Therapeutic play with a storytelling robot

Abstract

We are developing a prototype storytelling robot for use with children in rehabilitation. Children can remotely control a furry robot by using a variety of body sensors adapted to their disability or rehabilitation goal. We believe this robot can motivate children and help them reach their therapy goals through therapeutic play, either by exercising muscles or joints (e.g. for physically challenged children) or by reflecting on the stories (e.g. for children with developmental disabilities). To develop this technology we use an innovative design methodology involving children as design partners.