chicago kids

Chicago Kids Activities
5 Indoor Play Places in Chicago that We LOVE
5 Indoor Play Places in Chicago that We LOVE 1000 1000 PTN Chicago

February is the month of love, so we thought we’d take this opportunity to share some of the places that we love in and around Chicago, particularly during these cold winter months. These places are all wonderful spots for engaging your little one in play that promotes healthy child development.

The Chicago Public Library

With every last book available through the internet, it’s easy to forget just how wonderful your local library can be. Spend a half hour letting your little one pick out books that she likes and reading them to her. Do some puzzles, or play a game that you don’t have at home on one of the children’s computers. Each branch also has plenty of interactive programming every month, ranging from homework help to story hours to arts and crafts. Find your local branch and check the event schedule here.

The Little Gym of Chicago

We can’t say enough good things about The Little Gym. This place specializes in classes that involve active play. Some classes are for parents and kids, some are just for kids, and the age range is from four months to twelve years old. (So many places that offer children’s classes start at age two, so this place can be a real life-saver for new parents.) Choose from gymnastics, dance, sport skills, karate, and more. Visit the website here to check out the current class schedule.

Kid City

This indoor play space is over 3,000 square feet and has everything from a play grocery market to a dress up boutique. This is a great spot for toddlers and pre-k kids in particular with big imaginations. You can bring a friend along or plan a session with one of our occupational therapists at this great playground. Learn more about the rates and hours here.

Little Beans Café

A perennial parenting problem is figuring out a way to take your kids on fun adventures and feed them well at the same time. Little Beans Café solves that problem by serving an assortment of drinks (including coffee) and snacks that both parents and kids will enjoy, all within a family play space. This could be the perfect spot to meet with one of our speech therapists to practice socializing, instruction following, and more. Learn more here.

Exceptional Wiggleworms at Old Town School of Folk Music

If your little guy loves music but has sensory sensitivities, then Exceptional Wiggleworms may be the perfect solution. This set of music classes is specifically designed for children with special needs and children with sensitivities to loud noises. Every class follows the same structure and is taught by someone educated in the field of special education. Learn more and sign up for a class here.

These are just a few of the spots we love. For more recommendations, feel free to give our office a call any time. We can also answer any questions you may have about our occupational, speech, and physical therapists or our approach to pediatric therapy.

low vision awareness
Low Vision Awareness: Resources for Chicago Families
Low Vision Awareness: Resources for Chicago Families 2048 1313 PTN Chicago

“My name is Kathryn* and my 6-year-old daughter Abby* has a rare genetic condition called Pallister Killian Syndrome. One of Abby’s biggest challenges is that she’s legally blind due to Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI).

Abby was evaluated by a developmental therapist for vision (DTV) when she was 7 months old and she started receiving vision therapy at home through early intervention about 2 months later. The DTV gave our family many ideas on how to teach Abby to look at objects including what distance to present them at, and advised us to allow for latency when working on vision. We were also advised to let Abby be as comfortable as possible (lying down or sitting well-supported), so her other muscles wouldn’t have to work so hard, and she could use her vision most efficiently.

We learned that Abby will best respond to high-contrast images (black/white or yellow/red), as well as shiny objects. We were told to not correct her head turn, but to allow her to position her head at an angle that would allow her to see best. We also learned to eliminate visual clutter, and if possible, have a black background separating the environment from the object we wanted Abby to attend to.

We also explored a communication system called an eye gaze. When using it, Abby uses her eye gaze to make choices, answer questions, etc. We are in the process of appealing our insurance company’s denial of coverage for an eye gaze machine.”

–Kathryn

Pediatric Therapy Network would like to thank Kathryn for sharing her story.

Vision is critical in early childhood development, from learning how to communicate to the development of both gross and fine motor skills.

Children with low vison often require very specific care and therapy, so it’s crucial to recognize the symptoms of low vision as early as possible and explore the resources available. Because low vision can accompany so many other conditions, it’s often overlooked—even by trained pediatric therapists and pediatricians.

As a parent of a child with special needs, disabilities or developmental delays, you may not be aware of your child also having low vision, which can go hand-in-hand with other diagnoses. In premature births and with cerebral palsy, spina bifida and neurological disorders, low vision is often an accompanying issue.

What is Low Vision?

