Fledglings News - Issue 6

Spring's in the Air!

Winter may still be here but the promise of Spring is all around as buds open and the birds start building their nests. We at Fledglings are also feeling ‘chirpy’ thanks to the Eastern England branch of the national charity, Scope, who have very generously sponsored this edition of Fledglings News. We wish to express our thanks to them, so many of the products we feature in this newsletter will be especially suitable for those children who Scope exists to support.

Did You Know?

• That the Audit Commission have published a report - “Services for Disabled Children - a review of services for disabled children and their families” - which is critical of existing levels of service and which makes recommendations for major change.
• That the Audit Commission is an independent body responsible for ensuring that public money is spent economically, efficiently and effectively, to achieve high-quality local and national services for the public.
• That the service Fledglings offers has been operating for almost six years, during which time we have received a total of only £17,000 in grants from government sources.
• That Fledglings has recently conducted a business review which identifies a need to raise at least £50,000 p.a. over the next three years to continue our present level of service, which is already oversubscribed.

Fledglings Award

Since our last newsletter was published, Fledglings has received “Highly Commended” in the Start Ups section of the prestigious Beacon Prize. Our office wall is now looking quite decorative with all the Award plaques!

Can You Help?

• Does anyone know of a good way to clean Velcro? A parent has asked us about this as her daughter's splints, which are fastened with velcro, have to be frequently returned because the velcro becomes dirty quickly and loses its ability to stick. This means the child is regularly missing out on her support.
• Could anyone recommend good neck supports for swimmers with poor head control?

Buggies About Town

We have had a lot of enquiries about lightweight, easy-fold upright buggies which families can use for trips around town. So, here we feature two buggies which may be suitable for this purpose. We strongly recommend, however, that you should discuss your need for a buggy with your child's occupational therapist or physiotherapist before making any purchase.

Rob Mitchell in his Pixi (see below)

The Maclaren Major

The Maclaren Major is probably the most well known lightweight folding upright buggy for children with special needs, as it was the first of its kind. It was specially developed for disabled children, is lightweight (7.5 kg with footplate) and has fully manoeuvrable front wheels and folds simply in an umbrella fold for ease of handling and storage. It has been regularly developed over the years and now sports a silver frame and cobalt blue easy clean fabric and accessories.

The Maclaren Major

The Pixi

The Pixi is a very lightweight buggy which received the most enthusiastic feedback from “Can you help?” in our last issue regarding buggies suitable for children with athetoid cerebral palsy.

Yvette Clements was one of the parents who contacted us to give the Pixi a very definite ‘thumbs up’. Yvette describes the Pixi as a “little fashion statement”! Her daughter Rosie has now moved on to a larger buggy but Yvette says that she really misses what the Pixi had to offer. She says it is a very plush, very trendy buggy which is also very light and easy to push. “It has excellent accessories, too,” says Yvette, “and it will fold flat and fit into any car boot. Wherever I went, even in the USA, people would stop and ask me where I had obtained it. I was proud to push a Pixi.”

The Pixi

A Parent's Experience

Marion Mitchell has had experience of both the Pixi and the Maclaren Major. Marion writes:

“My son Rob is nearly ten. He has a rare chromosome disorder. He has severe learning difficulties and epilepsy, is non-verbal and has no sense of danger. He is a challenge, but he is also a very gorgeous and loving little boy.

From the age of two until Rob finally outgrew it at the age of seven we used a Maclaren Major buggy (he didn't learn to walk until the age of three). The Maclaren Major was great, although not as good as the updated models available now, particularly as it folded so compactly, but it became unsuitable when he tried to stand in it and hence could tip it over. So we looked for an alternative.

One day whilst on a day trip with some other families I met two who had a Pixi. It looked great and both mums recommended it, so on my return I decided to book an appointment with the representative. He came to my son's school and with the help of the school OT we agreed that this was the most suitable we had seen.

The Pixi duly arrived a couple of months ago and we love it! The seat is warm, comfortable and supportive and the vest harness is brilliant as it holds Rob securely. The seat has an easy to use knob on the back to allow it to gently recline. The seat back has head wings, too, so Rob can lean to one side or the other. The footplate also rises up and down. The Pixi is great from a stability point of view, too. I feel more confident pushing it than I do the wheelchair, so I can walk faster too!

The only down side for us is that the rear wheels are wider than conventional buggies, and some smaller doorways you can't get through that easily. So aside from that minor technicality, I would definitely recommend the Pixi to anyone. I wish I had always had one.”

For further details, contact Fledglings.

More Products Available Through Fledglings

The following products have been selected to give enjoyment and/or to encourage development in children who have difficulty with movement. Other children may equally enjoy or benefit from the items selected as most of them have additional benefits.

Should you wish to order any of these items, please return the enclosed order form or give us a call. All prices quoted are correct at the time of going to press. Postage will be charged as extra unless otherwise indicated.

