No abstract

This study aims to examine the views of mothers regarding plays and toys which are of great significance also for children with intellectual retardation and learning disability. This study was conducted through a mixed method by using qualitative and quantitative methods together. Seventy-five mothers who participated in the study were chosen by using the purposive sampling method in the first stage and the random sampling method in the second stage. Data were collected through the ‘Play Skills Scale’ and ‘Mother Interview Form’. The quantitative data were analysed through Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis H tests and qualitative data were analysed through content analysis. In the qualitative dimension of the study following themes were found; playing with the child, the toys the child plays with, whether the child has a toy he/she always plays with, and whether giving the child the right to choose when buying toys. For the quantitative dimension of the study significant difference was found between the play skill levels, disability type, giving the child the right to choose when buying toys, and toy type variables.   Keywords: Early childhood; intellectual retardation; learning disability; play; toy

Objective: (ASD), Nutritional problems are among the major problems that affect both the parents and the child's life in the long term in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Underestimation of this problem impairs the quality of life, increases the dependence causes many health problems. The purpose of this study is to identify the nutritional status of the children with autism spectrum disorder and to suggest solutions. Method: Descriptive scanning model was used in the study. Thirty parents including 25 mothers and 5 fathers participated in the study. The 'Parent Interview Form About Nutrition of Autistic Children' developed by researchers was used for data collection. Qualitative data were analyzed by descriptive analysis method. Discussion: The main problems were found to be food selection and eating fast. Eating behavior and problems, approach of the family and coping strategies were detected to vary among children.Conclusion: Families were seen to feel helpless and need guidance for their children's nutrition.