Ailu: An Affordable Sensorized Toy for Detection of Neuro and Motor Delays in Infants

Abstract

Early detection of neurodevelopmental disorders in infants is critical for early intervention to improve their long-term function. Integrating natural play with quantitative measurements of developmental milestones may help to quickly and efficiently identify infants at-risk for developmental delays. Ailu is a sensorized toy designed to elicit and measure natural infant play interactions. Ailu is part of the Play and Neuro Development Assessment (PANDA) gym, whose purpose is to serve as a universal and quantitative screening tool for detection of delays. This case study describes design considerations made developing Ailu and evaluates Ailu’s potential in upper limb, lower limb, and parent-guided testing with a 3-month old infant. Ailu can encourage reaching, kicking, and grasping, and will be tested for distinguishing typical and atypical development with further infant trials.