
- My First Duplo Set from LEGO (Fine Motor)
- Fold-2-Go Trike from Radio Flyer (Gross Motor)
- Laugh & Learn Say Please Tea Set from Fisher-Price (Language)
- Yo Gabba Gabba Muno's Groovin' Guitar from SpinMaster (Self Esteem)
- Spongebugs Kids Fun Bowling Set from Gamenamics (Social Skills)
- Color-Fillz from Crayola (Tactile)
- Disney Netpal Netbook from ASUS (Thinking)
- Nerf Cosmic Catch from Hasbro (Visual)
The guide, which is searchable online, also includes toy buying tips from the National Lekotek Center.
I do wish they’d take into consideration physical disabilities too!