New Resource: App and Card Game Companion + AAC Communication Board: Guess Who?

Posted on December 18, 2022 by OMazing Kids

✅ New Resource: App and Card Game Companion + AAC Communication Board: Guess Who?, https://bit.ly/GuessWhoAppAndCardGameCompanion ✅

For use with the Guess Who? Meet the Crew app: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/guess-who/id1624777523 (iOS Universal, iOS 11.0 or later. $2.99, prices vary outside of USA based on exchange rate). There isn’t an Android version of this app yet.

Update 2/25/23: An Android version is now available in the Google Play App Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.playdatedigital.guesswho (freenium – the app is free with the first three levels included then an IAP (in app purchase) of $2.99 is required to unlock the rest of the app. I was able to use a $2.00 off coupon that was available when I went to purchase it so I got it for $0.99). Note: This app was not compatible for download on my Amazon Fire tablet that I have the Google Play App Store side loaded on. I did not find this app in the Amazon Appstore.

And the Guess Who? Card Game: https://a.co/d/90F0G6A

TPT Preview Video:

Video about the Guess Who? Meet the Crew app:

Here’s the review that I left on the App Store:

The 2.0 app update incorporated my suggestion of offering a way to toggle off the background music. Love it!

So excited that they incorporated my feedback! The 2.0 update added a way to toggle off the background music while still allowing the voiceovers and sound effects. I just a submitted an update for my review to say “thanks” ⬇️

Update: I decided to purchase the in-app purchase for the Transformers themed card deck. It is more challenging but would be fun for kids who have a high interest in Transformers. Update 2: I didn’t purchase this additional deck on Android since I already have it on iOS and prefer the original deck vs. this add on deck.

Have questions? The best way to reach me is via Facebook messaging over on my OMazing Kids page: https://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsAAC/

Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC, OMazing Kids AAC Consulting

• Teachers Pay Teachers Store: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Omazing-Kids-Aac-Consulting

• YouTube: https://youtube.com/user/amoorad1

• Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/omazingkidsaac

• OMazing Kids AAC Consulting Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsAAC/

• AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/

• GoTalk Now AAC & GoVisual Visual Scene Apps – Ideas and Sharing Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/GoTalkNowAACappGroup

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omazingkidsaac

• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/amoorad

• Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

• Linktree: https://linktr.ee/amoorad1

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelamooradomazingkidsaac

• Blog: https://omazingkidsllc.com

* Archived * The iPad & the SLP in 2020 and Beyond: Interactive PDF Resource List of iOS apps, Boom Cards, Teachers Pay Teachers materials, Teletherapy Resources and Online Resources – organized by goal areas, themes and topics (updated 1-14-21)

Posted on November 29, 2020 by OMazing Kids

9/21/21: An expanded version of this resource that also includes app demo videos is available on my TPT store. Ultimate App and Digital Resource Guide for SLPs: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Ultimate-App-and-Digital-Resource-Guide-for-SLPs-7267356

OMazing Kids SLP Retirement Sale: What I Have & Where I Will Be Selling It

Posted on April 14, 2018 by OMazing Kids

OMazing Kids SLP Retirement Sale

There have been LOTS of folks interested in what is happening to my stash of materials, books, games, toys, etc. when I retire. I have been flooded with Facebook messages on my personal account and on OMazing Kids. So much so that I realized that I need to write this blog post with details to make it easier to share.
.
First off here’s what I DON’T have: no tests, no test protocols, no Kaufman apraxia kits, no decks of articulation cards, no materials for feeding & swallowing. The hospital where I work has those. Plus I typically use my iPad with high quality apps to work on articulation. I am not selling my Boardmaker CD.
.
Here’s what I DO have and where I will be selling those items. I am only shipping items within the USA:

Books (regular kids picture books that I have organized by themes): I have LOTS of these books. All are in great condition (may have name on cover). A few are board books, a few are paperback and most are hardcover. These can be shipped inexpensively via media mail shipping. I am selling these books in my own OMazing Kids SLP Retirement Sale group since the group has gained quite a few members and things are now selling pretty quickly there 😃.
.
Plush Book Buddies: I have a few that I will be selling as a Book + Book Buddy set and several plush Book Buddies that I will be selling separately. Prices will vary and will be included in that post in my own OMazing Kids SLP Retirement Sale group. Plush Book Buddies cannot be shipped via media mail. The shipping costs will be based on the weight, size of box, how many zones it crosses in shipping, etc.
.
Books for targeting Core Vocabulary for AAC users: I will be selling these in my own OMazing Kids SLP Retirement Sale group. These are priced a little higher than my regular book bundles due to their unique usefulness in targeting specific goals.
.
Specialty books (books for kids yoga, books to target specific speech & language goals, etc.) – I will be selling these in my own OMazing Kids SLP Retirement Sale group. These are priced a little higher than my regular book bundles due to their unique usefulness in targeting specific goals.

Kids music CDs – I have a lot of great kids music that I used when teaching a variety of groups and during therapy sessions. I also have kids yoga CDs. I will be selling all of them either in my own OMazing Kids SLP Retirement Sale group or my garage sale. Prices vary. See list on each post. All in very good condition. May have name on cover and/or on the CD. These can be shipped inexpensively via media mail shipping.
.
Kids DVDs – I have several kids yoga and mindfulness DVDs and a few other kids DVDs. All are in good condition (may have name on cover). Prices vary. They will be sold in the CD post described above. These can be shipped inexpensively via media mail shipping.
.
Therapy books – including several books from Hanen, books for teaching social skills, books for teaching self regulation skills, books with strategies for stuttering, language, Autism, early literacy, AAC manuals, etc…. Prices will vary. all are in good condition (may have name on cover) and can be shipped inexpensively via media mail. These will be sold in my own OMazing Kids SLP Retirement group. Some may be sold as part of “Build your own specialty book bundles” (see info above).
.
Therapy card decks & materials: I have a few Super Duper fun decks (Function Match Up, Yes/No, Multiple Meaning Words, Syllable Drilling, What Does Miss Bee See, Rebus Infer a Word, Auditory Memory for WH questions fun deck, Phonemic Awareness). Also have from Super Duper: Anytime Go Togethers, Webber Inferencing Big Deck, Sequencing Verb Tenses. Lots of other language stuff from various companies. All are in good condition (may have name on box). Several are hard to find since they are no longer available from that company. These items cannot be shipped via media mail. The shipping costs will be based on the weight, size of box, how many zones it crosses in shipping, etc. (I’ve seen conflicting info about whether “flash cards” are considered eligible for media mail. I asked in person at my local post office and even they did not have a definitive answer…. so it’s not worth risking especially since many are in metal storage tins.). Given the shipping costs I anticipate selling most of these items at my in home garage sale (see details below).
.
Therapy games: I have a few games specifically designed for language, spatial concepts, storytelling, categories, colors, shapes, articulation, early literacy, etc…. These items cannot be shipped via media mail. The shipping costs will be based on the weight, size of box, how many zones it crosses in shipping, etc. Given the shipping costs I anticipate selling most of my therapy games at my in home garage sale (see details below).
.
Games: I have lots of games. All are in good condition. I even have the much sought after Cranium Cariboo (in pristine condition – Update: SOLD) and also much sought after Candyland Castle (also in pristine condition). Due to the demand for those two games I will be selling them on my own OMazing Kids page or my OMazing Kids SLP Retirement Sale group. Games cannot be shipped via media mail. The shipping costs will be based on the weight, size of box, how many zones it crosses in shipping, etc. Given the shipping costs I anticipate selling most of my games at my in home garage sale (see details below).
.
Toys: I have a ton of toys. All are in good working condition. I have several items by Melissa & Doug, Fisher Price, Playskool, etc. Also have several sensory items. Toys cannot be shipped via media mail. The shipping costs will be based on the weight, size of box, how many zones it crosses in shipping, etc. Given the shipping costs I anticipate selling most of my toys at my in home garage sale (see details below).

