Often we talk about what standing does for the body, but what is commonly overlooked, is what standing does for the mind. Standing is especially important for the mental development of the children with disabilities. Pediatric therapists appreciate and understand first-hand how standing can help with range of motion, spasticity, bowel/bladder function and the many of the other physical benefits of standing. But an overlooked benefit of standing, is how standing helps with perceptual development, cognitive awareness and very importantly, how standing can stimulate play.
Importance of Play
More and more research is finding that play deprivation for able-bodied children can lead to self-esteem, social interaction, and intellectual problems. The value of play for the child with a disability is often overlooked but is necessary for mental development and upper extremity muscle function and coordination.
Isabelle has better head control when she stands and can be more attentive to her toys!
Standing to Stimulate Play
When a child is sitting for long periods of time, head and trunk control often fatigue and awareness diminishes. When a child stands with head control facilitated, play activities can be more stimulating and more interactive with peers, and the child can use their arms and hands more effectively. By getting a stander with an angle adjustable tray, children can better access and visually attend to activities.
Using Play to Distract from Standing
Children tend to stay more motivated when they are having fun and playing. For some kids with physical disabilities, standing may not a favorite activity due to muscle stiffness or fatigue. For kids who are building up their tolerance to standing, redirect them from thinking about standing by letting them play their favorite activity in their stander. Read a favorite book, color a picture, or play a game while standing. Better yet, invite a friend or sibling to join them so they can get some social interaction at the same time. There are many fun activity ideas for kids through out the Capable Kids Clubhouse, such as activities that a child can do while standing, monthly kids activities, and HopeAbilities videos!
As we understand that play is a necessary part of human development, it is obvious that play is also a great joy in life. As adults we should do our best to facilitate and provide play to all children.
For information on the EasyStand Bantam pediatric stander for children, and all the physical, psychosocial, and cognitive benefits, goto www.easystand.com/bantam.
