The Universal Design for Play Tool: Establishing Validity and Reliability

The Universal Design for Play (UDP) Tool is an instrument designed to evaluate the presence of universal design (UD) features in toys. This study evaluated its psychometric properties, including content validity, construct validity, and test-retest reliability. The UDP tool was designed to assist in selecting toys most appropriate for children with a range of abilities and interests, including those with disabilities. Development of the UDP tool began as a panel of early childhood, disability, and design experts reviewed the seven principles of UD and employed these principles to guide the development of a list of related toy features. Four focus groups, comprised of toy designers, toy buyers (persons who by toys for multiple users, such as daycare providers, therapists, teachers, etc.), and parents of children with and without disabilities were conducted. Information regarding tool content, presentation, and potential use was gathered. A draft of the UDP tool included a grouping of the most salient features found in toys successfully used by children with a range of interests and abilities. A national field test involving 123 parent and professional participants was conducted. Of the group, 85 participated in reliability testing. The results indicated strong content validity, construct validity, and test-retest reliability. These results support the use of the UDP tool to identify toys for children with a range of interests and abilities. In addition, the use of the UDP tool can assist toy designers as they attempt to include the needs of children with a broader range of abilities when creating toys.