“Low vision is a condition caused by eye disease, in which visual acuity is 20/70 or poorer in the better-seeing eye and cannot be corrected or improved with regular eyeglasses.” (Scheiman, Scheiman, and Whittaker)

Low vision is different from visual impairment in that low vision is uncorrectable. Visual impairment is often diagnosed in school-aged children, who may not be able to “see the board” in school or who show symptoms of visual impairment during a standard kindergarten vision test.

While visual impairment isn’t as severe as low vision, it’s still a serious condition that can cause significant issues as kids struggle in school:

“In general, a lot of times vision problems are overlooked. I have many students who refuse to wear their glasses so teachers forget they have a visual impairment and then they do not get the services or accommodations they need. There are so many times when teachers are writing on the board or projecting something on a screen and our students can’t even begin to make out what it says…A lot of my students have trouble in gym and the gym teacher believes it’s just a bad attitude, but in reality it’s because they’re extra cautious due to being unable to see the ball or what is in front of them.”

– Chicago Public School Teacher


reading glassesLow vision
, on the other hand, can present significant issues very early on. Infants are reliant on vision for communication. They learn to mirror facial expressions and read situations and emotion
s in others around them. An infant with low vision may display fearfulness and uncertainty when it comes to new situations. They may be at risk for delays in communication development due to their limited ability to explore their world visually. A child with low vision may also struggle with gross and fine motor skills. For example, they may overshoot when trying to pick up cereal pieces or they could miss a block or toy completely because they simply can’t see it’s there.

Low vision may also present itself in toddlers and preschoolers. Young children with low vision might struggle with stairs, fall down often, display a head tilt, or favor one direction. Pediatricians may overlook or downplay muscular imbalances in the eye, as some do correct themselves later on.

Remember, you are your child’s best advocate, so you may notice symptoms your pediatrician does not. Always discuss any concerns you have with your child’s doctor.

The Needs of a Child with Low Vision

The needs of a child with low vision can vary, depending on the level of impairment, as well as any co-diagnoses. Across the board though, most children with low vision have some specific cognitive, gross and fine motor skill, and communication needs.

A child with low vision might need:

  • Physical therapy and occupational therapy to counter any limitations on fine or gross motor development due to the effects of low vision.
  • Attention to building fine motor skills and two-hand touch activities, plus exercises designed to assist with learning Braille later on.
  • Support with communication and social interaction, as they may need help learning to socialize and play because they’re unable to see visual cues or have had trouble learning to imitate their peers due to low vision.
  • Help with body awareness, spatial recognition, and sensory issues, as well as mapping skills.
  • Assistance with recognition of new sounds, voices and environments.
  • Tactual interaction (touch).
  • A more robust aural communication, including descriptive explanations of experiences.

Your child’s therapists and pediatrician can formulate a tailored plan to meet their needs.

For example, in speech therapy, your child may prefer tactile and auditory learning, requiring more “hands on” activities and listening to tenor and pitch to communicate, rather than watching for visual cues. You may want to opt for brightly colored toys, items with lights, sounds and other non-visual features. When communicating with your baby or toddler, you might incorporate more touch, and aural communication.

In physical therapy, a child might need assistance to identify the parameters of the room. They might need a little additional help with navigation and attention to stairs, as well as consideration when they’re climbing, aiming and reaching.
Kids in occupational therapy (OT) also require consideration when it comes to low vision therapy. If they miss visual cues during play, they might become frustrated or upset. OT kids might need to work with their therapist on play that helps them be successful without relying on visual skills to complete a task.

It’s important that your child’s therapy plan takes their low vision into consideration and incorporates it as part of their care.

Working with optometrists and ophthalmologists is also key when addressing low vision. Ophthalmologists can test and diagnose the cause of the vision impairment, whether it’s stemming from an underlying health issue, if it’s part of a diagnosis (as in neurological disorders), or if the low vision itself is the root of your child’s developmental delay.

If you suspect you child has low vision, visit your pediatrician first, then ask to be referred to an ophthalmologist. Your pediatrician can guide you through early intervention steps to help you formulate a care plan, especially if low vision is a co-diagnosis.

National & Chicago-Area Resources for
Parents of Children with Low Vision

There are a wide range of additional support services and resources that may be appropriate for your child depending on age and ability. Work with your child’s therapist and pediatrician to identify the activities and resources that can best assist your individual situation.

