An early-intervention tool for children with autism, aged 4-8, designed to replace repetitive behaviours (arm flapping, head banging, etc.) with a less distracting, less harmful alternative.
*Featured on designboom & yanko design.*
Extensive research, observation, and expert consultation highlighted the difficulty of keeping autistic children focused in the classroom due to distracting repetitve behaviours.
Preliminary market research revealed four major product categories currently on the market. There was a noted deficiency of products specifically geared towards maintaining focus in the classroom. *Click image to view full-size.*
Concepts were developed exploring effective ways to keep children focused in the classroom.
Sketch models exploring material, form, and tactility.
Modeling and casting the final form in a double layer of silicone with embedded LEDs.
Prototypes were tested and refined with a classroom of 9 autistic children, aged 6-8. Testing allowed children to first acclimate to the new product, then tested Repeat's effectiveness. The children instinctively understood the concept and enjoyed using the product.
Packaging was designed to include a ‘try-me’ window, material information, various product features, and a diagrammatic set of instructions.
Repeat's soft and stretchy surface can be tugged on, squeezed, rubbed, or bitten, providing a replacement for repetitive behaviour and a safe alternative to any harmful behaviour (ex. head banging).
Students are taught to use the wristband for timed intervals, as indicated by LED lights. A counter records each time the timer is set, creating an opportunity for goal-setting.
Instructions for classroom use were developed and revised throughout the user testing sessions.
Exploded view.