Being the parent of a special needs child can be
isolating. So many activities are off limits
due to accessibility concerns, behavioral problems and communication
challenges. It’s hard enough coping with your own loneliness, but knowing your
child struggles to make friends is heartbreaking for most parents. One way to break down barriers and find social
opportunities for you and your child is by hosting an inclusive playgroup where
children with special needs and typically developing children play together.
Children with special needs may benefit from observing typically developing
peers, and those without developmental challenges will learn from and come to
appreciate their peers with special needs.
We’ve put together some guidelines for making playgroups
successful.
1.
Organize
playgroups around developmental age
If
your child has a disability, she may not be functioning at the same level as
typically developing children of her own age. Your child may have more success
playing with children who match her developmental, not her chronological age.
2.
Keep
it small
Children
with special needs can be easily over-stimulated and overwhelmed so it’s wise
to limit the number of children in the playgroup to no more than four or five.
3.
Be
consistent
Children with special needs often have trouble adapting to
change. So keep group norms as consistent as possible. Don’t invite guests
without warning your child first, and try keeping the playgroup’s schedule regular.
It’s also worthwhile to come up with some ground rules regarding behavior
expectations for all group members. Unless rules are clear, conflicts between
children and parents can sabotage relationships and the longevity of the group.
4.
Prepare
a couple of simple activities
Children with developmental disabilities such as autism may
be challenged when it comes to reciprocal, spontaneous and imaginative play. If
that’s the case for your child, prepare a few activities that you know your
child and the other children in the group are likely to enjoy. Crafts projects play
dough, or sing-alongs work well with most children.
5.
Have
snacks
Provide healthy but child-friendly snacks. Since some
children may have dietary restrictions be sure to discuss options with parents
beforehand. Better yet, ask parents to bring their own snacks if they have
concerns about what’s being served.
6. 6.
Make
sure the designated playgroup area is free of breakable objects, sharp edges or
uncarpeted surfaces. If children are under 3 years old or have oral sensory
processing issues, be careful not to put out toys with small pieces that can be
choking hazards. If you have the space, consider creating an indoor gymnasium
with soft
play products. Ball
pits, soft
play blocks, tunnel
climbers and patchwork
floormats get kids moving, and having fun for hours.
7.
Be
patient
If your child’s disability affects his social skills, don’t
expect friendships to develop overnight. Focus on making sure that everyone has
fun and feels comfortable so that parents and children want to meet again. In
time, you may be surprised of the relationships that form.
8.
Keep
it short and sweet
A
playgroup that lasts more than two hours is flirting with disaster. Regardless
of their developmental age, most young children become over-stimulated, tired
and irritable after a certain point.
9.
Playgroups
in the community
If
you aren’t up to creating your own playgroup, don’t give up on the idea. Plenty
of community organizations including Lekotek,
Where I Can Be Me, and your
local YMCA or JCC offer playgroups that are staffed by professionals. Meetups
are another great source for connecting with other families with special needs
children.
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