Navigating the world of sensory toys for autism can be overwhelming, especially as a parent or caregiver. I want to find the perfect toys to engage my child’s senses while supporting their unique learning and developmental needs. But don’t worry; I’m here to help! In this blog post, I’ll share my experience and insights about the best autism sensory toys tailored to various sensory needs and preferences. From fidget spinners to weighted blankets, I’ll provide you with a comprehensive list of options to help your neurodivergent child thrive.
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Why Sensory Toys Matter for Neurodivergent Kids
Sensory toys play a crucial role in the lives of kids with thinking and learning differences. They help to:
- Develop and refine sensory processing skills
- Improve focus and concentration
- Reduce anxiety and stress
- Encourage social interaction and communication
For example, sensory toys for autism can help kids develop their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Moreover, they can also provide a calming effect, making them a valuable tool for managing stress and anxiety.
Top Sensory Toys for Autism: Our Recommendations
To make your search easier, we’ve created a list of the best autism sensory toys, categorized by sensory needs.
Tactile Toys
For kids who crave tactile stimulation, these toys provide a variety of textures and sensations:
- Fidget Spinners: These popular gadgets offer a satisfying spinning sensation and can help improve focus and concentration.
- Sensory Brushes: Soft bristles provide gentle tactile input, promoting relaxation and self-regulation.
- Play-Doh or Putty: Molding and manipulating these materials can be both calming and engaging for kids with autism.
In addition to these options, you might also consider sensory toys for autism, like textured balls, stress balls, or even DIY sensory bags filled with various materials like rice, beans, or sand.
Read more: 31 Active Indoor Toys & Games for Autistic Kids
Visual Toys
For those who are visually oriented, these toys offer captivating visual stimulation:
- Liquid Motion Bubblers: These mesmerizing tubes filled with colorful liquid can help kids relax and focus.
- Light-Up Toys: From spinning tops to flashing balls, light-up toys can provide hours of visual entertainment.
- Kaleidoscopes: The ever-changing patterns and colors can be soothing and engaging for kids with autism.
Furthermore, other visually stimulating toys like lava lamps, spinning tops, or even simple puzzles can be beneficial for kids with autism.
Auditory Toys
If your child is drawn to sounds, consider these auditory toys:
- Rainmaker Toys: The soothing sound of falling beads can help kids with autism self-regulate and focus.
- Tuning Forks: The vibrations and sounds produced by tuning forks can be calming and engaging.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: For kids who are sensitive to noise, these headphones can provide a quiet sanctuary.
Meanwhile, other auditory sensory toys for autism could include musical instruments, sound machines, or even simple wind chimes.
Vestibular and Proprioceptive Toys
To support balance, coordination, and body awareness, consider these options:
- Trampolines: Jumping on a trampoline can provide proprioceptive input and help improve motor skills.
- Swings: From hammock swings to platform swings, these can offer calming vestibular input.
- Weighted Blankets: The deep pressure provided by weighted blankets can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
Read more: What Does Sensory Overload Feel Like for Someone With ADHD?
During your search for the perfect sensory toys for autism, don’t forget to explore Goally’s learning tablet for kids. Goally offers a variety of apps designed specifically for neurodivergent children, providing a fun and engaging way to support their learning and development.
Choosing the Right Sensory Toys for Your Child
When selecting sensory toys for autism, consider your child’s unique sensory preferences and needs. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:
- Observe your child: Pay attention to the types of sensory input they seek or avoid. This can give you clues about their preferences.
- Consult with professionals: Occupational therapists and other experts can provide valuable insights and recommendations.
- Trial and error: Sometimes, it takes a bit of experimentation to find the perfect sensory toy for your child. Don’t be afraid to try different options!
Goally | Apps To Support Child Development
Looking for fun ways to help your child learn life skills? Try Goally! The Goally tablet comes with award-winning learning apps and video classes to help kids develop the skills they need to become independent with FUN & evidence-based practices.
Our apps teach executive function, language, emotional regulation, finger dexterity skills, and more.
As your child develops new skills, you can increase the difficulty level of the tasks in the app to challenge and motivate them even further. This helps your child grow and progress at their own pace, while also keeping them engaged and excited about their development.
Sensory Toys Can Make a Difference
Finding the right sensory toys for autism can significantly impact your child’s well-being and development. By providing appropriate sensory input, these toys can help kids with special needs improve their focus, self-regulation, and overall quality of life. So, explore our recommendations, and discover the perfect sensory toys to support your neurodivergent child’s unique journey. And remember, Goally is here to help you every step of the way.
FAQ’s About Sensory Toys for Autism
What are sensory toys for autism? Sensory toys for autism are designed to provide specific sensory input that helps autistic children regulate their emotions, improve focus, and feel calmer. How do sensory toys help children with autism? Sensory toys help children with autism by offering tailored experiences that meet their specific sensory needs, whether it's calming, stimulating, or a balance of both. What are some popular sensory toys for autistic children? Popular sensory toys include weighted blankets, fidget spinners, textured balls, liquid motion timers, and chewable jewelry. How do I choose the right sensory toys for my child? Observe your child's sensory preferences (what they seek out or avoid) and select toys that cater to those specific needs. Where can I find sensory toys for autism? You can find sensory toys for autism at specialty online stores, therapy supply websites, and major retailers like Amazon and Target.
This post was originally published on 03/16/2023. It was updated on 02/23/2024.
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