From Diagnosis to Play: Navigating the NDIS Toy Shop for Newcomers

Receiving a diagnosis for your child that qualifies them for support under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) may both come as a relief and a struggle for parents. We understand that as a parent, you want to make sure you are able to give your child the best care for their diagnosis, that you give them everything they need to have a happy childhood. 

Luckily, aside from professional and medical support, there are resources that you can easily use to give your children to enhance their play and recreation time and make it into an avenue for learning -- being able to develop social and motor skills as needed.

So, what resources can you use from NDIS-approved toys to help in your child’s recreation and development?

Why is Playing Important in Your Child’s Development? 

Before choosing what toys and resources you'll use to help your children with their development, it's important to know why play is so crucial for a child's growth. 

Play isn't just for fun; it's a key activity that helps kids grow in their thinking, physical skills, social skills, and emotions. For children with disabilities, the right toys and activities can really help in their development.

What is the NDIS?

If you're new to what the NDIS is, the first thing to do is learn how it works and what help you can get. 

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) gives money for different types of support, like resources and tools that can help a child grow. To get these resources, you need to make an NDIS plan. This means meeting with an NDIS planner to talk about your child's needs and goals.

Navigating the NDIS Toy Shop for Newcomers 

Identify Your Child’s Needs

The first step in choosing the right toys is knowing what your child needs. This might mean talking to therapists or teachers who can suggest the best resources. Think about these factors:

• Motor Skills: Toys that promote fine and gross motor skills, such as building blocks, puzzles, and ride-on resources.
• Sensory Development: Items that stimulate the senses, including textured toys, sensory balls, and musical instruments.
• Cognitive Development: Educational games, problem-solving resources, and activities that promote critical thinking.
• Social and Emotional Skills: Role-playing toys, board games, and interactive activities that encourage social interaction and emotional regulation.

Set a Budget

Make a list of the toys and resources you think will help the most and rank them by how much your child needs them. Remember, the NDIS Toy Shop has items at different prices, so you can find things that fit your budget.

Read Reviews and Recommendations

Take the time to read reviews from different parents  to get a sense of which resources have been effective for children with similar needs. Additionally, consider seeking advice from your child’s therapists or support workers, who may have specific recommendations based on their expertise.

Making the Most of Your Selections

Once you’ve selected the toys and resources, it’s important to integrate them into your child’s daily routine effectively. Here are some tips to maximise the benefits:

Create a Structured Play Environment

Set up a dedicated play area that is free from distractions and filled with a variety of toys and activities. This space should be safe and inviting, encouraging your child to explore and engage with the toys.

Incorporate Play into Daily Routines

Integrate play into everyday activities. For example, use a puzzle or sorting game during meal prep time or a sensory toy during bath time. This approach helps reinforce skills in different contexts and keeps playtime fresh and engaging.

Encourage Social Play

If possible, involve siblings, friends, or peers in playtime. Social interaction is crucial for developing communication and social skills. Encourage turn-taking, sharing, and cooperative play to enhance these skills.

Tracking Progress and Adjusting

Monitoring your child’s progress with their new resources is key to ensuring they are meeting their developmental goals. 

Keep track of any improvements or challenges, and be prepared to adjust your selections as needed. Regularly consult with your child’s therapists and support workers to get their input and recommendations.

Ready to begin your collection of Budget-Friendly NDIS-Approved Toys? 

The journey from diagnosis to play is filled with opportunities for growth and development. By effectively navigating NDIS-approved toys and resources, you can provide your child with the tools they need to thrive. 

Remember to start by understanding your child’s specific needs, set a budget, read reviews, and integrate play into daily routines. With patience and persistence, you’ll find that the right resources can make a world of difference in your child’s development.

If you’re a parent or teacher in need of the right kind of tools to help with your child’s development, then you’ve come to the right place.