Most children love magic. They seem to buy into magic tricks so much easier than most adults. They haven’t yet been tricked or taken in their lives and so they aren’t as guarded as most adults when it comes to the unseen!
Then there are children with disabilities. Most of them don’t enjoy their physical therapy routines as much as would be beneficial. So there have been many studies done on the impact of teaching children with disabilities magic tricks as a form of physical and mental therapy. And what has been found is a winning combination.
The studies have been amazing. One doctor at the Tel Aviv University, Dr. Dido Greene, PhD, and occupational therapist and PhD of psychomotor development in children, worked with professional magicians to develop some simple yet effective magic tricks that would double as therapeutic exercises for children and young adults with motor disorders that effect one or both sides of the body.
Tricks using sponge balls, rubber bands, and paperclips were taught to these patients, where they could practice slight of hand movements. Ten minutes of practice a day showed significant improvement in their motor skills enough to warrant further testing and treatment.
Another benefit of teaching magic to these patients is the benefit of laughter. The magic is fun and entertaining allowing these patients to laugh and have fun. There are many studies showing the benefits of laughter.
Although most of these diseases can’t be cured, the fact that magic can enhance their quality of life is a huge benefit. Never underestimate the power of magic!
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