Since the COVID-19 crisis has been particularly challenging for children with special needs, the IDD, in collaboration with experts in the field has developed the Activity Bank for Disabilities (ABD), an activity bank for children that require additional and specialized care, in order to support their continued development and learning.
The resources in the ABD have been developed for children with multiple needs and segregated into the domains listed below. The domains and activities are meant to be chosen, customized and adapted by parents and caregivers depending on the learner needs and abilities. We recommend that the activities are done under the constant supervision of the caregiver or parent.
General Guidelines for Caregivers
This activity bank has been designed for learners with disabilities. They are meant to be chosen and adapted by caregivers depending on the needs of the learner. It is important to follow these guidelines while using these activities:
- All activities should be done under the constant supervision of a caregiver.
- All activities should be adapted to fit the learner’s needs and concerns.
- All activities should be introduced with cheerfulness and excitement so that the learner is interested in participating.
- There should be no pressure on the learner to get the activities right.
We also recommend:
- All activities be done in very short durations.
- All activities be done with many repetitions.
- Closely observing the learner’s reactions to the activities. If possible, note down the reaction to assist in future repetitions and activities.
- Take extra caution in activities that involve food as the learner may have food allergies as well as trouble with their oral motor skills and some foods may be a choking hazard.
- Take extra caution with any small items, which can be a choking hazard and avoid using these in activities with younger learners.
- Avoid using sharp objects, electrical wires and plugs with the learners and exercise caution when using these around the learner.
Acknowledgements:
The Activity Bank for Disabilities was developed in collaboration with:
- Aneela Mittal, MS SLP, senior speech pathologist at the Child Development Center (CDC) in Doha, Qatar
- Four Steps: Research, Training and Rehabilitation Centre for Persons with Special Needs in New Delhi, India
- Manovikas Kendra in Kolkata, India
- Caring Minds- Psychological Wellness centre in Kolkata, India
- Malika Mehta, MA LD, Special Educator and Learning Disabilities Consultant, Clinical Director at The Learning Lab, Mumbai, India
