By Nakalembe Ruth | Development officer
This quarter, a major focus was placed on the introduction and integration of structured play sessions as a core component of the rehabilitation program.
Objectives of the play session module:
Provide mothers with practical strategies to engage their children in therapeutic play.
Understand and explain to the other caregivers how play awakens the brain
Help the child with cerebral palsy to enjoy types of play that promote her communication, movements, social and emotional skills, and learning.
Explore ways other children can be encouraged to include children with disabilities in play.
Importances of play for children
Play awakens the brain, it gives the child an opportunity to explore and learn about things in her environment.
It gives the child an opportunity to use and develop senses.
When she is having fun she will be motivated to move.
Play gives the child opportunities to interact with other people and to learn how to communicate.
Play is fun and fun is what motivates children to move and learn.
Implementation and Structure:
Weekly play sessions involved activities tailored to each child's abilities and needs.
Sessions included interactive games, sensory activities, and physical exercises designed to promote motor and communication skills.
Benefits Reported by Mothers:
Increased Engagement: Mothers observed higher levels of engagement and enthusiasm from their children during play activities.
Practical Skills: Mothers gained new techniques to integrate play into daily routines, making therapy a fun and consistent part of life.
Emotional Support: The play sessions also served as a support network, where mothers could share experiences and strategies, fostering a sense of community and mutual support.
Feedback and Outcomes:
90% of participating mothers reported that the play sessions positively impacted their child’s development.
Mothers felt more equipped to handle their child’s needs and noticed improvements in their child’s social interactions and physical capabilities.
Creating Toys from Available Materials
Mothers were empowered to create cost-effective, homemade toys to aid in their child’s development.
Materials and Methods:
Materials: Use of everyday items such as cardboard boxes, plastic bottles, papers, banana fibers, and old clothes.
Step-by-Step Guides: Provided detailed instructions on making sensory boards, textured balls, and interactive books.
Impact:
Cost Savings: Reduced the financial burden on families by using readily available materials.
Customization: Allowed to customize toys to suit each child’s needs and preferences.
Engagement: Increased engagement from children who responded well to these personalized toys.
Conclusion
This quarter saw significant progress in the rehabilitation program for children with CP. The lead mother initiative proved successful, fostering peer support and empowering caregivers. Children demonstrated improvements in development and inclusion within their communities. Introducing play sessions and homemade toys has further empowered mothers, providing them with practical tools and a supportive community.
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