Color Matching Pill Box Activity for Developmentally Disabled

Some children and individuals with disabilities are easily overwhelmed when there are a large number of materials around. The task seems endless! I find that it helps to set up materials so that it’s obvious that the activity won’t last too long and the end is in sight….. Filling up sections in a pill box or other sectioned container is a great for individuals with short attention spans.

The pill box shown in the video has 17 sections, but you can find one with less to makes success easier. You may find a different type of container with larger sections that are easier to use. I found the little cylindrical objects in a closet at work. They were just the right size to fill the pill box sections. I directed clients to place color stickers on each object and matching stickers in the container sections. In addition, they attached Velcro to each object. Now my materials were ready and I spent very little money!

Some children or clients may not have the cognitive skills to match colors. But when they do, they love using these skills. In the video you will see an individual who enjoys matching the objects to the same color section in the container. However, the activity can also be used with people who do not color match or individuals who prefer to attach the objects to a long, suspended strip of Velcro. Reaching for the Velcro incorporates movement/exercise into the activity. Many of my clients are quite sedentary, so I try to set up materials to involve either moving high/low, across the room or both.

If the individual is unable to stand, try setting up with the Velcro strip raised or suspended within reach or on top of the table. Simply ripping objects off Velcro promotes using hands together because its difficult to do with only one hand. Many people enjoy the sensory experience of ripping or pulling apart objects using force. Another adaptation is to use number or alphabet stickers instead of colors. Then individuals can show off their cognitive abilities.

Learn more about activity adaptations on my website and blog:
http://www.RecyclingOT.com
http://www.RecyclingOT.blogspot.com
http://www.FromFlappingtoFunction.com