Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain and is frequently associated with problems related to feelings, thoughts, language, as well as difficulties in social interactions. The goal of this project is to develop therapeutic home furniture, focused on children with ASD in the age group of 2 to 6 years old, the one with the highest prevalence of diagnostics and where the best results are likely to be achieved if therapy is started early. Five product proposals have been developed: bed, sensory pouf, tent, ball pool and swivel chair. The products were designed following interviews and questionnaires with occupational therapists and parents/caregivers, with a key characteristic targeted being the fostering of the child’s interactivity with other persons. Each product has the possibility of applying sensory maps as well as extra textures and shapes, with neutral and calm colors being used in accordance with the research done. A natural fabric called Burel was abundantly used in the products due to its many advantageous properties that can be used to bring benefits in the sensory and cognitive development of children with ASD. Applying the fabric beyond the usual, for tactile and kinesthetic properties.
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Acknowledgements
This project is the product of the contribution of many people, who throughout the whole process showed their support and generosity. In addition to the literary research carried out, which was fundamental, the great-test source of knowledge was the contribution made by parents, family members, educators, and therapists, who shared their reality with us and let us understand their real needs, allowing us to see the perspective of the people who go through the care and evolution of children with ASD. An acknowledgement to all the people who contributed their experience and knowledge.
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Lopes, I., Filgueiras, E., Guerreiro, A., Monteiro, J. (2022). Inclusive Design: Furniture Design for Autism Parents Support. In: Soares, M.M., Rosenzweig, E., Marcus, A. (eds) Design, User Experience, and Usability: Design Thinking and Practice in Contemporary and Emerging Technologies. HCII 2022. Lecture Notes in Computer Science, vol 13323. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-05906-3_13
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-05906-3_13
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