Unwrapping the power of the best educational toys for our daughter
The toys help boost literacy, communication, science, and math
The day before our daughter, Rylae-Ann, recently departed Thailand to visit family in the U.S., we opened Christmas presents together. My wife, Judy, had prepared several thoughtful gifts, each carefully chosen to balance Rylae-Ann’s developmental goals with fun and engagement.
Rylae-Ann was born with aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency, a rare genetic disorder that affects the nervous system. One of the earliest warning signs was her inability to communicate using the typical milestones seen in infants. She didn’t babble, use hand gestures, or make eye contact to express her needs.
Language and communication remained a challenge even after Rylae-Ann was fortunate to undergo gene therapy through an experimental clinical trial. Slowly but surely, she began to use hand gestures. Her speech eventually followed, and today, she can form sentences and even engage in conversations. Despite this progress, we’re always on the lookout for innovative ways to further enhance her communication skills.
Literacy and language toys
For Christmas, Judy searched online for toys that would boost Rylae-Ann’s language development. Her favorite find was a set of interactive storybooks. These books combine technology and multimedia elements to make reading immersive. They help build a love for learning while offering interactive games to check comprehension or practice new vocabulary after each page.
Another set of books had characters, words, and equipment with Velcro to match the story. It also included boards for writing with a dry-erase marker. The books come in a series that increases in difficulty. The first set was added to our suitcase for our trip. When we return, we can start at the next level.
Another standout gift was a magnetic LED writing tablet. Unlike traditional whiteboards or chalkboards, this tablet allows Rylae-Ann to practice writing letters and words on a screen that changes colors, glows, and animations. Its instant clearing feature ensures a clean slate every time without the stains or mess of other mediums. The inclusion of stencils made it even easier for her to trace and learn.
Cognitive and knowledge-based toys
While Judy focused on literacy and communication, I turned my attention to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). In kindergarten and first grade, Rylae-Ann’s report cards showed excellent scores in reading and language, but math and science were noted areas that needed improvement. I also wanted to make sure she developed a strong interest in these subjects.
To make math and science exciting, I chose several STEM kits for us to explore together in the coming months. These kits are fantastic because they include all the necessary materials, eliminating the hassle of searching for additional supplies. Many also come with supplementary books and manipulatives (physical and visual tools) to deepen the learning experience.
For math, I purchased puzzles and board games designed to enhance problem-solving and spatial awareness. The puzzles encourage logical thinking, while the board games require players to use addition, subtraction, and shape recognition. Some of the puzzles took learning up a notch by including tweezers and tools to complete them.
By making math fun and interactive, I hope to spark Rylae-Ann’s interest and confidence in the subject.
When Rylae-Ann opened her presents, her smiles and giggles said it all. She immediately began interacting with each toy, exploring their features and finding joy in learning. Rylae-Ann was able to put some of them in her book bag for the long plane rides across the Pacific Ocean.
Now that we’re back in the United States, a new set of presents awaits her. These gifts, I’m sure, will be the latest and greatest toys based on current trends.
By balancing educational and traditional toys, we aim to support Rylae-Ann’s growth while ensuring she never misses out on the simple joys of childhood.
Note: AADC News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of AADC News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase deficiency.
Leave a comment
Fill in the required fields to post. Your email address will not be published.