A recent Parents’ Association meeting featured Educational Directors Rebecca Jurow and Donna Logue discussing the topic of therapeutic toys. Holiday gifts for children with learning differences can be both fun and therapeutic. What may look like ordinary card games, board games, and puzzles may actually have added benefits for executive function, memory, behavior, and more.
During the meeting, the audience learned that many of the games everyone knew and loved as children actually taught valuable skills while we were having fun. Operation’s silly noises can teach hand eye coordination. Candy Land teaches patience and how to be both a good winner and a good loser. The card games from Uno promote strategy and thinking ahead.
Both Ms. Logue and Ms. Jurow emphasized how important family game nights are in their homes; no matter how busy their families are, game night is always a time to bring everyone together. Games encourage communication and partnership among parents and children, while having fun.
Ms. Jurow and Ms. Logue compiled a list of therapeutic toys and games that they recommend this holiday season. You may recognize a few childhood favorites!