Play Outcomes and Satisfaction With Toys and Technology of Young Children With Special Needs
By Hamm, Ellen M.; Mistrett, Susan G.; Ruffino, Amy Goetz; Journal of Special Education Technology, Vol. 21, No. 1, pp. 29-35Publication Date: Winter 2006
Study conducted to evaluate parents’ play outcome preferences, as well as the selection of toys and assistive technology (AT) by children ages birth to three with developmental disabilities. A total of 46 families who received AT services via a federal project conducted through a university in New York State from 1998 through 2001 participated in the study. The demographics of the participating families are presented in table format. Following a referral for AT services, a researcher conducted a phone interview with the family in order to obtain background information regarding the child’s level of play and parental concerns. The parents cited interest in increasing play options as the most desired play outcome, while parents most often chose low-tech, off-the-shelf toys that encouraged functional play. No difference in satisfaction levels were noted in terms of type of toy children played with. The authors contend that the conclusions indicate a need for parents and AT specialists to encourage a variety of play via a wider range of toys for students with disabilities. Implications for future research are discussed.
Published by: Exceptional Innovations (Website:http://www.exinn.net)
Technology and Media Division (TAM) of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) (Web Site: http://www.tamcec.org )
