ChildRC: Birth Injury Resource Center

Home > Birth Injury Resources > Assistive Products

Assistive Products

Special Equiptment and Aids for Disabled Children

When a child's mobility and functioning are limited as the result of a disability, even the simplest tasks may pose a challenge. And watching your child struggle only to give up in frustration - can be heartbreaking. Fortunately, medical scientists and technical engineers working together with caregivers and healthcare professionals have made great strides in developing equipment to assist children with special needs.

From special eating utensils and writing instruments to high-tech computers and software, assistive devices are designed to make your child's life easier and more fulfilling. E-SpecialNeeds.com is a great website for finding almost any type of product to help assist your child. In addition we’ve also included some specific examples and links for products that might be a bit harder to find.

Wheelchairs

A manual or motorized wheelchair or an electric scooter can promote independence and give the child a sense of freedom.

Before you purchase a wheelchair for your child, be sure to talk to his or her physical therapist or orthopedist. Wheelchairs are expensive, and they come with a variety of options and accessories to meet the needs of children with different abilities. You can avoid costly mistakes by asking a professional to assist you in choosing the best chair for your child based on:

•     Your child's need for postural control and support
•     Your child's ability to push or control the chair
•     Your child's need for any adaptive devices
•     The environment in which your child will use the chair

Read more about available wheelchair donation programs that can make wheelchairs much more affordable.

Computers and Technology

In recent years, computer technology has dramatically improved the quality of life for children with special needs. Today, even children who have very little movement control can use a computer to communicate, learn and play, thanks to extra-large or onscreen keyboards and point-and-click devices that attach to the forehead. From adaptive video game controllers to voice synthesizers and word-prediction software, computers have opened a vast world for children with disabilities.

Braces

Braces may be fitted for limbs, joints or the back and used to correct or compensate for a variety of conditions. In children with disabilities, braces are often used to stretch muscles and increase mobility. If a doctor prescribes a brace for your child, be sure to ask about proper care and cleaning of the device. Then, check regularly to make sure the brace is in good condition and that your child does not have a rash or blister as a result of wearing the brace. Improper fit or malfunction of the brace may be harmful to your child.

Casts 

Doctors commonly use casts to prevent or correct contractures and deformities, alleviate spasticity and pain, or improve balance and function in children with disabilities. Because they may have to be replaced frequently as the child grows, splints and casts are often used as an alternative to more expensive orthotics.

Learn about Nutritional Care for Children with Birth Injuries.