Care Free Fun: 5 Fun and Family-Friendly Activities for Children With Special Needs

Published on: 14 March 2019 Last Updated on: 22 February 2020

54 million people have special needs in the United States.

The same source says that around 2.8 million of those are children between the age of 5 and 15.

That’s a lot of unique young people looking to have fun in their spare time! Kids have masses of energy to burn at the best of times. However, the specific additional requirements of children with special needs can vary widely, and affect the activities they enjoy accordingly.

It’s always helpful to have some fun ideas up your sleeve that’ll ensure everyone’s entertained!

Keep reading to discover 5 awesome activities for children with special needs.

5 Awesome Activities for Children with Special Needs:

Check out these ideas for some extra special entertainment. For some extra help, here’s a great special needs planner!

1. Get Out Into Nature:

Nature

The outdoors is often ideally suited for kids with special needs.

Sensory experience is sometimes vital stimulation. The wind, smells, sounds and sights of nature are all valuable distractions for high-energy children!

Likewise, many organizations have set up nature experiences for kids with special needs. There are accessible walkways, activities, and playgrounds, filled with other kids and families having fun.

2. Go to a Story Time Workshop:

Most children love story time.

However, sitting quietly in one place can sometimes be difficult, especially where special needs come into play.

Storytime workshops (often found in libraries) offer a great alternative. A combination of stories, singing, and other sensory activities are sure to keep your kids happy and engaged.

Likewise, you could do the same at home. Sing and dance your way around a story!

3. Get Creative:

Some of the most artistic people in the world have special needs.

Celebrate that by getting creative with your kids. Get out the paper, pens, and paints. Try finger painting, body painting and other methods that involve sensory experiences.

You can also find special coloring pencils and crayons. These are designed to help a child with certain special needs to hold them.

4. Get Immersed in the Senses:

We’ve already noted the importance of sensory experience to some special needs children.

Immersion rooms are specifically designed to cater for this enjoyment. Every sense is covered. Special lighting, sounds, tactile experiences, and so on, are all in one room.

5. Go to a Special Film Showing:

Children often love watching films.

However, special needs children might struggle to sit down for long periods, or dislike the loud noises, and low lighting. Special needs film showings address these factors.

Kids can walk, talk and play, all while a film runs in the background.

Time to Wrap Up:

There you have it: 5 top activities for children with special needs.

Millions of people in the US walk through life with special needs. A significant number of them are children. Every child has the right to a fun-filled childhood, regardless of the personal challenges they may face.

Thankfully, these days there’s no limit to the number of opportunities available to make that happen. Hopefully, the ideas above have provided inspiration for your next day out with your own children!

Did you like this piece? Click here to read how to support family and friends with special needs.

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7 Of The Most Funny, Geeky & Cool Star Wars Gifts For Him

