Activities for Individuals With Developmental Disabilities

Developmental disabilities are defects that occur during pregnancy or immediately following birth and cause lifelong difficulties. The difficulties can range from mild to severe and include such disorders as Down syndrome and autism. People with developmental disabilities suffer delays in physical, cognitive and self-living skills and can benefit from a variety of activities to strengthen or improve those deficits.

  1. Dance and Movement Activities

    • People with developmental disabilities may struggle with or be limited in physical movements. Dance and movement activities can strengthen weak muscles or provide skills training for people with disabilities.

      Have several people sit in a circle and play some upbeat music. One by one have the participants enter the circle and perform a dance move. The other participants will imitate the movement to the best of their ability. The person in the circle chooses the next person to enter and perform a move.

      For participants limited to a wheelchair or walker, you can perform sit down dances and focus on the upper body and arm movements. Be expressive and bold in the movements and encourage your participants to do the same.

    Arts and Crafts Activities

    • Arts and crafts activities can reduce stress, promote self-esteem and strengthen fine motor skills for people with developmental disabilities. Choose activities on par with your participants' skill levels. All participants can generally paint, draw or mold clay, but more complex tasks, such as beading or sculpting might be reserved for more apt participants.

      Cooking is another activity to help people with development disabilities regain independence and foster teamwork skills. Be sure to supervise any cooking activities and have safety equipment, such as a fire extinguisher, easily accessible to prevent injury.

    Social Activities

    • People with developmental disabilities can feel isolated due to their problems, so activities to promote socialization are important. Get together with a large or small group of people and engage in activities to promote talking, reminiscing and learning.

      Create a mock cafe, complete with coffee and treats for elderly people to relax and chat. Play soothing music in the background to aid in relaxation and keep the conversation flowing. Other ideas include a spa day, beach party or Chinese auction to get people working together while having some fun.

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