Other stuff:

Materials for making communication books & visual schedules
Storage containers, work bins, finished bins
AAC stuff
Visual supports & Time Timers
Things that have been symbol adapted
Symbol-supported teaching materials
a Sensory Storytime kit for “Dog’s Colorful Day”
an Owl Bumpidoodle cushion & things for a “calm down” kit
Tiggly stylus sets
Kids styluses
Props used in kids yoga classes
Kids yoga card decks
iON Clipster Bluetooth speakers (used to amplify iPad for AAC)
Bluebee Pals Bluetooth plush animal speakers
Posters
Clipboards
Award certificates (what I used when kids “graduated” from therapy)
Other random stuff….. etc….
.

Tips for Facebook buy-sell-trade groups:

join my OMazing Kids SLP Retirement Sale group: (group set to inactive now)
be sure to change the settings for “notifications” to “all posts”.
Payment is made via PayPal. If purchasing a bundle you must have the minimum number of items or $ amount for that bundle. Then I will send an invoice via PayPal. Please make sure your mailing address is correct in the PayPal system. After you pay your invoice that is the address that I will use to ship items to you.

*** UPDATE: I will no longer be selling things in any BST group other than my own OMazing Kids SLP Retirement Sale group. Too many fishy shenanigans going on in other groups. ****

.
In Home Garage Sale: For those of you who live in Oklahoma (or want to make a road trip here) here are details about my in home garage sale. I have my living room set up with shelving, bookcases & tables full of all the stuff listed above. I’m trying to sell off most of the stuff that can be shipped via media mail before then…. ’cause right now there is barely a path. I knew I had a lot of stuff but the sheer magnitude of my speechie hoarding is now very apparent that I have it all in my living room (and have totally taken over the tables in my kitchen and dining room as I sort, weigh and prep for mailing items. You should have seen the looks that I got lugging my huge tub filled with boxes into the Post Office to ship earlier this week 👀 Yup. I was “that” person we all hate being behind 😂🤣). I’ll post a pic on my page and group once I get everything organized and priced so you can see what I mean by a “SLP hoarders stash”.

When: Saturday, May 19, 2018 at 9:00am-1:00pm CST

Where: in the living room of my home in Norman, Oklahoma. Please send me a private Facebook message for my address. Please only message me if you will be coming and please don’t pass my address along to anyone else. I don’t want the general public showing up. This is a specialty sale geared towards therapists (SLP, OT, PT) and teachers.

Payment Options: Cash only at the in home garage sale.

Note: I picked the date & time to avoid conflicts with most graduation ceremonies. Since severe weather can be possible here in May please check my OMazing Kids page (https://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga/) or OMazing Kids SLP Retirement Sale Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/121442208430173/) for announcements regarding weather related changes.

Items will be for sale first come-first served.

I cannot hold items since I need to get everything sold and paid for quickly to be able to prepare for selling our home.

Also there are no returns or exchanges for this same reason.
.
Feel free to message me on Facebook with any questions.
.
Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC
Facebook Messaging for OMazing Kids: http://m.me/OMazingKidsYoga (note: Facebook frequently changes the link to messaging so if this one doesn’t work head over to my page and click on the “Send Message” button)
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga

Adapted Games for Inclusive Play: Candy Land (updated 3/19/24)

Posted on July 26, 2016 by OMazing Kids

Adapted Games for Inclusive Play: Candy Land

[Note 3/19/24: This blog post was originally written in 2016. Sadly some of the websites or blogs linked have disappeared over the years]

I’ve been looking for a way to make the Candy Land game accessible for kids with special needs and found a great solution by combing an app, a specific version of the board game and ideas from an old journal article and a few websites!

Who knew that there has been SO many different versions of this game over the years and that each version has slightly different pictures on the “picture squares” in the game?

Well there has been and I was determined to get the version of the board game that matched up to this app. Could have sworn that I already had the Candy Land board game but looked through my entire stash of materials and couldn’t find it. If I had found it and it wasn’t the right version, my plan was to take screenshots of the pink picture squares from the app and attach them to the game board to make it match.
.

After extensive research I finally figured out which version of the Candy Land board game matches this app. I bought “Candy Land – The Kingdom of Sweets Board Game” (2010) on Amazon for $7.49: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00000DMF5 and this app for $.99 (Candy Cards by Panther Technology, https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/candy-cards/id554983778?mt=8 , iOS 3.2 or later, Universal app that works on iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch). I was initially leery of the app since it had not been updated since 2012 but at the price of $.99 decided to try it out. I’m pleased to report that it worked fine on my iPad Air (running iOS 9.3.1) and on my iPhone 5 (running iOS 9.3.2). The only quirky thing I noted when using the app on an iPhone is that the app did not adjust to landscape orientation and had a small black band of dead space at the top and bottom of the screen.

Check out all the options in this app’s settings area:

Under “Accessibility” settings:

“Safety Time”: For kids who tend to tap repetitively, you can lock the screen for 2, 3, 5 or 10 seconds after drawing each card.
The “Target” feature can be centered, appear at random places, or even move around the screen if you are wanting to work on “targeted touch”. When “target” is toggled off, you can tap anywhere on the screen to “draw” a card (great for kids with more severe motor impairments).

Under “Play Settings”, you can toggle on/off the background music, the card count, and sound effects and select one of four backgrounds (grey metal, orange, candy stripe and my personal fave… a calming green).

See more about the app on the developer’s website: http://panthertechnology.com/products/panther-candy-cards/

*** Update 3/19/24: Sadly this app by Panther Technology disappeared several years ago. See info about a new free app from a different app developer below ***

.
So for the bargain price of $8.48 I now have a version of this classic kids game that is more inclusive of kids of a wide range of abilities and needs. I plan on modifying play further when I am in a group or have parents and/or siblings present by playing as “teams” where one teammate’s job is to “draw” the card using the app and the other teammate’s job is to move the game piece. Another option in a 1-on-1 session would be for you and the child to use it as a “cooperative” game and work together as a team to move one of the game pieces to the castle.

