This post is part of a mini blog series documenting four weeks of Constraint-induced Movement Therapy (CIMT).
One of the tools we use most regularly during the Constraint-induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) sessions is the light table. My daughter has Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI) and she can see objects more easily with the help of light. When objects are made visually accessible to her, she’s more motivated to do tummy time and practice sitting.
Ben and Ruth have come up with all sorts of creative ways to use the light table for sensory activities. At times, they illuminate a bin filled with rice or water beads by placing the bin directly on the light table. At other times, they tape transparent items directly to it. Today, Ben has created a work of art using small pink balloons taped to cord.
3 tips for using a light table
- To avoid overwhelming the child with light, use solid dark fabric to cover up the parts of the light table that are not being used to show an object.
- When possible, place the light table upwards and on an angle (see the first photo in this post), rather than laying it flat on the floor or table.
- Use translucent objects that have some movement, such as a translucent magenta Slinky toy.
Fun light table activities for babies with CVI
Cindy has a deep interest in Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI) and is currently studying Early Childhood Education. She focuses most of her time on her energetic daughter: playing, cuddling and helping to make her world visually accessible. Cindy holds a degree in Marketing and has worked in the not-for-profit sector for many years.