  • The Chicago Lighthouse – This agency offers a wealth of information and has infant, young child and family specialists. (Here’s the link to their Birth-to-Three Early Intervention) From the website: “The Chicago Lighthouse is a world-renowned social service organization serving the blind, visually impaired, disabled and Veteran communities with comprehensive vision care and support services.”
  • Illinois Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments (IPVI) – This Chicago organization provides support, information and services for parents of children with low vision, including those with additional disabilities.
  • The Parent Child Institute at The Illinois School for the Blind and Visually Impaired in Jacksonville, Ill. This institute is recommended by Kathryn and her daughter Abby, mentioned in the story above. Kathryn says, “We had the opportunity to connect with other families, attend lectures on the topic as well as listen to students’ stories. We also learned about the technological advancements (particularly Apple products) that are very user friendly for people with visual impairments.”
  • Cortical Visual Impairment and the Evaluation of Functional Vision by Dr. Christine Roman – This book, as well as the free webcast is considered the “bible” for CVI.
  • Blind Service Association – This volunteer-based Chicago association is dedicated to improving the lives of people living with visual impairments.
  • Ten Ways You Can Help a Family Member or Friend Experiencing Vision Loss – this article from Second Sense (a Chicago organization providing resources for adults with vision loss) offers a number of low vision resources and organizations.
  • Serving Families of Children with Vision or Dual Sensory Loss (from the Early Intervention Training Program at the College of Education at Illinois) – This is a self-paced introduction to concepts and resources. Registration is required, but this online class is open to everyone. From the website: “Originally developed for service coordinators, this learning module is appropriate for any individual working with families of children who are blind, visually impaired, or dual sensory impaired. This online training provides a basic overview of what to be aware of when serving families of children who are blind, visually impaired, or dual sensory impaired. Also reviewed are basic screening methods, types of vision loss, including eligible diagnoses, the early intervention process, and services available.”
  • Scout Information Clearinghouse on Blindness and Visual Impairment – This database contains a huge amount of online resources related to blindness and visual impairment. (Follow this link to skip to the Advice for Families of Young Children with Visual Impairments page.)
  • National Association of Parents of Children with Visual Impairments – from the American Foundation for the Blind website. NAPVI provides information and resources for parents of children with low vision, including those with additional disabilities.
  • Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Student Health Services – Please click the Vision & Hearing button to reveal CPS services and both internal and external resources.

These National & Chicago-area Low Vision Awareness Resources were compiled by our Pediatric Therapy Network (PTN) Therapists:

Tina Copeland, LCSW –and– Erica Berger OTR/L, MOT.

Special thanks to CPS and Abby’s Mom, Kathryn.

Working with a physical, speech, or occupational therapist who works with your child in their home environment can make a huge difference. Your therapist from Pediatric Therapy Network Chicago can help ensure your child is comfortable in their world by working with them in their own, familiar environment.

 

*Names have been changed to protect the privacy of our patients, parents and partners.

indoor play
Chicago Winter Play Ideas for Kids
To Encourage Motor Skills, Speech & Social Play
Chicago Winter Play Ideas for Kids
To Encourage Motor Skills, Speech & Social Play
1000 667 PTN Chicago

Between the snow and chilly January weather, finding fun, stimulating and safe activities for kids can be a challenge for any parent.

Here in the Chicago area, we’re so fortunate to have a number of great resources and fun winter activity opportunities to help you resist the urge to turn to the iPad babysitter. There are plenty of great ways to get out of the house and allow your child to engage in important social activities with their peers. If you’re into staying in, we’ll also provide some great ideas for encouraging safe and active play in your home (even in small spaces).

Outdoor & Out-of-the-House Winter Activities for Kids

Fresh air, sunshine, and yes, even snow can be great sensory experiences for all kids, especially those with special needs. Bundle up and build a snowman, go sledding, and have fun! Even a quick 15-20 minute walk can help boost concentration and get out some of the frustrations of being cooped up indoors (…and it’s great for Mom and Dad, too)!

If you’re looking for some affordable kids’ activities in Chicago or the surrounding areas, try the Lincoln Park Zoo or the Brookfield Zoo. Both zoos offer amazing indoor play spaces, as well as hands-on activities and exploration challenges. Accessible by public transportation, the Zoo is a great space to connect with nature.

fun with aquatic therapy!We just love Goldfish Swim School, so we definitely recommended it as a great indoor swim space for kids. They offer family swim times and other opportunities for kids to experience swimming and water play. Working in the water has great benefits for kids with physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) needs, as it fosters fine motor development. Plus, the social-emotional aspects of a pool environment also go far in helping children strengthen language skills.

