Games provide alternative ways for kids with disabilities to understand the world around them. Many games for learning-disabled kids involve spelling exercises or basic math questions and help sharpen and challenge their minds. In addition, outdoor games help keep kids active and socially integrated.
Card Reading and Running Game
This game is designed to improve children's reading abilities and ability to identify words verbally. Supply each child with a clipboard, seven clothespins and seven index cards. On the board, write out seven words that each child can copy onto his seven index cards. Have the children write them out in pencil and then trace them with a marker.
Next, go to a park and section off a start line and finish line. Have all of the kids attach their words to their clipboards and leave them at the finish line. With everyone at the starting line, call out a word and have the kids run to the finish line to find the words, grab them off the clipboards and bring them back to you. The child who most often chooses the correct word is the winner.
Math Hopscotch
This game is designed to help learning-disabled children improve their math skills while keeping active. Go to a playground with your child and draw several hopscotch squares. Write numbers in each square, making sure that the numbers will multiple, divide, add or subtract into each other. Have your child stand at the starting line and wait for you to call out a math problem.
Once you call out a problem, your child should hop to the two corresponding numbers and then to the problem's solution. Because you are dealing with a small group of numbers, your child will soon be able to recognize patterns and relationships between these numbers.
Counting Game
This game is designed to help your child develop basic counting skills. Sit down with several pieces of paper and a pen. Write down the numbers 1 through 20 with a bold pen on separate sheets. Place the numbers on the floor. Have your child pick up all the pieces and throw them into the air. Once they land, have her pick them up and attempt to put them in order. Help her by placing the first and last numbers down and letting her fill in the middle numbers.
While she is putting the numbers in order, time her to get an idea of how long it takes her to perform the task. Tell her the time at the end of the exercise to give her motivation to improve the next time she plays the game.
