For a preschool child with congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection who has visual difficulties, what intervention should a therapist recommend to enhance play experiences?

Incorporating three-dimensional objects into play activities is particularly beneficial for a preschool child with congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection who is experiencing visual difficulties. This approach provides tactile feedback and allows the child to explore objects through touch, which is crucial for enhancing sensory experiences and developing spatial awareness.

Three-dimensional objects can help the child engage in meaningful play experiences that are multi-sensory, encouraging exploration and interaction in a way that accommodates their visual challenges. By using these types of objects, the therapist can promote engagement and creativity, facilitating play activities that can strengthen fine motor skills and other developmental areas.

While sound-based activities could also be beneficial, they primarily target auditory skills rather than facilitating the child’s interaction with their environment through touch and kinesthetic exploration. Independent play, while important for developing autonomy, may not fully address the child's need for enhanced engagement and interaction in light of their visual impairments. Focusing solely on vision therapy sessions could limit the child's overall play experience and neglect the importance of integrating various sensory modalities into their developmental play. Thus, the most appropriate intervention combines play with the use of three-dimensional objects to provide a supportive and enriching play environment.