No one would dare refute the fact that Star Wars is akin to an international credit card. There are ardent fans of the franchise everywhere in the world. And, classic films have proven to unite all of us more than the government, more than music, and more than color, race, or creed would ever do. Appeasing a true fanatic for Star Wars is not really an uphill task. There are several cool star wars gifts for adults that are truly exceptional and can please a true Stars Wars fan geek in the fantasy world. Enough with the blabber; here are 7 awesome Star Wars gifts for him. 1.Kylo Ren Voice Changing Mask Kylo Ren Voice Changing Mask remains a true hit at theme parties. It features a Kylo Ren design, which draws inspiration from the Star Wars franchise. With this mask, your real Star Wars male friend can speak and sound like a real Kylo Ren. Furthermore, this voice changing mask is equipped with his most famous phrases derived from Star Wars. Kylo Ren Voice Changing Mask can make a badass Star Wars gift for him. It is an amazing Star Wars gift you must get him as soon as possible. 2. Star Wars Watch How much do you really love your male Star Wars friend? Well, if you truly love him and can certainly put a big astronomical number on it, then getting a Star Wars watch would be an ultimate gift for him. The watch has sufficient bulletproof durability and can effortlessly withstand those galactic conflicts. It is a stainless steel watch featuring diamond-like coating. What’s more, it does charge wirelessly so he (Star Wars aficionado) can feel like a real Jedi. The charge can last up to 2 weeks when full. 3. Remote Control Millennium Falcon Quad Perhaps you are not in a position to purchase a real Star Wars ship for him. But, you can buy him an incredible remote control version that includes authentic sounds and LED lights. This Millennium Falcon copy comes with 4 hidden rotors that can be controlled up to 200 feet away. This remote control can be used for both indoor and outdoor purposes. 4. Star Wars Silk Ties The Star Wars silk ties are awesome gifts that give him the opportunity to showcase his affection for Star Wars in a formal office setting. They are 100% silk ties crafted in Italy, and they come in two diverse designs. The Star Wars silk ties styles may include either Darth Vader or rebel logo design. They also come wrapped in Star Wars gift box, so they can make a perfect Christmas or birthday gift for him. 5. Stormtrooper Backpack The stormtrooper backpack is a practical gift for anyone who has a great love for Star Wars. It comes in a simple yet useful design, hence ideal for different purposes. This backpack is big enough to accommodate a laptop and related tech items. Besides, it does feature a sturdy design and excellent cushioning. 6. Stormtrooper Motorcycle Mask Does he like motorcycles? If yes, this badass motorcycle mask would make him feel like a true Stormtrooper. This Stormtrooper motorcycle mask is made from real leather, so it offers absolute protection against wind and rain. It also features a suede leather and soft foam lining. Sure, this badass mask is an eye-catcher on the road. 7. Imperial Coasters A mug sometimes does get too traditional and unexciting of a gift. Perhaps it is about time you got him these Imperial Coasters which would tempt him to the Dark Side. Imperial Coasters are ideal for whichever special event, including birthday and Christmas. They are made of stainless steel. So they are sturdy, stylish, and super durable. Read more: 5 Awesome Boyfriend Gifts For The Guy Who Has Everything

Seven ways to Support Family and Friends with Special Needs

When parents decide to start their journey of parenthood, they hope that they will get and bring up a perfectly healthy child. However, many are the times when genetic defects, birth complications, injuries, and other problems get in the way, and differently gifted children are born. Not many people take the time needed to understand people with disabilities, and even fewer people are willing to go out of their way to offer them support. If you have family or friends with special needs, here are a few ways in which you can make them feel your love and support. 1. Talk to them: Not many people know this but whether it is at work, school, at home and in other social setups, the productivity of people with disabilities and those close to them depends a lot on the attitude of the general community towards them. If the community around a disabled person has formed a negative attitude and barriers to their inclusion, they end up withdrawing and doubting their capabilities. On the other hand, when they are made to feel included and accepted they blossomed. Parents of children who have disabilities admit that they like it when a stranger walks up to them in a park and shows genuine interest to learn about their child’s condition. What people appreciate the most are people who take time to ask specific questions. For instance, ask how the child’s physical therapy is going as opposed to asking something general or offering that supportive smiles. At times you will find that people with disabilities need a listening ear, and they appreciate it when you take time and pay attention to details about their lives. 