The Chicago Children’s Museum is another great child-friendly environment. The museum is very wheelchair accessible and offers free access for all children on Thursday evenings from 5-8pm and on the first Sunday of every month. If you really want to get your kids engaged in the museum experience, try challenging them to a scavenger hunt or asking them to “find” certain items during their trip. It adds another element of exploration and makes their trip even more exciting.

“I highly recommend Flying High Gymnastics in Countryside, IL (or their additional location in Hickory Hills). I love that this gym is very child friendly and individually focused. They offer a variety of classes that are open to children of all ages. They welcome parent participation for their “Twinkling Tots” group (all children under 3) and continue to offer graduated courses for every milestone/age group. There are various open gym opportunities every day of the week, including Saturday afternoons and weekday mornings for little toddlers. Diversity is highly valued here. Children with special needs are welcome with opportunities to adapt equipment and even seek individualized instructors. (Occupational therapists are on staff.)” –Laura Vazquez, PT, DPT, Pediatric Physical Therapist, Pediatric Therapy Network

Little Beans Cafe is tons of fun and very accessible for kids with special needs and abilities. You can enjoy the family café while your child engages in imaginative and creative play. There are creative movement classes for infants, toddlers can build on their toddler skills, and they even offer hip-hop and dance classes for older kids.

Winter Activities for Kids: At Home

January is TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) Awareness month, so it’s an appropriate time to touch on safe activities you can do at home, regardless of needs and ability levels. All children need activity and physical stimulation within a safe and comfortable space.

In the summer months, outdoor activities abound—from the park to the pool, city and suburban kids have plenty of chances to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. During the winter, getting that same activity level in can present a bit more of a challenge, especially for kids without a yard or a play space within their home.

—  Setting up a Play and Activity Space

Jumping Couch ArmsMovement and activity is key from a physical therapy perspective. Occupational therapists also know that, for kids, play IS their occupation and movement is even important for speech and language activities as well. No matter your child’s needs, the importance of regular movement and activity can’t be overstated.

Depending on the size of your home, you may need to get a little creative when setting up a safe space. First of all, look around at the resources you have on hand. Clear a space in your living room (flip up couch cushions and cover table corners and anything hard or sharp). If you have more space in the basement, kitchen or even in a bedroom, consider moving furniture and pushing beds to the side of the room to create more space. It’s all about creating a safe, open space where your child can really move around.

—  Fun Ideas for Indoor Activities

From there, the sky’s the limit in terms of activities:

  • Nerf balls and baskets can be great to get kids dunkin’ and movin’.
  • Turn on some music and start a dance party.
  • Come up with an obstacle course or challenge where kids have to engage in two or three activities in rapid succession. Try working on catching and tossing a ball, balancing, tossing a yo-yo or beanbags, or even blowing bubbles.
  • Rethink “indoor activities” and bring some of your favorites inside, modified to fit your space. Play leapfrog, create a circus ring complete with performers, or put on a short theater play with older kids.

“To curb winter blues, many toddlers love scavenger hunts! They get a thrill discovering hidden toys or just spotting them around the room. Involve them in hiding toys as well, for siblings and parent participation. After they find the toy, they can return to home base (a puzzle board or other task) after navigating through creative obstacle courses. If indicated and safe, couch cushions, improvised low balance beams, and stepping stones can be great additions to the obstacle course.

lauraBe sure to check with your therapists about any precautions for using equipment and if your child may be more at risk for any head or neck injuries. As long as the child can adapt, falling is a skill to be mastered and is a necessary part of growth! Enjoy this season, and stay warm and bundled!” –Laura Vazquez, PT, DPT, Pediatric Physical Therapist, Pediatric Therapy Network

Engaging in active, social play (instead of too much TV time) allows your child to build and hone the skills they need. For example, include activities that involve blocks and building or beads and crafts to help them really refine dexterity skills and boost concentration.

At Pediatric Therapy Network, we strongly believe in-home therapy is beneficial to your child’s development, as familiar environments are where kids feel most comfortable. Rather than going “away” to an office or building, your child learns and associates their skills with their home and other familiar places like school, the park, and among their social network.

Creating a fun, stimulating indoor space can help your child fend off winter blahs and keep them making great progress, even in the coldest months. It’s an important part of keeping kids healthy and working on gross and fine motor skills, as well as social and emotional growth. Get your kids away from the screen and engaged in some fun activities this winter!

PTN specializes in Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy, and offers a unique home-centric approach for children in their familiar environments. If you’re looking for more great ideas for your child’s special needs, or if you have questions about our services, please contact us! We look forward to serving you and your child!

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