Physical Challenges

A wide variety of physical and medical conditions challenge children. Some are present at birth; others are a result of disease or injury. This may interfere with performance in some important area of development. 

• Since physical challenges can present a wide range of needs, it's especially important to work with the family to understand the child’s specific needs. You can start by providing a safe physical environment and lots of encouragement for the child to be as independent as possible. 
• Depending on the child’s individual gifts and challenges, you may want to enlarge visuals or sign some of the songs. Be aware of food allergies or diabetes when serving snacks. Direct children’s natural curiosity about wheelchairs or other adaptive devices by letting children touch the special equipment (with the child's permission), or by asking the child to demonstrate how it works.