DCD Using a WiiFit

[porridgelover]

I know it's verboten (!) but thought someone might be interested in this Daily Mail link.

Dido Green is an Occupational Therapist who has a huge background in treating children with Sensory Processing difficulties and researching motor programmes for treatment.

I'll see if I can find a reputable link to the actual research!

More information here

Good article thanks porridge,

I have often thought that some of the games mimmick[sp] some of Dd3's physio and OT exercises. The yoga type ones definitely make her focus on her balance.

Ooo I think I could probably convince her to to it 3 times a week if I tried reallyhard

BTW, she doesnt technically have DCD but does have low muscle tone, hypermobilty and her motor skills were assessed as being on the 16th percentile.
her dx is ASD and thats enough for now

I have been interested in this as DD seems to have DCD - certainly needs to build up core strength, has hypermobility and poor balance. I have never seen one in action though. What do you do - buy Wii Fit with balance board and just use the games that come with it? Does it run through the TV? Sorry for being so ignorant. Any hints very much appreciated.

telsa, you need a wii and wii fit board and the wii fit game comes with the board, it plugs into the tv yes. Not cheap and for core strength a gym ball and balance board would definitely be a cheaper option but the wii is fun and appealing to children. There are sometimes good deals to be had if you shop around.

I think the advantage of the Wii is the 'cool' factor. It's not going to have anything that a good OT/Physio programme wont have, especially as their programmes should be tailored to the child.
But children being as they are, they might be more motivated by the Wii .
And parents being as they are, having so many other bits to focus on, it might be easier to use the Wii a few times a week.

Telsa, no its not something you have to buy. A gym ball, wobble board, list of exercises, sheet of tick boxes, give the chance to earn a treat (movie night) if all the boxes ticked. I think the main point to take away from the research is that any regular focussed movement programme will help children with DCD. They seem to have shown that the Wii is an effective way to do that.