2. Be aware of personal space: People with disabilities often use mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, canes and other items. What most people do not understand is that most view these aides as part of their personal space. When interacting with disabled people, you always have to respect their personal space. If for instance, you want to assist them in pushing their wheelchair, do not just grab and start pushing at it, ask them if it is okay to help them move from one point to the other, you can push the chair when they agree. The same applies to when you feel they need you to support them in standing up, sitting down or other movements. You can start by saying something like, “Here, let me help you,” and then wait for their consent. If they feel that you are patronizing them or treating them like they are completely helpless, they will push back and reject your help. 3. Be thoughtful: There is nothing that whispers support to a disabled person more than knowing that you thought about them before you made the plans that you have made. It means that if for instance, you planned a meeting, you made sure that the room was accessible via wheelchair and there are ramps and other relevant accessibility and support features. It is also important to always inform them about all the plans which you have made for the meetings and other get-together arrangements so they can prepare well in advance. 4. Treat them normally: One of the most difficult corners to navigate when dealing with people who have disabilities is learning how to interact with them without making them feel abnormal. Most people think that being sensitive to these people is about hiding the achievement of their normal kids and clapping when the disabled kid does something that is simple and normal. When interacting with disabled people, do not minimize yourself or your child’s achievements. Learn that the disabled kid might not do things like regular kids, but they still get things done, eventually. Treat them like just any other kid, and they will respond positively to this. 5. Do not try too much: Another mistake people make when interacting with disabled people is the need to know what to say and what to do at all times. The truth is that disabled people are just like everyone else. It is okay to have a slip of the tongue when interacting with them. It is alright to listen to them when they are telling you about their complications and tell them that you honestly do not know what to say. If you have no idea how to help them when they are at their weakest, it is still okay to sit with them and listen. Your presence is reassuring enough for them. 6. Go an extra mile in the extreme seasons: Disabled people tend to struggle a lot more than everyone else in. They have to cope with inaccessible sidewalks, flare-ups which are triggered by the low temperatures, chronic pain and other issues that result from being stuck at home too long. These are the things you can do to ease their discomfort during this season: Take food to them-it is possible that they will not access grocery stores and farmers markets Visit them and spend the time to end the feeling of loneliness and depression. Send them a message and genuinely ask how they are faring Help them around the house and help them shovel and salt their driveways. 7. Support their dreams: There is nothing that says love to a disabled person than when you genuinely support their work. People with disability wake up in the morning because they believe they can rise against the odds and make a difference. The least that you can do to make their world a little easier to manage is to support their dreams and their work. When they tell you they are having a talent show, be present and cheer them on. Buy their art, shop from their outlets and all other small gestures which will make them feel appreciated. These are just a few of the things that you could do to help people with disabilities. In case you interact with them and realize they may need counseling from professionals, you can reach out to Regional & Rural Toowoomba Psychologists. They are well equipped to offer the support needed to make the lives of people with disabilities simple. Read Also: Practical Ways To Help Your Elderly Parents 7 Interesting Gifts For Your Best Friends Ways To Emotionally Deal With Chronic Illness Tips For Throwing A Family Reunion People Will Remember For Years 8 Family Friendly Careers That Offer Great Pay And Work-Life Balance

