Date: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 4:30 PM- Tuesday, May 13, 2025 5:30 PM
Location: RESNA 2025 @ RehabWeek Sheraton Downtown Riverside Chicago, IL
Lead/Instructor: Mia Hoffman, University of Washington

Abstract: Two experienced pediatric rehabilitation engineers will guide you beyond switch-adapted toys to the exciting world of therapeutic gaming. We’ll explore how to use various switches to access engaging therapeutic games. You’ll learn practical strategies for game selection tailored to different ages, skill levels, and abilities, ensuring each game is vision-friendly, appropriately timed, and cognitively suitable. We’ll also introduce a platform for designing simple games customized to your clients’ interests. Therapeutic gaming isn’t just fun—it’s a powerful tool for developing skills, from augmentative and alternative communication to powered wheelchair control. Participants will interact with different gaming setups and platforms, gaining hands-on experience applicable to speech, physical, or occupational therapy. Join us to set up your own therapeutic gaming system and integrate it into your practice, making therapy sessions more engaging and effective for your pediatric clients.

Learning Outcomes: Identify different types of switches and other controls. Understand how to modify and position gaming controls for pediatric clients. Select games that match a child’s interests, cognition, and abilities. Learn how to use free tools currently on the market to create simple custom games that meet specific therapeutic goals.