I am also planning on incorporating the ideas for adaptations & task analysis from the journal article “Everyone Can Play!: Adapting the Candy Land Board Game TEACHING Exceptional Children July-August 1996 28: 28-33” (yes I realize the article is 20 years old but the concepts are still valid today). I saved a PDF of the full article out on Dropbox: https://www.dropbox.com/s/1p1pimgnjmm52wp/Everyone%20Can%20Play%20-%20Adapting%20the%20Candy%20Land%20Board%20Game.pdf?dl=0

{No Prep SLP Tips: Candy Land} https://omazingkidsllc.com/2016/07/28/no-prep-slp-tips-candy-land/

Additional ideas:

http://adaptedcurriculumclassroom.blogspot.com/2011/09/fun-friday-candyland.html
http://www.mydynamictherapy.com/blog/lets-play-board-games-adapting-games-for-children-with-severe-speech-and-physical-impairments
http://www.aacreatively.com/?p=557
http://www.wonderbaby.org/resources/accessible-candy-land (textured adaptation for visual impairments)
http://wheredidthebirdgo.com/2012/10/candy-land-more-than-just-a-game/ (to teach sequencing)

Check out these great Pinterest boards full of game adaptation ideas:

And lots of materials created by SLPs on TPT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Browse/PreK-12-Subject-Area/Speech-Therapy/Search:candy+land. I especially like this self esteem conversation prompts freebie: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Esteem-Prompts-for-Candy-Land-1152578

Oooh… just saw this fun idea to combine Candy Land + the Name That Word Game. Love finding new ways to use materials that I already own! I got my copy of that game several years ago at a back-to-school sale at a teacher supply store but saw that it’s available on Amazon.

http://millionsoffingerprints.blogspot.com/2013/05/today-in-speech-therapywe-played-candy.html

Update 3/19/24: Fishdog.net released their new FREE Candy Cards app today: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/candy-cards/id6478815300, iOS Universal, iOS 12.0 or later + Mac on macOS 10.15 or later + Apple Vision on visionOS 1.0 or later.

It appears to match this version of the Candy Land board game: https://shop.hasbro.com/en-us/product/candy-land-game/C4E461C2-5056-9047-F5F7-F005920A3999

Check out the Ultimate App and Digital Resource Guide for SLPs: https://bit.ly/UltimateAppDigitalResourceGuideSLP & TherAPPy Tools: iPad Apps for Pediatric SLPs (Recorded Webinar & Handouts): https://bit.ly/TherAPPyWebinar

Looking for in-depth AAC feature matching resources? See this blog post: https://bit.ly/5aacFeatureMatchingResources. That post also includes videos comparing AAC apps on various devices on various platforms.

Looking for more AAC resources? Check out the Resource Links page my blog: https://omazingkidsllc.com/omazing-kids-aac-resource-links

Have a question? The best way to reach me is via Facebook messaging over on my OMazing Kids page: https://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsAAC/

Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC, OMazing Kids AAC Consulting

• Teachers Pay Teachers Store: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Omazing-Kids-Aac-Consulting

• YouTube: https://youtube.com/user/amoorad1

• Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/omazingkidsaac

• OMazing Kids AAC Consulting Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsAAC/

• AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/

• GoTalk Now AAC & GoVisual Visual Scene Apps – Ideas and Sharing Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/GoTalkNowAACappGroup

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omazingkidsaac

• Instagram Threads: https://www.threads.net/@omazingkidsaac

• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/amoorad

• Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

• Linktree: https://linktr.ee/amoorad1

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelamooradomazingkidsaac

• Blog: https://omazingkidsllc.com / Resource Links page: https://omazingkidsllc.com/omazing-kids-aac-resource-links

The iPad & the SLP Toolbox

Posted on June 9, 2016 by OMazing Kids

.
Super Duper artic flashcards, Fisher Price Puppy’s Home, Fisher Price Piggy Bank, Cranium Cariboo, PlayDoh, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, communication devices, TPT printable products. All very common items in the typical SLP toolbox. Nobody freaks out if you mention them. Nobody asks “Where’s the evidence based data?” for use of the “Cranium Cariboo” game or “The Very Hungry Caterpillar”. But mention use of an iPad in therapy and you will likely encounter a very different response.

I feel a need to write this post since I frequently see posts or comments in SLP Facebook groups about how they would “never” use an iPad in therapy (thanks in part to ASHA’s misguided assault on tech use in the past two BHSM campaigns). That’s unfortunate since those SLPs are truly missing an important tool in their toolbox. It would be like a home builder refusing to use an electric nail gun and only building homes by hand with a hammer and nails.

Many high quality apps specifically designed by SLPs for SLPs allow you to do in-app data collection, look at data over time, e-mail reports, and swipe through stimulus cards rapidly which allows you to get in more reps. Plus many kids are highly motivated by anything presented on an iPad. Having most of the major robust AAC apps at my fingertips to try at any moment has been life changing for many of my patients (be watching for a post soon with tips on how to get free access to many AAC apps if you are a SLP that does frequent AAC evals and funding recommendations).

I use apps extensively in my work as a SLP. My iPads with high quality apps are by far one of the best tools in my speechie toolbox! I have seen countless patients who had meltdowns at the sight of traditional flashcards but when shown similar activities on an iPad are immediately engaged. I’ve also had kids who were so impulsive that flashcards were constantly either getting ripped or flying off the table. Of course I’ve also had patients who view the iPad as a “toy” but most learn that my main therapy iPad is for “work” or to be used as a “talker” (AAC device). When needed, I lock it into Guided Access and NEVER let anyone see the secret code to unlock it and almost always have a firm grip on one of the handles of the GripCase (any “builder” would be protective of their costly and important tools… right?). I also never leave my personal iPad laying around in a treatment room. It is always in my possession. By strictly following these “rules”, I have never had a cracked screen or had an iPad stolen. I have a second iPad in a different colored GripCase with high quality kids apps that kids can earn time playing for a couple of minutes at the end.

Of course I still use traditional flashcards, worksheets, toys, crafts, music, books, games, etc. as other “tools” in my well equipped speechie toolbox (my toolbox is overflowing with stuff… see my post on SLP Hoarders). Being a good “builder” of speech & language skills requires making good clinical judgements in selecting the right tools for the job in that moment.

I bought my first iPad in December 2012 with Christmas $$$ and quickly bought a second one the following February with birthday $$$ realizing that I needed one iPad to be an AAC and therapy device and another one with “fun” well designed kids apps that kids could request or work for as reinforcers (not fair to take away the “voice” of a patient while playing in language rich apps). A few months later I won an iPad Mini in a giveaway and it has been a valuable tool to trial AAC apps on a more portable sized “talker”.

Since 2012, I’ve only encountered two patients so far that I could not use the iPad in some way. Both had huge meltdowns over the iPad being locked into Guided Access that. So the iPad was not part of the tools I used with them. But for the hundreds of other patients in that I’ve seen in that timeframe, it has been a very important and highly valuable tool.

