Dragonfly: Universal Access Resources / Articles / Doing Wheelies!
Quick Search
PLAY Pen Article
Parenting a Literal Child
It's not just a matter of symantics - for some kids, everything is literal. In parenting several kids with FAS/FAE, I've found that you have to be very careful with your instructions - because they'll be followed!
|
|
Doing Wheelies!
By: Renata Bursten, Dragonfly Staff
Finding a great therapeutic bike for a child with special needs.
Hitting the open road on your snappy new bike this summer? Biking is a rich source of fun and exercise for the entire family. Great new models of adapted cycles ensure that the whole family can get on the road to fun and fitness.
,Most children who have physical impairments can still enjoy safe and comfortable cycling - as long as the proper therapeutic bike is chosen. Some key concerns when choosing adapted bikes are:
Q: Can my child sit upright alone? If not, then look for special torso support from the seat.
Q: Can my child make the reciprocal (bicycling) motion with their legs while seated upright? Perhaps straps on the pedals are enough to keep the feet on the pedals throughout the entire trip around. If we need more help, then a Journey model provides incredible torso support, and it shifts the angle of the reciprocating leg motion towards that back where many children can handle it better.
Q: Is my child not using their legs for cycling? Then look instead to their arms for providing the drive, using a hand cycle like the Expedition. The hand driven Expedition can provide a terrific cycling experience and it is a great vehicle for upper body strength development.
Today's amazing new cycles provide unlimited potential for family fun and exercise. Specially designed cycles allow everyone to take part in this popular activity.
Remember, never leave a child unattended in their cycle! And everyone should wear a good helmet and full protective gear!
Welcome to Dragonfly USA.
PLAY Tip
Accessible Art Activities: Art In Living Color!
Children with physical impairments like cerebral palsy can have a lot of trouble finding accessible art activities. Try playing with the switch adapted Gelly Paint'n'Swirl. Name each color as it is added to the picture. The child presses the switch to swirl the colors on the paper. Each colorful creation is unique!