Playing games with your child who uses a wheelchair can be a fun and rewarding experience for both of you. It’s important to remember that your child’s physical abilities may differ from those of other children, but that shouldn’t stop you from having a great time together.
As a special needs mom, I’ve learned that being prepared is one of the best ways to 𝑒𝑛𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒 yourself and your child when it comes to games at birthday parties, playdates, family gatherings, children’s church, or just a quick visit to the park.
It can be challenging for your child, heart-breaking for you, and nerve-racking for the people around you, as they quite possibly don’t know how to be inclusive or handle the situation. Most times they’re not sure what your child is capable of when it comes to playing games in a wheelchair.
Let’s look at some wheelchair-friendly games you can suggest, that will result in fun and inclusiveness.
Games you can play inside:
- Card games: Card games like Go Fish, War, and Uno are all great options for kids in wheelchairs. They’re easy to play and don’t require any physical activity. Your child can hold the cards and play just like any other child.
- Board games: Many classic board games like Chutes and Ladders, Candyland, and Sorry! are accessible to children in wheelchairs. Look for games with large pieces and clear spaces to move around the board.
- Video games: Video games are a great option for kids who may not be able to participate in physical activities. There are a wide variety of games available that can be played with a standard game controller or adapted for different types of accessibility needs.
- Puzzles: Puzzles are a great way to improve problem-solving skills and can be done while sitting at a table. Look for large, easy-to-handle pieces for children who may have difficulty with fine motor skills.
- Scavenger hunts: Scavenger hunts can be a fun way to explore the outdoors or different areas of your home. Make a list of items for your child to find, and set a timer to make it more challenging.
- Musical chairs: Musical chairs can be adapted for children in wheelchairs by simply having them move around the chairs with their hands or by having other children push them around the circle.
- Charades: Charades is a fun game that can be played while sitting down. Simply act out different words or phrases and have your child guess what you’re trying to convey.
Playing outside can also be a great way to enjoy the fresh air and physical activity with your child who uses a wheelchair.
Here are some games that you can play outside:
- Wheelchair obstacle course: Create an obstacle course in your backyard or a nearby park using cones, ramps, and other props. Encourage your child to navigate the course using their wheelchair, and time them to make it more challenging.
- Bocce ball: Bocce ball is a fun and accessible outdoor game that can be played on a level surface. Your child can use a ramp to help them roll the balls toward the target, and you can take turns playing together.
- Frisbee: Playing catch with a Frisbee can be a fun and low-impact way to enjoy the outdoors with your child. Try different throwing techniques and encourage your child to catch the Frisbee in their lap or with a mitt.
- Water balloon toss: On a hot day, fill up some water balloons and have a water balloon toss with your child. You can also play a game of water balloon catch, where you and your child try to catch the balloons without them breaking.
- Tug of War: Tug of War is a classic outdoor game that can be adapted for children in wheelchairs. Instead of pulling with their arms, your child can use their wheelchair to anchor themselves, and you can pull from the other end of the rope.
- Scavenger hunt: Take your scavenger hunt outside by hiding items around your backyard or a nearby park. Make a list of items for your child to find, and work together to check them off the list.
- Roll and catch: Set up a target, such as a hula hoop or a bucket, and take turns rolling a ball towards it. See who can get the closest or who can make it in the bucket.
Remember to choose games that your child enjoys and that are appropriate for their physical abilities. Make adaptations as needed to ensure that they feel included and have a great time.
Playing games together is a great way to bond and create lasting memories!
* Please feel free to email me with more suggestions!