Not sure how to find high quality apps? I invite you to join me over on my OMazing Kids Facebook page and in my AppPeeps Facebook group where I post frequently about apps (see links below).

I post most info about apps on Facebook as a picture post in an album specifically for apps. There are currently two of these albums. Feel free to browse through them to see what you may have missed but be aware that prices and availability may have changed.

This older one is “full” (since 1,000 is the max). https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.562317480485928.1073741841.174264525957894&type=3

All new posts are being put in album #2: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1039368119447526.1073741892.174264525957894&type=3

I also typically cross post in the AppPeeps to help insure folks see the posts.

A few tips:

I only post about apps that I have actually downloaded and tried and only post about those that I see as being either helpful in therapy, classroom or to parents of kids with special needs. There are thousands of apps in the App Store so it can be difficult to find ones to best meet our needs as SLPs.
When you see me post about an app being free or on sale, I always verify the price in the USA App Store prior to posting about it. But unless an app developer has shared info about sale dates, I have no way to know how long an app will be free or reduced. So it’s always best to grab apps quickly and to verify the price before downloading. App prices often change at 10:00pm CST but can change at any time with no notice.
App prices vary in other countries depending on the exchange rate compared to the US dollar and apps may not be available in every country.
If you don’t have an iPad yet or don’t have the iOS updated to the level required for a particular app, you can still take advantage of app freebies, sales and giveaways via logging onto the App Store in iTunes on your computer. Those apps will then be available to download later from the cloud.
I only post about iOS apps since I don’t have any Android devices.
Many SLP apps & AAC apps are very large so I always suggest that you get an iPad with the largest memory you can afford. Even with two 128GB iPad Airs, I am still constantly playing the “app shuffle” where I delete apps to make room to install others.
It’s wise to make sure an app is still available in the App Store before you delete it from your iPad since apps occasionally are removed and you would have no way to reinstall it unless you had plugged your iPad into a computer and backed it up to iTunes (a process that I know I should do more frequently).
It’s wise to hold off on updating to the latest iOS until it has been out for awhile and the glitches have been worked out (learned that the hard way after one of my iPads “bricked” and had to be restored to factory settings – wiped clean. The process of reinstalling and organizing apps can be tedious and I lost a couple of apps that had not been backed up).
It’s wise to toggle off the setting to automatically download app updates. I always look first to see what the update entails.
I occasionally receive promo codes to give out in app giveaways. What are app “promo codes”? App developers receive a certain number of promo codes when they release or update an app. They often give these out as a way to help spread the word about their app. If you see a “code drop”, a code is not actually “yours” until you successfully redeem it in the App Store.
How do I redeem a promo code? Open the App Store on your iPad. Tap the ‘Featured’ tab on the bottom navigation bar. Scroll down to the bottom and tap the ‘Redeem’ button. Enter the Promo Code and tap the ‘Redeem’ button.
What is a “Universal” app? Apps with the “+” sign in the corner are Universal meaning they can work on an iPhone, iTouch or iPad. Sometimes older devices are no longer supported and app developers typically indicate that in the app description.
The cool thing about apps is that dependable app developers continue to improve apps over time based on the feedback that they receive from users and release updates to keep apps compatible with the latest iOS operating system. So if you see a glitch in an app or have a suggestion for an improvement, please let that app developer know via e-mail, the contact form on their website or Facebook messaging. Most are very appreciative of feedback from those of use using the product in the trenches. Where else can you purchase something, make suggestions and then get free updates for a product?
I usually avoid apps that have ads and in-app purchases since they are distracting to patients. Be sure to know how to adjust the settings on your iPad to prevent kids from making purchases & how to use it in “airplane mode” to block most ads.
Guided Access: If you will be using the iPad with kids, then Guided Access is your new BFE (Best. Feature. Ever!). It can be used to disable the home button and lock the child into an app. Especially critical if you will be using the iPad as an AAC device or using it in therapy with kids with poor impulse control. Here is the PDF guide that I share with families. It shows how to set it up step by step: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2015/12/30/how-to-use-guided-access-to-prevent-exiting-an-app-best-feature-ever/
How to free up memory on your iPhone or iPad: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2016/11/01/ios-hack-free-up-memory-on-your-iphone-or-ipad/
Game Apps & AAC: why these need to be on separate devices:
https://omazingkidsllc.com/2016/07/31/game-apps-aac-why-these-need-to-be-on-separate-devices/
Some great tips & reminders: http://adventuresinspeechpathology.com/the-slps-ipad-resolutions-for-2017/
AAC apps and tips on how SLPs can get free access to trial them with patients: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2016/06/11/aac-tips-how-slps-can-get-free-access-to-aac-apps-aac-app-user-groups-funding-options-more/
Apps to target core vocabulary: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2016/10/01/appy-aac-awareness-month-favorite-apps-for-teaching-aac-core-vocabulary/
Save tons of time, ink & laminating film by saving PDFs of materials to iBooks. The open the document on your iPad for instant no-prep activities.

Are you an iOS App Developer and would like help beta-testing an app or would like to have your apps featured on OMazing Kids? Feel free to contact me via Facebook Messaging on OMazing Kids (I check it much more frequently than e-mail).

Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness & educational activities for kids of all abilities
Facebook Messaging for OMazing Kids: http://m.me/OMazingKidsYoga
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga
AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741
Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad
Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com
.
Angela Moorad is the founder of OMazing Kids, LLC and is an ASHA certified & licensed pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and Kids Yoga Teacher with over 26 years experience working in a variety of settings (early intervention, schools, teletherapy & a nonprofit pediatric rehab hospital for children with developmental disabilities). She is an app beta tester for educational & therapeutic app developers and loves sharing info about great apps, products, books & toys to use with kids of all abilities.
.
{please ignore any ads that may appear below. This is a free blog and I don’t have any control over ads nor do I profit from them}

{Product Review} Q’s Race to the Top Bundle: Boardgame, On the Go Pack, Read-Along Storybook & CD, Coloring & Activity Book, and Q-Time Buddy weighted plush doll

Posted on April 30, 2016 by OMazing Kids

I am SUPER excited to have these amazing products to use in OMazing Kids speech-language therapy and kids yoga classes! EQtainment generously sent me the Q Toys Bundle to try out and review. They have been a HUGE hit with my patients. The bundle includes the Q’s Race to the Top Boardgame, Q’s Race on the Go Pack, Q’s Wild Ride Read-Along Storybook & CD, Q’s Coloring & Activity Book, and the Q-Time Buddy weighted plush doll. [price: $59.99 (an $8.00 savings over purchasing all of the items separately): http://shop.eqtainment.com/products/q-toys-bundle].

