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Caring for an autistic child can be a pain in the back because of their special needs. Whether you are a parent, doctor, or therapist, finding the best sensory toys for autism can be quite a challenge. We're here to help you make the right choice when it comes to finding these toys. Our comprehensive guide will give you all the information you need to find the perfect sensory toy for your special needs child.
As explained in Maybe, It's Time You Understand And Embrace Autism, Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the way individuals interact with their environment and process sensory input. It has been reported that 90% of those with ASD have some form of abnormal sensory experiences.[1] This means that those with Autism may require special kinds of sensory input, such as through the use of sensory toys, for them to process and respond to their environment effectively.
Sensory toys such as sensory fidget toys and softballs can help improve concentration, body awareness, and motor skills while providing comfort.[2]
Note: You may learn more about Autism in Connecting With The Autism Spectrum.
This new bingo game board includes emotion and feeling cards to be used as games for kids with sensory issues to help with social skills, emotions, and self-esteem.
Rating: 4.4/5
Board games, art projects, and trivia games can increase the level of involvement and initiatives of autistic kids. Additionally, these projects can improve fine motor skills like writing, and drawing, while improving emotion regulation.
This particular board game is specifically designed to teach different emotions of people in different situations. It can also help kids relate to different social cues and develop more appropriate responses in similar situations. Moreover, this game will help them build self-confidence and self-esteem by allowing them to learn different social skills from the comfort of their homes.[3][4]
Craftikit offers 20 comprehensive kids' art and craft projects that are fitting for children aged three years old and above, with most 5-and-up able to do it without needing much help.
Rating: 4.8/5
The above-mentioned research suggests art projects for kids with sensory issues. This specified craft kit is tailored to offer a sense of accomplishment while improving fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. It comes with easy-to-follow instructions and materials that are safe and non-toxic.
The kits include fun, engaging activities that help young children develop their skills in design, color selection, pattern making, and 3D building. Therefore, this will be an excellent sensory toy to improve creativity and mental stimulation.[5]
This trampoline is made from durable, weather-resistant material and features an enclosure netting to keep kids safe. Its construction material makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, and its sturdiness allows it to hold up to 220 lbs.
Rating: 4.2/5
Deep-pressure toys are an increasingly popular therapeutic tool used to support autism patients. Research into our sense of touch leads to new treatments for Autism; research has exhibited that touch therapy offers a plethora of advantages to those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), including reduced muscle spasms and social uneasiness.
Trampolines are proven to be a great source of deep-pressure therapy for ASD patients. In fact, the use of trampolines is quickly becoming a widespread therapeutic tool for ASD patients. This specific product has safety features that allow it to safely support patients with low muscle tone, providing them with a safe and secure environment. Therefore we chose Fashion Sport Trampoline as the best trampoline for ASD patients.[6][7][8]
This remote control toy robot dog performs tricks, dances to the music, sits, stands, barks, and more. It is a fun toy robot that can be moved around the room.
Rating: 4.4/5
For those with Autism, sounds can be an overwhelming struggle. The noises from residential home appliances and familiar pet sound-making sensory toys could actually help desensitize children who may find the sound to be distressing. By introducing these common noises in a safe and controlled way, kids are able to better manage their sensory overload. So, an auditory toy like this toy robot dog can be a great sensory toy if your kid has a phobia of noises.
The robot dog encourages sensory exploration, helps boost confidence, and reduces fear of sudden noises. With this toy, your child can have fun and practice feeling comfortable in their surroundings at the same time.[9][10]
This is a battery-powered vibrating pillow that helps reduce stress and anxiety. It features an ultra-plush, velvety soft cover that is gentle on sensitive skin, providing even more comfort and relief for users. The pressure-activated pillow gently vibrates with a squeeze and is designed to be the perfect size for home use or take it on the go!
Rating: 4.2/5
Vibrating sensory toys can provide sensory stimulation and reduce stress. They also help to provide deep pressure and calming effects. Vibrating sensory toys in aiding verbal initiations and responses for children, thereby encouraging them to participate more readily in social exchange.[11][12]
This amazing Chew Necklace set is perfect for Sensory Girls and Kids with Autism! It includes five chewy silicone necklaces in bright pink. You'll get one biscuit, one donut, one stick, one feather, and one circle for a fun and varied selection. The chew pendant textures are soft but sturdy, perfect for kids or adults who are sensitive to texture.
Rating: 4.5/5
Chew toys are a type of sensory aid that can help autistic patients with self-regulation and anxiety relief. As stated by NIH, chewing on hard objects is a common stimming behavior in people with ASD, and chew toys can provide a safe outlet for this urge.
Moreover, research about autistic adults' views and experiences of stimming has revealed that stimming may alleviate overwhelming sensory input and also provide emotional stabilization from distress like anxiety in people with sensory needs.[13][14][15]
The Special Supplies Buzz Buddy Oral Stimulation kit is specifically designed to help children with Autism who are sensitive to the tactile experience of their mouths and jaws. This calming oral sensory kit features a vibrating "wand" with six interchangeable heads that provide multiple ways to stimulate the mouth, lips, gums, and jaw.
Rating: 4.5/5
As explained above, this product provides an effective multi-sensory solution for children with Autism. For those who struggle to regulate their emotions and behaviors, this toy can help provide a calming and soothing effect. With its combination of vibration and chewing, it helps reduce stress by providing tactile clues and stimulating sensory points. This can also help in speech therapy sessions and feeding needs by providing the necessary tactile input needed to decrease food aversion and sensitivities.[16]
The Aokitec Sensory Kids Swing is the perfect way to keep your little ones relaxed and comfortable. This cocoon-like swing uses a gentle rocking motion to provide a soothing hug-like effect, giving your children the sensory input they need to stay calm and centered. It comes with all the necessary hardware for easy installation, allowing you to quickly set up the swing in any space.
Rating: 4.5/5
Swinging is an excellent way to encourage gross motor skills in kids with ASD. It is a fun toy with engaging activity that promotes sensory exploration while providing the opportunity to develop balance and coordination.
PubMed studies have shown that swinging has positive effects on children with Autism. The findings of these studies suggest that swing therapy may help improve balance and coordination among individuals with autism spectrum disorders.[17][18]
The needs of each autistic child can vary greatly, which can make it difficult for parents to know what type of sensory toys may be the most appropriate for their child. So, if you are unsure of what type of sensory toys to choose for your autistic child, do not hesitate to reach out and ask your child's occupational therapist for direction.
Sensory items such as weighted blankets, pressure vests, deep-pressure massage, sensory balls, and chewable jewelry can help with autism sensory overload. However, consult with a professional for advice on what types of items will work best for them, as every individual will have different needs. Other strategies for managing sensory overload can include deep breathing, distraction techniques, and creating a calming environment.
Yes, sensory activities can be very beneficial for individuals with Autism. Sensory activities can help to both calm and stimulate the senses, as well as help the individual to focus and regulate emotions. Sensory activities can also help to reduce anxiety, provide calming effects, and offer relief from stress.
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