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Universal Design: Identifying toys for all children |
Universal design (UD) is a philosophy for designing products and systems that are usable by people with the widest possible range of functional capabilities. All potential users are considered during inception of the idea, and in the design and marketing of the product. The philosophy is portrayed in certain features in readily available off-the-shelf toys that make them more useable by all children, including those with disabilities. By applying a UD concept to toy design, universal play opportunities are supported where all children can engage in similar play activities with the same toy. UD does not infer a single toy that is best for all children, but promotes a philosophy
of full inclusion that impacts the entire design process.
UD toy features are broadly defined to include:
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Multiple ways of Presentation. The design appeals to children's sensory (sound, vision, touch) abilities and preferences. A simple design makes a toy's use easy to understand.
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Multiple ways of Use. All children can use equivalent ways for playing with the toy. Physical effort is minimized; a variety of actions can be used to play with toys. The toy can be used in different positions. It can adjust to the child.
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Multiple ways to Play. The toy appeals to children at varying developmental levels and abilities. It encourages use for more than one purpose. The toy holds a child's interest and encourages exploration and discovery. It is fun! (Adapted from "What is UDL? at www.cast.org)
 By selecting toys with UD features we support the ability of all children to play "just like any other kid".
Examples of toys with UD features:
Let's take a look at a toy all children use - children at all stages enjoy playing with balls. A standard vinyl playground ball may not be the best choice for children with cognitive, physical and/or sensory limitations. UD is seen as a combination of features that result in more people being able to use the toy. The balls below offer examples of UD features.
Gertie Ball
Small World Toys
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material has a tacky feel; bumps, knobs and patterns add interest
inflatable to customize the ball to suit any child's grasp
lightweight; hold, throw, kick or roll – for indoor or outdoor play |
Wiggly Giggly Ball
Hands on Toys
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several appealing color combinations available
responds with a fun "giggly" sound when rolled
special weighting design won't let it roll away |
Oball
Rhino toys
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unique loop design in bright color patterns
overlapping loops make it easy to catch and throw with one or two hands
explore, chew, throw and kick indoors and out |
Koosh Ball Hasbro
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unique strands make it fun to touch, hold and even taste
easy to hold with a whole hand or grab a few strands
explore, shake and throw |
UD encourages all children to use the same or equivalent ways when playing with a toy. It is apparent that the more UD features a toy has, the more likely it can be successfully played with by a broad range of children, including those with disabilities .
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