Here’s what I LOVE about these amazing products:

The Q’s Race to the Top Boardgame has an oversized dice and game pieces (both nice for younger kids or for those with fine motor challenges) and a sturdy colorful game board that is easy to understand and short enough to get to the end within a typical speech-language therapy session.
The cards in the game have a wide degree of difficulty and social skills targeted. The game was designed and tested with kids ages 3-12 years old. Younger kids or those with special needs may need the therapist or parent to preselect cards before the start of the game to best suit their kids needs. The adult could also simplify the wording as they read the cards. The “Do” cards contain a mix of physical actions ranging from simple to pretty challenging. Some also incorporate emotions and facial expressions. Again I would suggest preselecting the ones that will best suit your kids physical abilities and developmental level. The adult may need to simplify these activities or modify them for kids with special needs. For kids that need a visual support to help them understand what the motion would look like, I will incorporate video modeling and pictures. The selfie camera mode on my iPad will also come in handy.
The Q’s Wild Ride book included with the game is fun to read to introduce kids to the loveable yet quirky character Q before playing the game. (Q is “a dusky leaf monkey”…. thanks for including the specifics! The first question my patient with ASD asked was “what kind of monkey is that?”). The Read-Along Storybook & CD is exactly the same story but in a larger book format and includes a CD with two tracks (with and without page turn signals). The narration and sound effects are very well done in the CD and the illustrations in the book depict emotions well through exaggerated facial expressions and body language. I took a couple of pics of interior pages since none seemed to be available online and this will help folks make purchasing decisions.
The Q’s Race to the Top – On the Go Pack are the same cards as contained in the board game but are sized a little smaller and are in a durable metal tin.
The Q-Time Buddy weighted plush doll is super soft, is wearing a cute green hoodie and is the perfect weight and size to be used in belly breathing. I had several patients who immediately relaxed, closed their eyes and began belly breathing when laying on their back with the Q-Time Buddy on their belly. The instructions are printed on the back of the box. My only suggestion for improvement would be to include a separate card with the belly breathing instructions since most folks usually don’t keep the box when they get a stuffed animal. I am including some pics below that I found on the Kohl’s website so I will be able to share the instructions with parents later.
The Q’s Coloring & Activity Book is filled with great tie-ins to the book & game. It also includes several pages that are unique to just the coloring book and also includes fun activity pages (dot-to-dot, finish the picture, maze, find the same, drawing emotions on faces, etc…). I scanned a couple of interior pages since none seemed to be available online and this will help folks make purchasing decisions.
All of the products are very well designed and of high quality materials. Is is very obvious that a lot of thought went into the design of these products. I love that they offer them as individual items so parents and therapists can pick and choose the ones to best fit their needs or get the entire set as bundle.

These are definitely destined to become “faves” in OMazing Kids speech-language therapy and my kids yoga classes!

See this video for more info about this relaxation technique.

Interior page samples from the storybook:

Interior page samples from the coloring book:

See this video for info about the game:

Where can I purchase these amazing products? (plus a discount code!)

All of the products are available for purchase on their website at: http://shop.eqtainment.com/ & they are offering a 20% off discount for OMazing Kids fans (the discount is only available only when purchasing directly through their website. Enter “QFRIEND20” when you checkout on their website. This discount code is set to expire one month from this post. Please contact the company directly with any questions you may have about the discount code: http://eqtainment.com/contact-us/ or on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/eqtainment/)

A few additional purchasing options:

I’m including links from Amazon.com for those who like to take advantage of free shipping through their Amazon Prime membership and for Kohl’s for those who may have some Kohl’s cash they’d like to spend…..

Board game with book:

http://www.amazon.com/Race-Educational-Board-Game-Book/dp/B00NH9E4LW

http://www.kohls.com/product/prd-2465260/qs-race-to-the-top-board-game.jsp

Q-time weighted plush buddy:

http://www.amazon.com/Q-Time-developing-attention-emotional-control/dp/B00ZQ2J9M2

http://www.kohls.com/product/prd-2466048/q-time-buddy-plush-monkey.jsp

Coloring book:

http://www.amazon.com/Qs-Coloring-Activity-Book-behavior/dp/B00ZPYAK3S

For more ideas for fostering emotional intelligence and teaching social skills, be sure to check out their social media sites:

Website: http://eqtainment.com/

Disclaimer: I received a free sample of this product to facilitate my review. Opinions expressed are my own.

.
Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness & educational activities for kids of all abilities
Home E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com
Facebook Messaging for OMazing Kids: https://www.facebook.com/messages/17426452595789
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga
AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741
Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad
Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com
.
Angela Moorad is the founder of OMazing Kids, LLC and is an ASHA certified & licensed pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and Kids Yoga Teacher with over 26 years experience working in a variety of settings (early intervention, schools, teletherapy & a nonprofit pediatric rehab hospital for children with developmental disabilities). She is an app beta tester for educational & therapeutic app developers and loves sharing info about great apps, products, books & toys to use with kids of all abilities.
.
{please ignore any ads that may appear below. This is a free blog and I don’t have any control over ads nor do I profit from them}

Review: Let’s Roll Yoga

Posted on November 25, 2013 by OMazing Kids

Product Description: A 40-page spiral-bound book (6″ x 9″) + a foam Yoga Dice (2.25″ x 2.25″). List price: $23.95.

Created by a mother of 3 boys with ADHD, Jackie Kuhn is a pediatric Occupational Therapist and registered yoga teacher. This book is a beautiful photo essay of children with special needs in a variety of fun and easy yoga poses. Let’s Roll Yoga explains the therapeutic benefits of yoga. In a physical sense it improves flexibility, balance, strength, coordination, and body awareness. It also enhances a sense of calmness, gives kids the ability to self-regulate their energy levels and provides them with tools to explore and express emotions. This book includes case studies of children in the author’s “SKY” (Special Kids Yoga) class, chapters on how to start, pose descriptions, modifications and breath games. The purpose of Let’s Roll Yoga is to make it simple to incorporate yoga for already over-loaded parents and teachers. Includes a soft “Yoga Dice” with the following poses on it: Bridge, Cat-Cow, Cobra, Child, Downward Dog & Tree.

Here’s what I love about this product:

The foam Yoga Dice is large enough for kids with fine motor difficulties to be able to hold and roll.
The spiral-bound book has heavyweight pages that feel sturdy, are easy to turn and stay open when laid on the floor.
The book includes information about the benefits of yoga for kids including therapeutic benefits in the areas of flexibility, strength, balance, language, auditory processing, sensory integration, self-awareness & breathing. General tips for setting up a daily yoga routine, safety and modifications/precautions are included.
Four breathing activities are included in the book (bean bag breath, cotton ball breath, bee breath & dog breath) with a color photo & simple instructions.
Each pose in the book has a color photo and simple instructions. LOVE the photos of kids with special needs doing yoga….. their pure joy shines!
4 short “case studies” are included in the book. They include the age & diagnoses of each child along with details about how that child benefited from yoga.
A short relaxation script “Rainbow Wear” from Ready…. Set… R.E.L.A.X. is included (it was fun to learn that Jackie’s brother, Jeffrey Allen, M.Ed., is one of the co-authors of that book. I have that book and love it!).
The only suggestion/tip I have is to modify use of the yoga dice to fit the individual needs of the kids you have in your class. For example, many of the kids I work with have seizures, heart conditions or other diagnoses that are a contraindication for doing inversions. Because of that, we very rarely do Downward Dog in my classes. So I am planning on modifying that side of the dice (haven’t decided exact “how” yet….. I may add a clear pocket to that side to be able to insert a pose).

