Lekotek of Georgia, Inc.

The Compuplay program is designed to meet the needs of individuals between the ages of 2 and 22. Youngsters and parents attend five one-hour, weekly family sessions to enjoy and learn from computer play. Compuplay focuses on the use of adaptive peripherals (alternative input devices to the standard mouse), customized equipment and software to enhance speech, writing, reading, cognitive, and fine-motor skills. State-of-the--art technology equalizes the playing field making it possible for everyone to participate together. Staff-written software with large icons makes it possible for children with visual impairments and fine motor delays to use the programs. Adapted software that includes auditory and visual scanning for children who are blind or hearing impaired is available. With an array of color, graphics, music, and sound prompts, these programs provide opportunities for successful learning. Hardware options include adapted joysticks, head mice, touch screens, switch adapted trackballs, keyboards with keyguards, and switches for scanning. Children who cannot use a keyboard, see the screen, or read a printed page, can use these devices. During Compuplay, children enjoy reading and writing stories, playing music, learning math concepts, word processing, and problem solving. Computer assisted learning is making it possible for children with disabilities to participate with their siblings and peers.

During the past decade, there has been a significant increase in premature births resulting in developmental delays and lengthy hospital stays. Conducting play sessions at the hospital helps to normalize the hospital environment as infants, parents, grandparents, and siblings interact with one another and learn through play. Parents frequently comment, “With each bag of toys, Lekotek brought hope and joy.” In addition to neonatal play sessions, Lekotek leaders work with children with disabilities of all ages who are hospitalized. With a laptop and a Lekotek bag filled with developmentally appropriate toys, Lekotek leaders conduct hospital play sessions. Lekotek plans to expand its relationship with Atlanta-area hospitals and neonatal units.

Lekotek offers an annual four-week summer computer camp for children between the ages of 4 and 13. Children with disabilities are asked to invite a sibling or friend to participate with them. Technology is an equalizer as children with and without disabilities participate together.

Sibshops create opportunities for brothers and sisters of children with special needs to meet other siblings and gain support in a fun atmosphere. Brothers and sisters who have the longest relationship with the person with special needs have much to offer each other. The Sibshop model intersperses information and discussion activities with ice-breakers, fun games, and computer activities. Sibshops are not therapy, although their effect may be therapeutic. Lekotek is extremely proud to be a registered Sibshop that has been certified by Don Meyer and the Sibling Support Project.

For adolescents who “graduate” from play sessions, club creates learning and social opportunities for children with disabilities to play and learn together. Typical peers from Atlanta area high schools and colleges participate and act as role models and peer mentors.