Leo Chao’s ‘Beagle Scarf’ was created to aid Autistic people in times of stress. Some studies have shown music, textured toys and aromatherapy to be of great benefit in alleviating the stress and discomfort often associated with Autism. The Taiwanese-born, American-raised designer created the scarf which can be gently wrapped around the head. Inlaid speakers rest near, (but not too close) to the ears allowing the hood to play soothing music when activated by the wearer. Customized aroma patches line the hood and pockets with a textured lining are also used within the design. No word yet on whether the design will have a commercial release.
[via Yanko Design]
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This looks awesome .. great design: function + form…
As to the function though…I’m familiar with the use of “weighted vests” to aid in comforting and assisting children with Autism…but how would this hood fair for an autistic child? Would it be too confining/limiting?
I would love to see some medical proof of the function.
June 18th, 2009 at 2:17 pm
good way to make autistic kids look even more strange and outcasted in public.. that hood is the ugliest thing i’ve ever seen..
June 22nd, 2009 at 3:35 am
I disagree, Lateef. It looks like something that would be sold at American Apparel. Actually rather fashion-forward. And someone wearing it who was calm and collected would still stand out far less than someone rocking back and forth or hitting themselves, no matter what they’re wearing.
June 22nd, 2009 at 9:58 am
oops, I mean kmaz.
I would take this over piling on more meds any day. These are the kinds of therapies that should be getting more research funds.
June 22nd, 2009 at 9:59 am
American Apparel is not fashion-forward, this however is.
June 22nd, 2009 at 5:30 pm
I’ve just shown this design to my 11-year old autistic son. His comment was “That’s coool. I could have that.” I think its a great idea and don’t believe it would make autistic children stand out at all – probably less so if it helped the child cope with a stressful situation. It looks so like a hoodie it would probably just blend in with the crowd.
June 25th, 2009 at 1:02 pm