See a peek inside the book:

Available for purchase on the author’s website: http://www.letsrollyoga.com/page05.html. Also available at: http://www.readysetrelax.com/Rollyoga.html & http://www.teachersnotebook.com/shop/letsrollyoga.

The author is on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lets-Roll-Yoga/108028635953850

Disclaimer: I received a free sample of this product to facilitate my review. Opinions expressed are my own. Starting in 2013, a new component of reviews & giveaways hosted on OMazing Kids is that a review will be added on Amazon.com (for products sold on that site). See my Amazon profile at: https://www.amazon.com/gp/pdp/profile/A1JKVLELLSX7FD?ie=UTF8&ref_=cm_aya_bb_pdp

Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, IAYT, RCYP-2

Speech-Language Pathologist

Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities

Radiant Child Yoga Certified – Levels 1 & 2

E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga

Contests & Giveaways on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsContestsandGiveaways

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/#omazing-kids-yoga

Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741

Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

OMazing Kids LLC is an organization that promotes inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities. The blog and social media pages share information about books, DVD’s, CD’s, games and other products specifically designed for kids wellness, mindfulness and relaxation, product reviews & giveaways, lesson plan & activity ideas, research, kids wellness in the news and a connection corner with listings of individuals doing adapted yoga and those offering trainings.

NOTE: Please ignore any ads that appear below the crayons divider bar or any ads or unusual hyperlinks that may appear above. This is a free blog site & I have no control over ads appearing here. I have attempted to remove the CouponDropDown but no luck so far…. DO NOT click on any hyperlinks unless you hover above them first to insure they are valid. Ones I included should appear in blue font.

crayons divider

Review & Mobile-Friendly Giveaway: Upside Down Games

Posted on September 7, 2013 by OMazing Kids

New mobile-friendly giveaway on OMazing Kids! Enter to win your choice of a kids yoga game from Upside Down Games ……

Product Description:

Upside Down Games are yoga-based educational games that help children establish life-long healthy habits based on physical exercise, intellectual activity, and social commitment. Their products provide opportunities for positive social interactions and build self-esteem & confidence. In addition, their games are designed to fortify the muscles and improve body posture, enhance balance, coordination, core strength, and focus. And of course, there are plenty of opportunities for laughter!

benefits

Here’s what I love about the games:

they are yoga-based games….. there are very few out there that are so it’s great to see more!

they go beyond just “poses” (LOVE the “quiz cards” in The Magic Path of Yoga that provide multiple-choice quiz questions relating to basic yoga history, nutrition, body knowledge, the environment & eco-friendly choices; LOVE how the “Mission Cards” in the Yogi Card game get kids to analyze the components of poses; LOVE that the instruction booklet in both versions of The Magic Path of Yoga includes basic anatomy info & how the booklet fans out in the travel version with the pose illustrations on one side & instructions on the back )

they are well constructed (LOVE how thick the cards are in the Memo Yoga game & how easy the “spinner” is to spin once the cards are taken out the Yoga Spinner game……. many of the kids I work with have difficulty with fine motor skills so these details matter in making a game accessible)

they are colorful (important for sustaining the attention of younger kids or those with special needs)

the instructions for the different levels of play are fairly easy to follow and are printed on the box as well as on an insert in each game.

the company has put thought into responsible manufacturing & materials (see their website for details)

they made an effort to include illustrations of kids reflecting racial diversity

their website has info for parents: http://upsidedowngames.us/parents/

the company donates 10% of the proceeds to help economically disadvantaged children stay in school

Just a few suggestions for improvements:

I wish they were “cooperative” games (where all the players work together to win the game) vs. “competitive” games…… or if alternative rule suggestions were provided for that method of play. I naturally adapt almost any game I use in speech-language therapy or kids yoga to be played in that fashion but folks who are not familiar with the concept of “cooperative” games may need some ideas for doing this. For example, in the Yoga Spinner game the “sad face” & “happy face” cause a player to lose a card by the another player taking a card from them….. rather than using these rules, I will be incorporating empathy & emotions activities for those spots. I have lots of social skill materials to pull from in my work as a SLP to be able to do this.

Many of the games have OM symbols of varying sizes and prominence on them. This could be viewed as having “religious” connotations and could pose questions/concerns in certain settings. I am particularly sensitive to this working in a state agency & public schools.

Some of the rules involve holding a pose for 10 seconds. It would be nice to see suggestions for modifying this for younger kids or those with special needs (ex: holding a pose for 2-3 breaths; or deciding as a team what the pose challenge length will be. I work with a lot of kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders that take written rules very literally)

Games to choose from in the giveaway. There are things that are unique & that I love about each one….. I encourage you to spend a little time looking at their website before choosing which one you want if you win the giveaway. Just because one is the most expensive doesn’t mean it will be best suited for the kids you work with.

Some would be best suited for those who work with the same group of kids over a period of time where you can start with foundational skills and build upon them from class to class or for kids who already have some experience with yoga. Although I LOVED all of the games & really wanted to keep all of them, I knew in my heart of hearts that four of them be too complex for the kids I work with at the J.D. McCarty Center. So I blessed two local kids yoga teachers who work in settings where I knew would put them to great use. Look forward to hearing how Katie Windom‘s & Rachel White‘s yogis enjoy them <3.

http://upsidedowngames.us/shop/the-magic-path-of-yoga/ (Retail: $29.95).

(I was also sent the travel version of this game to review. It’s not part of the giveaway but is cool if you need an on-the-go version. I love how the booklet fans out in this version with the pose illustrations on one side & instructions on the back: http://upsidedowngames.us/shop/the-magic-path-of-yoga-soft-version/ – Retail: $49.95.)

http://upsidedowngames.us/shop/yogi-finders/ (Retail: $19.95)

http://upsidedowngames.us/shop/yogi-cards/ (Retail: $8.95)

Two of the games, Yoga Spinner & Memo Yoga, have received ratings by AblePlay. These are the two that I kept to use with the kids at JDMC. They are simpler so would be appropriate for even the younger yogis or those at a younger developmental level (obviously still using judgement for any contraindications for poses based on a particular child’s special needs or ability level).

Memo Yoga and Yoga Spinner Able Play ratings

http://upsidedowngames.us/shop/memo-yoga/ (Retail: $9.95)

http://upsidedowngames.us/shop/yoga-spinner/ (Retail: $15.95)

They also sent me a couple of their cute yogi keychains (not part of the giveaway….. but take a look at them here: http://upsidedowngames.us/shop/magic-yogis-keychains/

Have a yoga studio or online boutique? Then you may be interested in their cool introductory promo package: http://upsidedowngames.us/shop/introductory-package/ (this is not part of the giveaway but was too cool not to share)

Purchase: Available on Amazon.com & on the company’s website: http://upsidedowngames.us/shop/.

