Here’s the thing when it comes to honoring all play. Toys are designed for fun and development! And fun is subjective.
Toys are meant for:
Laughter
Joy
Creativity
Connection
Exploration
There’s not just one way to honor play!
If you’re ever stuck on where you fit into honoring all play, especially for neurodivergent children, look at these areas below.
- Collaborate on communication needs/resources
- Enjoy some parallel play, there’s so much power and learning potential in belonging and togetherness
- Change up the environment: rooms with natural lighting, outdoors, water play, and more!
- Get creative with toys that consider the child’s (or client’s strength)
- Use music & rhythm
- And always, always watch & learn from the child!
Any play that is safe, enjoyable, that is motivating for the child and provides a sense of wellbeing is play!
That is why is it important to honor all forms of play.
If you would like to learn more about ways to support your child or a client, check out my podcourse with Speechie Side Up on her podcast!
If you see a toy that sparks joy, creativity, interest…even if it’s in an ‘atypical’ way….
That my friends, is play.
Dr. Diamond | A Dime of OT