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A Gift of Independence
March 4, 2009- Mercedez Breland of Purvis no longer has to ask a teacher how to use a swing set, thanks to a new addition on the Children's Center for Communication and Development interactive playground at The University of Southern Mississippi.
The 3-year-old student simply has to push a button on a nearby communication box to either hear or see a description of the desired playground activity. Breland and her peers can also invite others to play with them or tell each other where they are going next.
"These devices convey verbal communication," said Margaret Buttross Brinegar, Children's Center director. "The children are empowered to do the activity on their own."
The communication devices were purchased with funds donated by the Lagniappe Foundation, a family foundation based in Jackson to assist select charitable causes throughout the state and region. They are the newest addition to the center's enhanced playground that allows a child with a communication or developmental disability to interact and play more independently.
The playground comprises a toddler playground, a preschool playground, a hut and a general play area. Six of the 10 activities on the toddler playground allow the children play with their peers while in their wheelchairs or other mobility device. These include musical panels; an elevated play structure with ramp for reaching a steering wheel; and elevated sand, water tables and a basketball goal.
"Our goal is to have every child fully engaged in play," said Judy Prehn, pediatric physical therapist with the Children's Center. "Through play, the children learn social, language, motor and life skills, learn independence and gain a sense of competence. Our playground is a work in progress, and it will continue to adapt and change to meet the needs of the wonderful children we serve."
The Children’s Center for Communication and Development, a United Way agency, is an early intervention program serving infants, toddlers and preschoolers with disabilities. As a clinical division of the Southern Miss Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, the Center serves families and children while providing clinical training for university students.
In celebration of 35 years of service, the center will host an open house from 4-6 p.m. April 16 to honor donors and give a tour of the facility.
For more information, call 601.266.5222
Contact Jeannie Peng - 601.266.5568