30+ Fathers Day Gift Ideas: It’s More Than Gifts

Are you searching for some of the best Fathers Day gift ideas for this year? If yes, then you have reached the right place! As we all know, 18 June 2023 is Father’s Day. And that means there is very little time to pan something. And if you are still looking for ideas to get your daddy dearest something this year, then you have a friend in me! Keep reading this article till the end to learn about the best and most unique father’s day gift ideas that you can try this year! Fathers Day Gift Ideas: Thoughtful And Unique Ideas! Father's Day is a special day dedicated to honoring and celebrating fathers and father figures. It is a time to show appreciation, love, and gratitude for the contributions and sacrifices that fathers make in the lives of their children and families. And if that is what you are trying to do and are looking for some of the best gift ideas for Father's Day this year, then you will find this blog to be of help. In this article, I have listed down the top 25 best gift ideas for Father’s day. So, without further ado, let us get right into it! 1. Personalized Engraved Watch The first on the list of the best Fathers Day gift ideas is getting your daddy dearest a personalized watch. You can engrave a message, a specific date, or even a name on the watch, giving it a special meaning and personalized touch. 2. Portable Grill Set Image Source: cdn.shopify.com If your father is into cooking and has a great knack for the outdoors, then getting him a portable grill set is the ideal gift this Father’s Day. make him know that you love what he loves, that you care for what he loves, that you respect his passion. And to be fair, this is a win-win situation if you like to eat what your dad cooks! 3. Bluetooth Speaker The next thing that you can give your father on Fathers Day is a Bluetooth speaker. The world is changing. Technology is evolving at a very fast pace. So why not move ahead with it? Getting him a Bluetooth speaker will help him put on some music and stay groovy! 4. Leather Wallet Now this one never gets old! Legend says that a man can never have too many wallets. Get your old man a great quality leather wallet. Make sure that all the things that he needs are able to fit inside the wallet, including his cards and all the extra thing that he likes to carry around. 5. Craft Beer Brewing Kit Image Source: m.media-amazon.com Making beer at home is a popular hobby for many aged men who are in their 40’s. If your father is into beers, then it is a great idea to get him a craft beer brewing kit this year. There are several options available online, so check them out before it is time! 6. Smart Home Device As I have already said, technology is evolving at a massive speed. Thus, to make it turn into your assistance, it is a great idea to get his house all smart! The best thing that you can do is to get him several smart home devices like Google Nest and Amazon Echo. 7. Fitness Tracker Or Smartwatch Whether your papa is into fitness, or you are trying to get him into it to make him healthy, it is a good cause. So, why not try to make it even better with a fitness tracker. These are extremely helpful and come in a variety of price ranges. 8. BBQ Tool Set Image Source: encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com Similar to the already-stated grill set, which is portable, this one is a BBQ tool set. It is ideal for those men who like to cook their hearts out and take center stage in family gatherings because of their culinary skills, these sets come with literally each and every item that you are searching for. 9. Personalized Photo Album Or Frame We all like to take a look back, and walk down memory lane— don’t we? So, how amazing f a gift will it be for your father to give him a customized photo frame with all the memories that you have made together? That is exactly what you need to do this Father’s Day. And, it is easy on the budget too! 10. Whiskey Stones Or Glasses Set Image Source: img.fruugo.com If your father likes to have a drink or two, it is a great idea to give him a whiskey stone or a glass set. This will not only make you two become better friends but also make him understand that you are not a little child anymore (you get what I mean?) 11. Drone With Camera Image Source: 5.imimg.com Well, this one is the next on the best fathers day gift ideas and another addition to the list of the best father’s day gifts that is related to the evolving technology. Drones are nothing new anymore. But if your father does not have it yet and likes to capture great aerial views, maybe it is a great idea to give him this one! 12. Golf Accessories Is your father into sports? And specifically the most sophisticated of them all— gift? If yes, then it will be thoughtful of you to get him all the golf accessories. These sets include golf balls, Rangefinder, as well as a club set. You can also buy them separately and club them into one! 13. Portable Power Bank This one might be nothing new for you, but maybe your dad needs one. Having a portable charger is nothing less than a blessing these days. Get him one that can charge almost all kinds of gadgets, from phones to laptops. 14. Customized Grilling Apron Image Source: i.etsystatic.com Does your father already have a grilling set? No worries, maybe you can get him a customized apron for the same. Write anything on it, whatever you like to call your father, or a line from a song that he likes the most. Trust me when I say this— he will be happy each time he puts it on! 15. Wireless Headphones Image Source: muscleandfitness.com Wireless headphones are the talk of the town for some time now. And if you think your father does not have it yet, then it is time for you to get him one of these. There are a number of great headphones that are available online. Check the specifications and read the review before you buy one! 16. Camping Gear Image Source: cdn.shopify.com If your father is someone who loves camping every now and then, it is a great idea if you get him camping gear this year. There should be almost everything in it that he will need for a great camping experience. These gears can include a sleeping bag, a tent, and even a camping stove. 