Have a Seat with Adaptive Chairs for Children


Children with special needs tend to face a lot of challenges in their young lives.  They want to grow and learn, and laugh and play just like any other children.  But because of physical and/or mental disabilities, things that would seem simple, such as sitting in a regular chair, can become huge obstacles to the special needs child.  And while a wheelchair is certainly important and necessary for mobility, it might not provide the child the right kind of sitting space for a classroom, for therapy activities, nor for rest and relaxation.

Rehabmart offers some fine choices of adaptive chairs created specifically for special needs children.  These chairs can be used at home, school, or in any other therapy settings and help to give our special kids a break from their wheelchairs.

The TherAdapt Adjustable Positioning Chairhas so many great features and can adjust in so many ways, it's hard to know where to start!  Three sizes of customized seating for the mild, moderate or severely physically challenged user guarantees that you will find the best fit for your own unique child.  This chair is very easily adjusted, allowing it to grow along with your child; the largest Primary/Intermediate size can accommodate teenagers and young adults up to 150 pounds.

   From library.rehabmart.com
 
The TherAdapt seat is height and angle adjustable, allowing a seat-to-back angle range between 80 and 100 degrees to help ensure correct pelvic positioning.  The U-shaped side frames angle the chair at 5, 10 or 20 degrees tilted in space, while they also raise and lower the height of the chair.  Standard options include a depth-adjustable and removable abduction pommel, and a pelvic positioning belt to help keep your child firmly and safely secured.  Customized options include several different kinds of back inserts that allow you to create exactly the right head and/or trunk support that your child requires.

This chair is a very popular seating solution for activities such as eating, schoolwork, tabletop games, therapy and circle-time.  The quick and simple adjustability of the TherAdept makes this a great chair to be used in the classroom or therapy clinic by several different children with varying needs.  As your child's abilities change, so does this chair.  The TherAdapt Mobile Base option also helps you safely transport this chair about the home, clinic or classroom with ease.  Four locking casters ensure that this base and chair will stay firmly in place.

When it's time to relax, the Freedom Concepts Chill-Out Chair is the only way to go!  Designed with your child in mind, this chair also comes in a wide variety of styles, sizes and colors to suit every unique need and taste out there.  One of the best features of this chair is that it allows your child a comfortable, dignified and completely safe seat without restraint.  All Chill-Out models feature a comfortable and unique Deep V design with multiple, flame resistant foam densities that won't lose their shape, even after years of use. 

  
From library.rehabmart.com

 An ottoman, included with each model, helps to support the legs as well as reduce edema and improve circulation in the lower extremities.  When set on its end, the ottoman provides an ideal position for the caregiver to assist the occupant with activities such as eating, communication, therapy or to give more direct comfort.  The ottoman can also be used as a side table for either child or caregiver.

The new Home Rocker model is intended for very young children and provides a gentle and soothing back and forth motion.  The Ultra Suede Microfiber Fabric Cover is available in many designer colors to beautifully blend with any décor.  The Ottoman can also be attached to the rocker to provide stability and to keep the chair stationary.

The Designer Series model features Reflex Foam and wood base construction that stands up to tough and repeated use, year after year.  Like the Home Rocker, this chair also features the Ultra Suede Microfiber Fabric Cover in many fabulous designer colors.  Available in small, medium or large sizes, this chair can accommodate children, teens and young adults with a weight range of 30 to 175 pounds.  Casters make this chair easy to transport, with locks that also help keep it firmly in place.

The Original Chill-Out Chair model features a Crypton Fabric Liquid and Stain Resistant Slip Cover and a Medbloc Liquid Resistant Liner.  Patented process Crypton Textiles are stain, water and bacteria resistant and are extremely durable, flame resistant and machine-washable.  The lightweight Medbloc Liner boasts a smooth knit backing that is soft and flexible with heat-sealed seams to prevent moisture leakage.  Durable and washable, this liner helps to maintain the structure and hygienic integrity of the foam.

Think about creating some new seating options for your special child.  Adaptive chairs can open up the world in a whole new way for the child with special needs.  From helping your child to learn and focus with a TherAdapt Adjustable Positioning Chair in the classroom or clinic, to enhancing relaxation, well-being and sense of calm with a Freedom Concepts Chill-Out Chair at home or in residential care, the positive benefits of using these chairs will reward you and your child for many years to come.

To view more types of adaptive chairs, please go to the Adaptive Chairs page.
 
 
Carol Koenigsknecht, Medical Consumer Writer
and
Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Team Leader & CEO