Children have special needs for different reasons. Some may have a specific medical condition that delays their development on a long-term basis (such as Down's Syndrome or Autism) and some may have delayed development because of a short term problem (such as speech delay due to serious Glue Ear problems when younger). And, some kids may have special needs at the other end of the spectrum as they may be gifted and talented.



Examples of special needs toys

Special needs toys don't always have to specially designed for special needs issues although in some cases specially designed toys can be beneficial for certain conditions. In many cases it is simply a question of finding a toy or game that can help a child work on a special need that they have. For example, children with ADD/ADHD may have problems with poor memory and concentration. Here, toys and games that help them concentrate for short periods of time by using different stimuli to keep them interested can be useful.

Some conditions can lead to problems with both gross and fine motor skills (such as Dyspraxia, Cerebral Palsy and Down's Syndrome). Problems with gross motor skills can often be improved with outdoor, active toys such as bikes, trampolines and sports games where they can have fun, run off some energy and help their bodies develop the skills they need through play. If a child has problems with fine motor skills then games that encourage them to use their hands to improve co-ordination and so on may be useful. Examples here include puzzles, construction sets (which can also help with problems with spatial skills) and craft kits such as bead making sets and sowing kits.

The key thing here is to try and compensate for the skills that the child needs work on. Often this can be a case of compensating by emphasising other skills. So, for example, a child with hearing difficulties will benefit from toys that have louder volume or ones that help them compensate by using their senses of touch and vision.

Conclusion

Whenever you're choosing any toy for a child it is important to think about the age recommendation that comes with it -- a toy that is too easy for a child won't stretch them and, if it's too hard, it will frustrate them. Bear in mind that special needs children may not fall into their own age range -- if in doubt ask the parents as extra care is needed here. Finally, make sure that any toy that you buy comes with a safety accreditation such as a BSI marking and that it is good quality -- this will mean that the toy will last longer and that it will be safer.