New toy store gives autistic kids fun ways to develop skills
A minute or two after entering the Therapyware toy store, 10-year-old Logan Zadrey sees what he likes and heads for the DVDs.
“For Logan, if it makes a sound or it lights up or it’s technology, he loves it,” says his mom, Wanda Zadrey.
The shop, which recently opened inside the west-end Maier Centre for Autism, offers a variety of activities designed to help kids with special needs. Its shelves are lined with crayons, flash cards, bouncy balls that light up, and even stickers incorporated in potty training.
Logan, who has autism, has motor skill issues that make walking and speaking difficult. But playing games that cater to his interests — like the stacking tops he’s taking home — can help him open up.
“It helps him engage … and socialize,” says Zadrey, adding that Logan has been working with Children’s Autism Services of Edmonton for about four years.
“We’ve noticed that he’s come out of his shell.”
Terri Duncan, a speech pathologist and executive director of the organization, says she hand-picked the toys in the store with the help of her sister, a kindergarten teacher.
Each item has its purpose, whether it targets language, behaviour, fine motor skills or sensory needs.
For example, a fidget digit, a small spring that can be rolled up and down along a finger, has a calming effect on kids who are seeking stimulation.
“It can help them focus … because it gives that hand something to do,” explains Duncan.
A blank puzzle might be used to build language skills if the pictures drawn on each piece are associated with the same letters or sounds. Each toy comes with tip cards filled with ideas on how they can be used. Age is not a factor because the kids are all at different developmental stages.
“It’s not just about the item, it’s about how you use it and how you use it is what can help the child develop,” says Duncan.
Part of the idea behind Therapyware is to give families convenient access to all the toys they need, instead of having to look through catalogues or online, she adds.
All the net proceeds go back to Children’s Autism Services.
“You know when you’re buying something you’re not filling somebody’s pocket, you’re helping families,” Duncan said.
Children’s Autism Services has been offering its services for eight years, but only moved into its own building — at 17451 103rd Ave. — in February 2012. In addition to Therapyware, it provides occupational and speech therapy as well as group programs.