17. Virtual Reality Headset There is yet another addition to the technological gift ideas for your father this year. You must have heard about the VR headset that is going viral these days. Well, what better way to help your dad take a step into this world of Virtual reality than gifting him a VR headset. But be careful as you might fall in love with one too! 18. Premium Coffee Maker Do you and your father love coffee? If yes, then giving him a premium coffee maker this year on father’s day is not a bad idea at all! There are tons of these available online. So just go through them and get ready for a steaming mug of coffee. 19. Personalized Cufflinks Cufflinks are not only something of the past. These are still worn and styled as needed. Give your father a handcrafted and customized pair of cufflinks this year. You can carve anything on it, from a quote to a date that is dear to both of you! Trust me, he will love it. 20. Outdoor Hammock Image Source: footprintfurniture.com.au What a great way it is to spend the evening sipping a cup of tea on the back porch resting on your hammock. Well if that is something that you think your father would like, then it is a great way to turn this thought into a reality. Get him some of the best and most durable outdoor hammocks this father’s day. 21. Engraved Flask Image Source: i.etsystatic.com Engraving and customizing items that you think will make your father happy is never a bad idea. And this is something that you can do even on a flask. If your father likes to carry a flask around wherever he leaves the house, get him a customized flask. You can also engrave a picture of the two of you to make it extra special. 22. Bluetooth Earbuds Does he like to listen to music? Is it a hassle for him to manage and detangle the earphones everytime? If so, then help him get rid of it by giving him bluetooth earbuds. These are not only easy to carry, but also extremely efficient. 23. Customized Puzzle With A Family Photo Image Source: i.etsystatic.com The next one on the list of the best father’s day gift ideas this year is getting him a customized puzzle set where he has to solve the puzzle and make the family photo complete. If he likes to do things that are challenging, then he is bound to like this! 24. Fishing Gear Does your father like to go fishing every now and then? If yes, then it might be a great idea to give him fishing gear. This set should have all the essential items that one needs when they go fishing, like a fishing rod, a tackle box, and other fishing accessories. 25. Relaxation Gift Set Image Source: images.squarespace-cdn.com Last but not the least on the list of the best fathers day gift ideas is a relaxation gift set. Your father, like all other dads around the world, goes through a lot of problems that he keeps to himself most of the time. He tries to act tough so that we can feel safe and protected. It is a great idea to give him some time when he can feel relaxed as well. And that is the reason why I have kept the best for the last! Plan a spa day for him, make him destress, make him relax, and make this day all about him! Things To Do With Your Father On Father’s Day! If you are searching for some of the best things that you can do with your father on this special occasion, then there is a list for that too! There are many meaningful activities you can do with your father on Father's Day to celebrate and spend quality time together. Here are some ideas: 1. Cook Or Prepare A Special Meal Together Plan a menu and cook your father's favorite dishes together. It's a great opportunity to bond and create memories in the kitchen. 2. Have A Picnic Pack a delicious lunch or snacks, grab a blanket, and head to a nearby park or a scenic outdoor spot for a relaxed picnic. Enjoy the fresh air and each other's company. 3. Take A Hike Or Nature Walk Explore the great outdoors by going on a hike or nature walk together. Choose a trail that suits your father's fitness level and enjoy the beauty of nature while engaging in conversation. 4. Play Sports Or Games If your father enjoys sports, organize a friendly match of his favorite game, such as basketball, soccer, or golf. Alternatively, play board games or card games indoors for some fun and laughter. 5. Watch A Movie Or Binge-Watch A TV Series Spend a cozy day at home watching your father's favorite movies or TV shows. Prepare some popcorn, snacks, and drinks to make it a full-on movie night experience. 6. Visit A Museum Or Exhibition If your father has an interest in art, history, or science, take him to a museum or exhibition that aligns with his interests. It can be a fascinating and educational outing. 7. Plan A DIY Project Engage in a do-it-yourself project together, such as building a piece of furniture, working on a home improvement task, or even starting a garden. It allows you to bond while accomplishing something tangible. 8. Go Fishing If your father enjoys fishing, plan a fishing trip together. Spend the day by the water, enjoying the tranquility and trying to catch some fish. It's a relaxing and peaceful activity that allows for conversation and reflection. 9. Take A Road Trip Plan a mini road trip to a nearby town or city that your father has always wanted to visit. Explore new places, try local cuisine, and enjoy the adventure of traveling together. 10. Share Stories And Memories Take the time to sit down with your father and have meaningful conversations. Ask him about his life experiences, childhood memories, and any advice he may have. It's an opportunity to strengthen your bond and learn from his wisdom. Remember, the most important thing is to spend quality time together and show your love and appreciation for your father on Father's Day. Choose activities that align with his interests and preferences to make the day truly special. Wrapping It Up! Remember, there is no better gift on father’s day than sheer love and respect that can make your papa feel all blessed and happy. However, it is never a bad idea to really make more effort and give him something that he will cherish. In case you were looking for some of the best fathers day gift ideas, I hope that this blog has been of help to you. If there are any other queries related to the blog, please feel free to reach out. Scroll down till you reach the comment box at the bottom of the page. Then leave your queries and suggestions there. And I will be there to answer them all for you! More Resources: 10 Things to Do Before You Move Out of State 8 Things Every Parent Should Do To Keep Kids Safe Online 7 Of The Most Funny, Geeky & Cool Star Wars Gifts For Him

Care Free Fun: 5 Fun and Family-Friendly Activities for Children With Special Needs