Sensory Development Aids

Kouvalias Musical Fantasy contains the workings of a music box which is operated by turning the upper section of the base in the same way that one would wind a chiming clock. It has been a favourite toy in many toy libraries for years as it is well made and sturdy and has wide appeal. When the music starts to play, the coloured balls rotate and vibrate because they are attached to the centre by springs. The brightly coloured balls are easy to grasp or hit and are fun in their own right as they wobble on their springs. The base is strong and weighted, so it is difficult to knock over. Price: £29.75 inc. p & p.

Kouvalias Musical Fantasy

The Mini Accordion is a lightweight paper accordion with a handle at each end, which may encourage children with hemiplegia, or others who have difficulty with hand function, to bring their hands together to the mid-line to produce music. It is a fun, if noisy, cause and effect toy. At least it won't break the bank! Price: £1.99.

Mini Accordion

Spinning Rainbow Bell Wheel is a hanging toy which may be wound up using the strings by which it is attached. Once fully wound, it may unwind for some minutes during which it spins like a vertical top. The eight attached bells jingle as the ‘top’ spins. A delight to watch for any child or adult. Price: £6.50.

Spinning Rainbow Bell Wheel

Jitterz Pelican is a vibrating soft toy in strong contrasting colours. Pulling the ball, attached by an elasticated cord, causes it to vibrate, which may encourage a child to use both hands together. The toy is also useful for children who like to explore with their mouth as it is waterproof, durable and quick drying. Even greater fun at bath time! Price: £5.50.

Jitterz Pelican

Developmental Toys and Learning Resources

Sound Puzzle Box is a very versatile toy. Essentially a shape sorter with a difference, it has three chunky shapes which can be seen moving when the ‘correct’ slot is selected. Additionally, a sound is produced, rewarding the child for his/her success. The box also contains three rods with counters, which can be used like an abacus. The figures can also be used for pretend play or to teach colours. The shapes may also be used as whistles which helps develop facial muscles for production of vocal sounds. Finally, the whole cylinder may be turned on its side and rolled gently to encourage crawling. Price: £10.95.

Sound Puzzle Box

This Alligator Ruler (below, top) is a cheery accompaniment to maths lessons for children. The handle, made in the shape of an alligator, helps children to hold a ruler more securely in place both for measuring and when drawing straight lines. Price: £2.95.

The Rulers with Wooden Handles/Knobs are more discreet than the alligator ruler and more appropriate for a secondary school child. Made especially for Fledglings by a friendly company we know. Price: £3.50.

Rulers

Magnetico is a magnetic construction toy whose pieces fit together by magnetic attraction. Suitable for very young children……… until whenever a child tires of construction toys. It comes in a case of 35 pieces with eight plasticised exercise sheets. Price: £32.50.

Magnetico

Easi Grip Scissors are particularly suitable for those with limited fine motor skills, as they can be grasped with the whole hand and squeezed to make a cut. Lightweight and easy to use, the scissors reopen automatically when pressure is released. Available for right- or left-handed children. Price: £5.65

Mini Easi Grip Scissors are for pre-school and children up to around five years old. May be used by those who are both right- or left-handed. Price: £3.75

Mini Easi Grip Scissors

Nursery Rhyme Soundtracks is a listen and match game comprising a 25 minute cassette tape featuring 12 popular nursery rhymes, 2 game boards and 12 nursery rhyme character pieces. It can be used on several levels. Play the tape alone to help develop children's listening skills. With constant repetition, help them to learn each rhyme, a good foundation for developing reading skills. Then play the matching game, developing concentration and dexterity. Price: £7.50.

Clothing

Crocheted Collars. We have had these attractive white collars made for us. They may be used as an alternative to bibs for girls who drool. We had the idea from one of our families who use crocheted bibs very satisfactorily. We hope these will prove both satisfactory and popular for droolers. We think they may appeal to older girls particularly for special occasions. Price: £5

Crocheted Collar

Paint Aprons. Lightweight waterproof nylon aprons with sleeves - useful for all messy activities. Colour: red. Sizes: 28″, 30″ and 32″ chest. All one price: £7.50.

School Feeder. This new waterproof-backed feeder is proving popular with schools. It can be supplied in school colours or in brighter designs to meet your child's preference. One size only: 45 cm long by 40 cm wide. Velcro fastening. Price: £6.25 or with an optional inner absorbent layer. Price: £6.75

School Feeder

Elastic Coiler Shoe Laces turn lace up shoes into slip-on shoes and help children to dress independently. Available in a variety of colours at £1.99 a pair.

Swimwear

We have recently experienced a growing number of calls for products that enable an incontinent child to swim without fear of ‘accidents’ in the pool. Here we feature some swim wear about which we are especially positive as it is not designed specifically for special needs but nevertheless seems particularly helpful for disabled children.

Aquatherm Swim Shorts are close fitting and can be pulled over a nappy. Providing the fit is good, they will keep the nappy dry throughout the swimming session.

