As practitioners in the field of speech-language pathology, it is crucial to base our interventions on solid evidence. The systematic review titled A Systematic Review Comparing the Play Profiles of Children with Special Health Care Needs with Typically Developing Children provides valuable insights that can enhance our practice and outcomes for children with Special Health Care Needs (SHCN). This blog post aims to highlight key findings from the review and offer actionable strategies to improve play-based interventions for children with SHCN.
Key Findings from the Systematic Review
The systematic review examined 18 studies comparing the play profiles of children with SHCN to typically developing children. Here are some of the critical findings:
- Children with SHCN are generally less playful compared to their typically developing peers.
- They spend less time engaged in play activities.
- There is a significant reduction in social play among children with SHCN.
- Children with SHCN often engage in more solitary or parallel play.
Implications for Practice
Understanding these differences can help practitioners design more effective interventions. Here are some strategies to consider:
- Focus on Social Play: Since children with SHCN engage less in social play, structured group activities can encourage interaction. Activities like cooperative games or group storytelling can foster social skills.
- Increase Play Duration: Implementing frequent, short play sessions throughout the day can help children with SHCN remain engaged. Using timers and visual schedules can make playtime more predictable and manageable.
- Use of Playmates: Encourage play with familiar peers or siblings to create a comfortable and supportive environment. Peer-mediated interventions can be particularly effective.
- Adapt Play Environments: Modify play spaces to be more accessible and stimulating. Ensure that toys and play materials are suitable for the child's developmental level and interests.
- Employ Standardized Assessments: Use validated tools like the Test of Playfulness to assess and monitor progress. This ensures consistency and reliability in measuring play outcomes.
Encouraging Further Research
The review highlights a paucity of research on play in children with certain chronic conditions such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. Future studies should aim to reduce biases, use appropriate sample sizes, and provide detailed results. By contributing to the body of research, practitioners can help develop more targeted and effective interventions.
Conclusion
Play is an essential aspect of child development and a critical medium for therapeutic intervention. By understanding the unique play profiles of children with SHCN, practitioners can tailor their approaches to meet the specific needs of this population. Implementing evidence-based strategies not only enhances therapeutic outcomes but also enriches the lives of children with SHCN.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: A Systematic Review Comparing the Play Profiles of Children with Special Health Care Needs with Typically Developing Children.
