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Workshops, Games and Activities for Developmental Disabilities

Therapeutic activities help children and adults with developmental disabilities to thrive in the everyday world. Therapy activities, when disguised as games, not only help improve motor, speech and listening skills, but also provide a unique social opportunity. By involving other people in the games, children and adults with disabilities learn how to appropriately interact with other people.

  1. Imitation Games

    • Games like "Simon Says" teach children and adults with disabilities to listen closely to instructions. The physical aspect of the game also helps develop motor skills. To play the game, one person stands in front of the group. This person is "Simon." The group must do whatever activity Simon says to do, but only when the group leader says "Simon says." For instance, if the group leader says "Simon says jump up and down," the group would jump up and down. However, if the leader just says "jump up and down," with no "Simon says" in the beginning, then the group stays still. For competition, eliminate anyone who acts when Simon does not say. The last person standing wins.

    Scavenger Hunts

    • This game can be play indoors or out, in small groups or alone. Give each group or individual a sheet of paper with a list of items on it and a bag large enough to hold the items. The list can be text only or can have pictures of the items, depending on the participants' ability levels. Ask the groups or individual to find the items on the list and place them in the bag.

    Date Nights

    • Adults and teenagers with developmental disabilities have the same need to socialize as the rest of us. Try organizing a date night or dance party. Include both individuals with disabilities and individuals without disabilities. Provide music and light refreshments. Encourage those with disabilities to introduce themselves to others and interact with people that they haven't met before.

    Attending Charity Events

    • Instead of organizing an event, try attending charity events. Walk-a-thons are a good way to get outside for some exercise while also interacting with many new people. Many parks host clean-up days, which can also provide developmentally disabled individuals with exercise and new experiences. Volunteering time to help others provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

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