Small Aids

In this section you can find information on small aid equipment recommended by NHS staff on a regular basis.

Angle-Board

 

The angle-board or writing slope encourages proper posture and alignment whilst sitting at a desk/table. Suitable for left and right handed users, there are several models on the market. With any model, the child places their work on top of it to write on and can also use it to position reading materials or an IT device if used.

 

For maximum benefit:

  • Ensure that the angle board is placed squarely on the desk. If it is a model with a lip, this should be flush against the edge of the desktop.
  • Ensure that the child places their work on top of the green/clear writing surface. If it tends to slip off, use blue-tack drawing board clips or a piece of Dycem to secure it.

 

The angle board should be used as long as it is deemed both beneficial by the teacher and acceptable to the pupil. A lever arch file can be used once the child reaches secondary transition.

Movin’sit Cushion

 

A Movin’sit Cushion is a dynamic cushion that activates intrinsic trunk muscles to support the spine. The wedge shape encourages proper posture and alignment whilst sitting at a desk/table and the gentle movement provided enables the child to focus on activities without excessive movement. For maximum benefit follow the guidelines below:

  • Ensure that the cushion is placed squarely on the chair and does not overhang the front of the chair. The thick end of the wedge should be placed to the rear of the seat.
  • Ensure that the cushion is not over-inflated as not only will this be uncomfortable for the child but can also induce an adverse reaction and be over stimulating. Inflate only to approximately half-full.
  • Ensure that the plug is pushed fully into the cushion so that it lies flush with the rear surface of the cushion.
  • Ideally, the cushion should be studded side up; however some children with tactile sensitivities find this painful and it can be used smooth side up.
  • Whilst most children are able to tolerate sitting on the cushion for the entire school day, some children require a phased introduction to it. Introduce the cushion during specific work activities and gradually extend the period of use.
  • Some children may benefit from using the cushion only for specific periods with a break in between. The best way to discover what works is to experiment and observe the child, and also to ask the child.

 

The Movin’sit should continue to be used for as long as it is deemed both beneficial by the teacher and acceptable to the pupil. At secondary movement between classes may be sufficient.

Scissors

 

Some children with reduced hand strength or motor control find scissor control challenging.  There are many different adapted scissors available which can allow a child to be independent in scissor and cutting activities.

 

For More Information

Theraputty

 

Use the Theraputty provided per the activity sheet provided. Additional activities can be provided, please contact your therapist.

 

  • For best results, Theraputty activities should be completed daily both at school (either prior to writing tasks or first thing each morning) and at home (prior to homework or functional fine motor activities e.g. eating with cutlery).
  • Wash hands before and after using the Theraputty, to keep it clean and avoid contamination and cross infection.
  • Ideally, only one child should use the Theraputty, for infection control purposes.
  • Work at a table to avoid getting putty on clothes/stuck on the carpet.
  • Avoid stretching the putty so far that it becomes very fine, it may splinter off into little pieces and get stuck on clothes/the table/the carpet.
  • To remove fine bits of putty from clothes/surfaces, daub with a larger blob.
  • To remove stains: (Test an inconspicuous spot first, results not guaranteed) 
    Scrape excess putty off with a blunt knife or metal spoon. Spray stain with WD-40; allow to stand for a few minutes. Scrape off excess putty again; re-spray with WD-40 and wipe with cotton wool balls. Wipe off any remaining stain or residue with a cloth/sponge dampened with water and washing up liquid.

 

The Theraputty should continue to be used for as long as it is deemed both beneficial by the teacher and acceptable to the pupil. If the child complains of pain, stop use immediately and contact the department.

For More Information

Caring Cutlery

 

Caring Cutlery helps a child to hold the cutlery in the most efficient way and encourages independence with cutting up food. The handles have finger indents, where the index fingers are placed, and contoured handles, to make them easier to hold. For maximum benefit the child should be supervised when using the cutlery initially to ensure their fingers are positioned correctly.


The cutlery should be used as long as it is deemed both beneficial by the parent / teacher and acceptable to the child. Once the child is proficient using the cutlery they can try standard cutlery.

For More Information

Adjustable Height Bath Step

 

Some children require a step in order to access the toilet safely. An adjustable height bath step will meet the child’s needs. An adjustable height bath step can also be used when a child's feet don't touch the floor when sitting in a classroom or dining chair to provide support and stability.

Equipment

Next Section Equipment