Winter is a Great Time to P.L.A.Y.

Written by: Amy Kerrigan, Community Education Specialist

In the winter there is snow. And when there is snow, we play! Who doesn't love building a snowman, having a snowball fight, or making snow angels? If you ask Jess Baird, playing in the snow is a "great multisensory experience" and a recommended activity for child development. And as a certified consultant for The P.L.A.Y. Project, she knows what she is talking about.

The P.L.A.Y. Project may sound like a guide for having fun, but it is so much more. It is a unique program designed for families who have children, ages 0-6 yrs, on the autism spectrum. A consultant works one-on-one with parents and empowers them with knowledge on using engaging activities in their everyday routines with their child(ren), who might have various sensory and developmental challenges. The Champaign County Board of DD (CCBDD) is very lucky to have Jess Baird as our in-house certified P.L.A.Y. Project consultant.

To participate in The P.L.A.Y. Project, a child must first be evaluated by CCBDD to determine eligibility for Early Intervention services. Anyone can make a referral for the initial evaluation. After evaluation, the CCBDD staff decides if the family is a good candidate for P.L.A.Y. Project.

​To start, simply contact the CCBDD Early Intervention Director, Jennifer Bradford at [email protected] to ask about referrals. Or you can start the referral process yourself by going to www.ohioearlyintervention.org.

​In the meantime, Jess offers ideas to support families with a child on the autism spectrum and to help all families start the holidays and new year with engaging activities.

1.  Connect with local Champaign County mom, Rhiannon Rose, through her blog www.autismandgo.com. This blog is an honest depiction of life with a child on the autism spectrum. Not only does Rhiannon share her experiences, but she also shares tips and tricks she has learned through the years. Finding support in your community and others who can relate to your situation can help alleviate stress.

Photo from the Autism and Go website.

2.​ Visit some of Jess Baird's favorite websites like www.asensorylife.com and  www.inspiredtreehouse.com. These sites offer a wealth of resources for helping children with high sensory needs. There are checklists, tips and tricks, research information, and fun therapeutic activities.

3.  Enjoy the winter! Participate in all the new senses and activities that can only happen in winter weather. Jess says, "My favorite winter activity (and every other season too) is getting outside to play." Bundle up in all the winter gear. Build with the snow. Make wet or snowy footprints. Breathe in the cold air. Jess also suggests, "If getting outside isn't possible, making indoor obstacle courses, forts, or crashing into pillow piles are all fun ways to get some energy out too."

Photo Credit: Rhiannon Rose (www.autismandgo.com)