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Information for Caregivers

"Time to Adapt" Ideas

November 29, 2001 Satellite Broadcast

A simple change can make a big difference! Try some of these simple ways to help children use materials more easily.

For picking up or grasping:

Velcro
Attach a small piece of velcro (loop side) on each puzzle piece and strips of (gripper side) velcro to a puzzle board, kitchen tray, or cookie sheet. Velcro holds the puzzle pieces where the children place them.

Attach velcro strips (loop side) to game boards. Attach (gripper side) velcro to game markers. This will help the markers to stay in place on the game board while children play.

Turning Book Pages:

Velcro
Attach a small piece of velcro (loop side) to the bottom or top of each page in a child’s board book. Attach a piece of (gripper side) velcro to a small (1 inch or 1/2 inch) foam paintbrush. The child can use the paintbrush to grip the velcro and turn the pages.

Craft Sticks or Paper Clips
Attach a craft stick or large paper clip to each page in a book. Children may find it easier to grasp the stick or paper clip to turn the pages.

Stop Things from Slipping:

Non-Stick Shelf Liner
Place a piece of non-stick shelf liner on the seat of a chair or high chair, so children won’t slip off.

Place non-stick shelf liner on the seat of a riding toy to keep children from slipping off.