Be sure to “like” their page on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Upside-Down-Games/144730338926645 for product updates & info about other giveaways. Follow them on Twitter: https://twitter.com/upsidedowngames. View previews of a few of their games on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/upsidedowngamestv

–

Disclaimer: I received a free sample of this product to facilitate my review. Opinions expressed are my own.Starting in 2013, a new component of reviews & giveaways hosted on OMazing Kids is that a review will be added on Amazon.com (for products sold on that site). See my Amazon profile at: https://www.amazon.com/gp/pdp/profile/A1JKVLELLSX7FD?ie=UTF8&ref_=cm_aya_bb_pdp.

Giveaway (chevron)

New Mobile-Friendly Entry: http://bit.ly/17Tut4T

You may also enter via the Giveaway tab on either of my FB pages (look for the new “chevron” tab) (the entries all go to the same place so you only need to enter via one method). These will work on a computer and might work on mobile devices: https://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga/app_228910107186452 or https://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsContestsandGiveaways/app_228910107186452

Only entries with all required information will be valid. See the Rafflecopter entry form for details.

Helpful Info & Tips: To access the tab via Facebook or to use any of the FB entry options, you have to be logged in as yourself (not a fan page). This is my 2nd time to try out Rafflecopter. Folks had requested a simpler mobile-friendly entry option. After researching all the “free” options I could find, I’ve decided to try this out. I tried it out on my iPhone and it appears to work. In the event that you experience difficulties with the Rafflecopter entry tab, please e-mail me specific details so I can attempt to fix it. E-mail to: amoorad1@juno.com . The entry deadline may be extended at the sole discretion of OMazing Kids in the event of prolonged entry tab problems

Each “giveaway” is handled separately on OMazing Kids. So there are no rules prohibiting previous winners from entering this or future giveaways. I really do read every entry in every giveaway carefully to insure that the products end up in the best hands to impact kids lives.

In order to simplify the entry process, I have eliminated the “A Way to Give” portion….. unfortunately few folks were interested in going through the extra steps to do so.

Entry Deadline: 11:59pm CST on September 9, 2013.

Rules of Participation:

Must be 18 years or older with a valid e-mail address.
Only USA entries are allowed for this particular giveaway.
Employees or family members of OMazing Kids, LLC or the product’s company are not eligible.
No purchase required.
Comments submitted via entries may be copied & pasted into the blog post.
Odds of winning will depend on the number of eligible entries received.
The winner will be chosen from valid entries on September 10, 2013. NOTE: Even though I am using Rafflecopter, I will still be hand selecting winners to insure products end up in the hands of folks who will put them to the best use. Briefly tell me how winning this would help you & the kids. I take the time to read each entry so details count. It doesn’t have to be lengthy…. just heart-felt.

1 winner will receive one copy of the game they chose via the Rafflecopter entry.

The winner will be notified via e-mail, will be posted on the blog post & will be posted on the OMazing Kids Facebook page. The company offering the prize may also post the winner’s name on their website, blog, Facebook page and/or other social media sites at their discretion.
The winner’s address will be forwarded to the company and they will be mailing the prizes directly to the winners. Any questions about the prize should be directed to that company. After I e-mail the winner’s info to the company, it is their responsibility to mail out prizes. Please contact them first if you are concerned about not receiving a prize. If that does not resolve the problem, then feel free to e-mail me and I will glad to assist in whatever way I can.
Prize Value: depends on game chosen (ranges from $29.95 to $8.95)

Other Legal Stuff: I know it’s just a kids yoga game but just to be safe here is all the legal stuff…

This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. You are providing your information to OMazing Kids, LLC and not to Facebook. The information you provide will only be used for our internal purposes in relation to the administration of the giveaway. Your information will NOT be sold to any outside parties.

Indemnification/Hold Harmless: By participating, entrants agree: (a) to the decisions of OMazing Kids, LLC, which shall be final in all respects; (b) to release, discharge, and hold harmless OMazing Kids, LLC and its respective representatives and agents from all liability, injuries, losses or damages of any kind to persons or property resulting in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, from the acceptance, possession, misuse or use of a prize, or from participation in and/or entry into the Contest or any Contest-related activity and for acceptance, delivery, or use of any prize; (c) that the foregoing parties have neither made nor are in any manner responsible or liable for any warranty, representation or guaranty, expressed or implied, in fact or in law, relating to any prize.

Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, IAYT, RCYP-2

Speech-Language Pathologist

Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities

Radiant Child Yoga Certified – Levels 1 & 2

E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga

Contests & Giveaways on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsContestsandGiveaways

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/#omazing-kids-yoga

Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741

Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

crayons divider

Woozles Galore: Romping into Speech-Language & Kids Yoga with the Feed the Woozle Game by Peaceable Kingdom

Posted on July 13, 2013 by OMazing Kids

Ready to have some fun with a Woozle? What’s a Woozle?! Glad you asked. He’s my new BFF. Met him on my annual shopping trek to the Lakeshore back-to-school sale. As a SLP who has been practicing for almost 24 years, I am pretty picky about the stuff I buy. Pediatric SLP’s are pretty notorious for having lots of “stuff” and I think I probably would have a guaranteed appearance if they ever have a “SLP Hoarders” show. So now I set pickier criteria for anything I buy. It must be: creative, unique, fun, reasonably priced and be adaptable (have a use towards several different goals). So envision me on my typical hour long browsing adventure in Lakeshore….. ruling out tons of stuff (“Already have one”, “That’s very similar to _____”, “They want HOW MUCH for a _____?!”, “Too flimsy”, etc….). I was about to leave empty-handed until I spotted him. A Woozle! Smart move on Lakeshore’s part to have a sample of most products open to examine. I used the 20% off any regular priced item coupon to buy the game at Lakeshore (after first scanning it with the Amazon app & searching Google to make sure I was getting a good deal). Retail price: $19.99

The Feed the Woozle game is a cooperative game by Peaceable Kingdom. They have several other cooperative games, including Hoot Owl Hoot! which I have and love.

What is a “cooperative game”? Glad you asked….. It’s a game where everyone plays together, no one is left out, and everyone has fun! Traditional games tend to have one winner and one (or many) losers! In a cooperative game, the players work as a team against a common obstacle, not against each other. Cooperative games emphasize play, not competition. Kids learn to work and play together in respectful and compassionate ways. They learn to share, make decisions together, and trust one another. Cooperative games encourage inclusion and build confidence. Cooperative games are great for kids of all ages (as well as the adults in their life). Kids don’t beat a cooperative game every time, so even if kids lose to the game, they lose as a team. There’s always a reason to keep working, thinking and playing together to win as a team! These type of games are awesome to use in social skills groups, in speech-language therapy, kids yoga groups, on family game night & more!

