The Swedish superstore IKEA often is a place we spend more hours than planned, navigating the florescent lighted maze of homewares, decor, and furniture. Whether you love spending these hours wandering amongst all the bits and bobs at a leisurely pace, or you’re there on a mission to grab the one thing on your list, it’s not uncommon to end up walking out with an oversized blue bag of goodies.
Next trip, consider these great finds to help your kids on their therapy journey!
A push along walking wagon is beneficial for a child who is learning to take steps but isn’t ready to let go. Physically, your child can use the wagon to pull themselves up into standing and then have stable support to take steps forward with or without your help. View here: https://www.ikea.com/au/en/p/mula-toddle-truck-green-birch-10283579/
Top tips for using a walking wagon: 1. Weighting the wagon down with heavy books or items initially allows for the most stability making it easier for your child to control their speed. 2. Consider the flooring you are on. Softer flooring such as carpets or rugs will slow the walker for beginners. A smooth, hard floor like floorboards or tiles will allow wheels to spin faster for more of a challenge.
A chair in egg form that can spin with the optional hood is a favourite item if your child needs vestibular input or a dark cozy space for regulation.
Top tips for the spinning chair: Use the spinning feature of the chair in moderation, as spinning can have a delayed sensory response. Too much spinning can heighten your child instead of calming them down.
View here: https://www.ikea.com/au/en/p/ikea-ps-loemsk-swivel-armchair-white-red-90407137/
This affordable table option has three different height settings, can be easily adjusted using wingnuts and can act as a tilting tabletop. As an additional feature, it has a wooden border on three sides, so your child doesn’t have to worry about their pencils and toys falling off the edge.
View here: https://www.ikea.com/au/en/p/flisat-childrens-desk-adjustable-60293062/
Everyone needs a gym mat for therapy at home, and this one is colourful and folds up, making it practical and appealing for your child’s space.
View here: https://www.ikea.com/au/en/p/plufsig-folding-gym-mat-green-90262832/
This dart game is perfect for practising both gross motor skills and early educational concepts. The pieces are soft, making them great for throwing practice inside without the fear of damaging your walls and television. The board also has two sides to practice cognitive tasks, such as identifying colours and numbers.
View here: https://www.ikea.com/au/en/p/lustigt-dart-game-70385363
Amelia is passionate about empowering families and children to be independent, confident and develop in their everyday life. She believes children learn best when they are having fun and working towards their goals.
