Teaching play skills - selecting toys - teaching tips.  Bright Tots - Information on child development - Autism information.
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Teaching Playskills
TEACHING PLAY SKILLS
By:  Tracey Spiro
Special Education /Aba Teacher
Teaching Play Skills

Why is play important?           

•        Play is a child’s “work”.  It’s what they do in order to learn about their world.
•        Play allows a child to learn and practice new skills in all areas.
•        Play provides a vehicle to interact with people and objects in their environment.
•        Play promotes independence during “down time”.
•        Play builds confidence and competency.
•        Learning how to play appropriately with toys can replace non-functional play.
•        Most important, IT’S FUN!!!

How does play differ for a child with a developmental disorder?
Children without a developmental disorder   
Children with a developmental disorder
Ritualistic
Can be Non-Functional
Repetitive
Limited interests
Rigid
Voluntary
Spontaneous
Internally Reinforcing
Flexible
Creative
Selecting Toys?

•        Pick out toys that are related to your children’s INTERESTS.
•        If your child engages in “non functional behavior” choose toys that provide the same sensory input but in a
more appropriate way.
•        Choose toys that correspond to your child’s developmental level.

Teaching Tips:

•        Don’t be afraid to “change the rules” or use only some of the pieces to simplify the play in the beginning.
•        Remember to teach “one step at a time”. Small steps will lead to BIG gains!
•        Program for success! Provide “prompts” as needed in order to ensure that your child continues to be
successful and motivated.
•        Structure play time in “small time frames” frequently throughout the day.
•        Know when to end a play session!
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Bright Tots - Helpful information for picking the right toy for Babies, Toddlers and Preschool kids
What to look for in developmental baby, toddler and preschool toys.  Read on the importance of
choosing the right
educational baby toys, educational toddler toys, educational preschool toys that will

"Make Learning Fun"

Choosing the right Baby Toys | Toddler Toys | Preschool Toys | Special Needs

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