Anderson Center for Autism selected the EyePlay System in their pursuit of a new technology to create an enriching and positive environment for individuals with autism. This not-for-profit organization, located in Staatsburg, New York, specializes in individualized care and services for children and adults on the spectrum. More information can be found at http://www.andersoncenterforautism.org.
One of the primary goals of implementing this virtual playground was to increase physical activity among the center’s children. Currently, the EyePlay is located in the facility’s Recreation Center. As the center becomes more familiar with the capabilities of the EyePlay, the next step is for the device to be put into curriculum by therapists.
Initially, the center ran a short trial to determine usability of the device with the student population. According to Behavior Analyst Amanda Coons MS, BCBA, “It was interesting to watch how the EyePlay became a tool that encouraged students to communicate and socialize with their peers.”
The EyePlay system encourages children ages 2+ to run, jump and play with their entire bodies, as their movements trigger sounds and actions in the games, and they begin to understand the cause and effect from each particular movement.
Coons added, “The EyePlay appeared to aid students in engaging in seemingly natural ways with their peers and with the device. I look forward to sharing this tool with other service providers at Anderson in hopes that they too can incorporate it within their programs.”