Aquatherm is a waterproof, thermal, UV protective fabric which is stretchy, lightweight and breathable. The shorts are relatively easy to get on and off and are equally suited to cool water situations and hot days on the beach. Available for children and adults. Colour: black or blue. Sizes: small (18″ - 21″ waist), medium (20″ - 23″), large (22″ - 25″). Price: £17.50 inc. p & p

Aquatherm Swim Shorts

Aquatherm Swim Tops are also available. Price: £22.50 inc. p & p for all sizes up to 34″ chest.

We also have details of other appropriate swimwear products. Please call us if interested.

We regret that we are unable to accept returns of swimwear which has been tried on, for hygiene reasons.

Continence

Changing Mats. When changing an older child in a public convenience, or even at home, it may be difficult to find an appropriate changing mat. We have recently been sent a sample of a new, lightweight product which rolls up neatly and has carry handles for trips out. Made of a waterproof fabric with a detachable towelling liner, it is suitable for all age groups. Size: 147 cm × 69 cm. Please contact us for more information.

Folding Changing Mat

PVC-covered Foam Mats come in bright colours, fold flat, are comfortable to lie on and are easily wiped clean. We have had excellent feedback about these, which families often use when travelling; a local respite care facility has told us they also find them useful indoors. Size: 117 cm × 62 cm. Price: £9.99.

RADAR Keys give access to toilets for disabled people. This may make the situation described previously a lot easier as these toilets frequently have more space and are cleaner than those for the general public. We have noticed that in some local authority areas a RADAR key also gives access to special children's play facilities in public parks. Price: £3.35 each.

“Please Park Carefully” car window stickers are not official blue badges and do not act as parking permits, but they do act as a reminder to other motorists of your need for their consideration when parking next to you should you require additional space. Price: £2.50 each.

“Please Park Carefully” car window sticker

Safety Products

Children often need support to keep them safe when learning to sit unaided. These products may help.

Horseshoe Cushions help to support babies who are developing head and upper body control. If the baby is placed on his tummy to play, the cushion will help support the neck and shoulders. Later, the cushion may be used as a back support when the child is learning to sit unaided. Here are two which we consider good value:

Large Horseshoe Cushion. A large padded cushion with fixed cover in bright red and green. Price: £19.50.

‘Boppy’ Cushion. A horseshoe cushion without cover. Price: £22.95. A 100% pure cotton cover in bright patterned fabric is available for an additional £11.95.

The Bumbo Seat has been recommended to us both by a parent and by an OT for helping support a young child comfortably and securely. It is very deep with a high back support and a saddle front which makes it very difficult to climb out of. Suitable for children from about three months. Price: £24.95

The Bumbo Seat

The Sit-U-Up is a more substantial solid foam PVC-covered back support for slightly older children. The support has a non-slip base. This may be very suitable for children who have seizures and might then fall backwards. Colour: red/orange. Price: £54.50.

The Sit-U-Up

Eating and Drinking Equipment

The small Easy-Pour Jug has a big handle and two clear lids each with a pouring spout, one for slow and one for faster pouring. This gives a child the opportunity to practise pouring without spills. It would also help others with, for example, dyspraxia or a hand tremor. It may also be used as a cup. Dishwasher and microwave safe. Price: £11.95.

Easy Pour Jug

Books and Videos

Seal Surfer by Michael Foreman is a delightful story about a boy, who is a wheelchair user, his grandfather and their adventures with the seals. It is also about time and seasons, life and death, and things that have deeper meaning. It is a beautifully illustrated book and is worthy of inclusion in any library. Price: £4.99

Donations

We gratefully acknowledge recent donations of £5 and above from the following:

C Colleran, J Jefferson, BJ Goldsmith, E Curtis, S Worsley, C Thomson, S Trever, J Jones, VE Briggs, J Wheatcroft, F Phillips, A Bate, Y Farooqui, H Mealing, L Carroll, Y Bilton and J Hanson. Our sincere thanks, also, to Scope East of England for a grant of £1,270 to cover costs incurred in producing this newsletter.

Feedback

The Crayon Colour Ball featured in Issue 4 has been very successful in helping children who have difficulty managing ordinary crayons, so we were very sorry when our supplier informed us that they have been discontinued. However we have found some new Mushroom-shaped Crayons which we believe will have similar benefits. We have some on order and hope that you will find them just as useful as the colour ball. Pack of 6 stackable crayons - red, yellow, pink, green, orange and blue. Price: £2.99 per pack

Mushroom-shaped Crayons

Fledglings' Review

We have recently undertaken a review to look at how to deal with the increased demand for our service and ensure that Fledglings becomes sustainable for the long term. This has taken up quite a lot of our time of late and we are now in the final stages of producing a report.

Inevitably this has reduced the time available to deal with some of your enquiries and we are sorry that some of you will have been waiting an unacceptably long time for the information you require. We hope you will understand that it is important for us to make these plans, and that you will eventually receive an improved service, which can be guaranteed for the long term.