The Feed the Woozle game includes:

A stand-up Woozle (made of thick cardboard with a shiny finish. While not water or saliva-proof, the slightly laminated feel to it should help it’s durability. It folds nicely to fit in the box)
24 silly snack tokens (made of thick cardboard with slightly laminated finish)
12 “Mmmm! Yummy!” cards (made of a little thinner cardboard with slightly laminated finish)
A large die (with the numbers 1, 2, 3)
A durable plastic spoon
A spinner (very easy to spin & made of thick cardboard with slightly laminated finish)
Instructions for 3 different levels of play based on developmental level

While they have marketed this game for kids ages 3-6, I think older kids will enjoy it as well.

What I love about the game:

Carrying the snack tokens on the spoon promotes mindful focused attention. Tasks like this are especially great for kids with ADHD.
The silly snack tokens are hilarious & full of great descriptive language. Using humor & creative thinking is especially great when working with kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders (who tend to be very literal thinkers).
It promotes creative movement especially when using the spinner. It adds movements that you do while carrying the spoon with the snack token [ex: Hula Dance, Spin, March (could modify into a Brain Gym Cross Crawl March), Bunny Hop, Walk Backwards & Go Crazy (make up your own movement or could do a yoga pose of their choice)].
The cooperative nature of the game promotes the concept of working together as a team.
The rules are easy to follow & easy to modify further to meet individual kids needs.
The game is colorful & well constructed.

Ways to adapt the game to meet special needs:

Use the Woozle symbols (in the PDF below) for kids to comment or request during the game.
Create a 12-space token board for kids to collect the “Mmm! Yummy!” cards on to provide a concrete visual support for kids to see how close they are to winning the game. Of course the game could be modified with a rule of collecting a lesser amount of cards to win (for kids with shorter attention spans or to fit the game within a short therapy session).
Use a BigMack or other single message output communication aide for kids who are nonverbal or minimally verbal to comment during the game (ex: Ewwww! Feed me! Yeah! We won! My turn, etc.).
Put the die into a High Roller (adapted dice roller) to allow kids with physical limitations to be able to “roll” the die.

In addition to the game directions, I have already come up with lots of other ideas for my new BFF the Woozle! I’m one of those folks who can’t just use an item for the advertised purpose. I go to DollarTree or Target and see a cutting board and think “ooh that would be great to make PECS boards out of” or a neoprene iPad case and think “ooh I could cut holes in it to make a keyguard for the GoTalk Now app on the iPad”. I kid you not! Ever since attending a Linda J. Burkhart make-and-take low-tech AAC workshop in 1992, I have lost the ability to think “inside the box” and my venture into kids yoga has just magnified the creative side of my brain. (For those of you who are not familiar with Linda Burkhart, she’s the “MacGyver” of no/low-tech AAC)

So far I’ve come up with the following Woozle-themed activities & printables:

Kids yoga activities to go with each of the 24 silly snack tokens
Draw or do an open-ended craft to create more snacks to feed the Woozle
A fun fruit mindfulness activity (Woozles need mindfulness too! If he was practicing mindful eating, I’m pretty sure he would not consume “toenail toast”)
Cards & coloring to show the Woozle how to “Eat the Rainbow” to encourage healthier food choices
Color Woozle (could also be decorated in a craft activity)
30 language attribute/category activity cards (ex: Name 2 things that are crunchy)
6 Woozle size cards (2 each of small, medium & big. Plan on using them to order & match by size)
A Woozle size sorting board (small, bigger, biggest ~ use with the cards above or with any other manipilatives of snack items)
40 communication symbols (can be used as a communication board, cut apart as PECS symbols and used in aided language stimulation)

Here is a free 16-page PDF with all the printables: Feed the Woozle ~ free printables to use in speech-language therapy or kids yoga

I’m sharing it to encourage others to think “outside the box” when selecting materials. All I ask in return is that you “like” my OMazing Kids Facebook page and leave a FB and/or blog comment about how your kids enjoyed it or how you plan on using it with your kids. I also ask that you follow the “Printables Terms of Use”.

Craft Idea: Make a Woozle with these Easy Monsters Finger Puppets. Wouldn’t it be fun to make these & then do “Woozle Mudras” in kids yoga or work on requesting and descriptive language in speech therapy?!

Check out this fun free Monster Pack printable from 3 Dinosaurs! I bet these are the Woozle’s other BFF’s 😉

Check out more Feed the Woozle activity ideas for SLPs in this post on Activity Tailor: http://www.activitytailor.com/feed-the-woozle/

http://www.activitytailor.com/feed-the-woozle/
.

I’d love to hear your ideas for games to use in kids yoga or speech-language therapy! Feel free to leave a comment below or on the OMazing Kids Facebook page

Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, IAYT, RCYP-2

Speech-Language Pathologist at the JD McCarty Center for Children with Developmental Disabilities (http://www.jdmc.org/)

Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities

Radiant Child Yoga Certified – Levels 1 & 2

E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga

Contests & Giveaways on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsContestsandGiveaways

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/#omazing-kids-yoga

Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741

Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

NOTE: Please ignore any ads that appear below the crayons divider bar or in any hyperlinks above. This is a free blog site & I have no control over ads appearing here.

Review: YoDaGaMo: Activities for Focused and Playful Motion!

Posted on September 22, 2012 by OMazing Kids

YoDaGaMo: Activities for Focused and Playful Motion!

Product Description

This 10 card set of 4×6 cards plus 2 “helpful hint” cards is perfect for the classroom teacher, dance teacher, kids yoga teacher, parent, camp counselor…anyone who spends time with moving children!! These activities are ideal for the 3-10 year old set and can be easily adapted and customized for your group. They even include recommended music. The cards were developed by Alexandra “Zan” Langstaff at the Hullabaloo Danceshop in Vermont.

Pose cards include:

boat
cobra
dog
eagle
magic carpet (savasana)
mountain
resting rock (child’s pose)
star
tree
warrior

The front of each card has a colorful illustration & the back contains ideas for yoga (including the Sanskrit name, a rhyme & creative names for the pose), dance (including music suggestions), games (including prop suggestions) & more (ways to connect the poses with each other). There are also “Helpful Hints” cards with additional ideas and tips for yoga, dance & games.

What I LOVE about this card set:

the 4″ x 6″ size is large enough for kids to see in a group setting
colorful & fun illustrations
printed on sturdy cardstock that will hold up well
organized in alphabetical order on a binder ring makes it easy to find and turn to the card you want. The binder ring can be opened if you want to remove a specific card (this makes it easier to hold up the front of the card towards the kids & then the teacher can see the back of the card)
full of fun, creative & unique ideas!

I have already used these cards for inspiration to try some new games in the Therapeutic Yoga Group for our inpatients at the JD McCarty Center. Many of the kids we have in that group right now are more difficult to engage and have some challenging behaviors so adding a new splash of “YoDaGaMo” has definitely helped 🙂 The cards have also given me ideas to build upon for class themes for our Inclusive OMazing Kids Yoga Classes.