Developmental toys for autistic toddlers
Toys play a vital role in a child’s developmental journey, offering avenues for learning, growth, and enjoyment. They contribute to the development of cognitive, physical, social, and emotional skills in children.
In contemporary parenting, there is a notable preference for learning-oriented toys. While this inclination is valid, it is crucial to recognize that not every toy needs to have an educational focus. Children also benefit from toys that provide simple enjoyment and facilitate spontaneous play.
Play is a universal need for all children, transcending cultural, gender, and neurological differences. For children with autism, play holds particular significance as it aids in stress reduction, anxiety alleviation, and overall well-being.
When children with autism engage in enjoyable play, they are more likely to be actively involved and motivated, contributing to enhanced developmental outcomes. Furthermore, the positive associations formed with play during fun activities encourage continued participation, leading to a cascade of benefits.
When selecting toys for a child with autism spectrum disorder, it is essential to choose items that are not only fun and engaging but also developmentally appropriate. This blog delves into the considerations and guidelines for choosing toys tailored to the needs of autistic children.
Choosing Toys for Autistic Children Based
Navigating the diverse spectrum of autism requires a tailored approach to selecting toys, acknowledging that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. However, there are useful guidelines to aid in making thoughtful choices.
Firstly, it’s essential to consider the child’s developmental milestones. Many autistic children may experience developmental delays, and selecting toys that specifically address these delays can be highly beneficial. For instance, if a child is grappling with fine motor skills, opting for toys that involve picking up small objects or manipulating intricate parts may be a helpful choice.
Another crucial factor to weigh is the child’s level of autism, which can be broadly categorized into high-functioning and low-functioning.
High-Functioning Autistic Children:
These children are generally more independent with fewer developmental delays. Toys that are more intricate and demand abstract thinking skills can be suitable. Options such as construction toys (e.g., Lego building blocks), puzzles, board games, arts and crafts supplies, and educational toys are often well-received by high-functioning autistic children.
Low-Functioning Autistic Children:
Children in this category may require more assistance in their daily lives and can benefit from sensory toys offering stimulation and comfort. Consider selecting toys like fidget toys, weighted blankets, light-up toys, talking dolls, musical toys, pegboards, puzzles with large pieces, stuffed animals, and dolls to cater to their specific needs.
What to Consider When Selecting Toys for Children with Autism?
When choosing a holiday gift for a child with autism, it’s crucial to prioritize the child’s needs and interests. Initiating a conversation with the parents is the best starting point, as they can provide specific recommendations and alert you to any potential health or safety concerns. For instance, if the child tends to mouth toys, opting for items without small parts that could pose a choking hazard is advisable.
If you’re in search of toys suitable for autistic toddlers, the selection process can be challenging. Sensory toys stand out as an excellent choice for individuals on the spectrum or those with sensory issues, offering a fun and secure means for children to engage their senses. While some toys focus on calming autistic toddlers, others contribute to developmental growth, creative expression, and sensory stimulation. Here’s a roundup of eight toys perfect for autistic toddlers:
Bubble Push Pop Fidget Toys:
These push and poke bubble poppers offer a calming distraction for children experiencing intense emotions. The repetitive push pop abilities serve as a sensory fidget toy, enhancing concentration, productivity, and stress relief. Crafted from high-quality, safe, non-toxic silicone, these toys are child-friendly, easy to clean, and durable.
>>> Harnessing the Power of Therapeutic Toys for Autism Intervention: A Comprehensive Guide
Multi-Sensory Toys:
For children seeking sensory input, multi-sensory toys like the Lil’ Dreamers LED Light are ideal. Providing visual and tactile comfort, these toys allow exploration of shapes and light in an enjoyable manner. Suitable as a first night light for children aged 6 months and older, they remain favorites for older children who can choose light settings to match their mood.
Bilibo Seats:
The Bilibo Seat may appear as a simple seat, but it is a versatile and innovative toy that combines fun and education. Its unique design encourages the playful expansion of motor skills and balance while fostering creativity. With endless possibilities, including rocking, spinning, sitting, hiding, and peeking through, the Bilibo is a valuable investment suitable for children aged over 12 months, available in vibrant colors.
Sensory Weighted Toys:
Offering a perfect blend of lowered stimulation and comforting support, sensory weighted toys cater to children aged 2 and above. These cuddly companions are not only ideal for bedtime but also serve as calming toys throughout the day. With a diverse range of designs and textures, including furry, feathery, and super-smooth options, children can form a special bond with their chosen toy. Some, like the Coz Plush Little Lamb, even feature soothing scents like lavender and can be warmed for added comfort.
Interactive Dress Up Animals:
Within the realm of plushies, dress-up animals stand out as a fantastic category for autistic toddlers. Addressing the challenges of mastering fine motor skills, these educational toys provide a fun way for children to learn tasks such as zipping, tying shoes, and unbuttoning buttons. These cute, tactile toys, suitable for children aged 2 and above, allow kids to practice daily tasks in an enjoyable manner, from unbuckling shoes to playing with Velcro.
Building Blocks:
A timeless favorite, building blocks not only unleash a child’s imagination but also contribute to their understanding of how objects work. Supporting toddlers in developing their grip and spatial skills, these toys are both educational and entertaining. Specially designed sensory bricks like Bristle Blocks add a soft-touch sensory element, making them easier for little fingers (aged 2 and up) to assemble.
Creative Play Experiences:
For those seeking to nurture creativity and artistic expression, a sensory art kit is an ideal choice. These kits, suitable for children aged 2 and above, encompass various materials and textures to encourage sensory development, fine motor skill enhancement, imaginative play, and emotional expression. They promise a genuine sensory adventure for young minds.
Bath Time Toys:
Elevate bath time into a sensory learning experience with water toys like the Rain Cloud. As your child witnesses the principles of physics in action, the flow of water both calms and delights. Transform bath time into an enjoyable ritual, inspiring stories and dreams for a restful night ahead.
If uncertainty persists about the right toy for your child, feel free to contact us to explore our full range of sensory toys and discuss what might be most suitable for your children.
