Toys for Autism- choosing the right birthday gift

When a child’s birthday is approaching, parents and grandparents are asking what toys would be good to buy for the kiddo with Autism. Here are some great suggestions to meet the different needs of each child and stimulate the brain as well.

Gross Motor and Sensory Input–

Swing:  A swing is both fun and calming for the child with Autism.  With the variety of attachments that can be purchased, such as a glider, your child can have a variety of ways to improve core stability, have fun and get regulated.  With the Rainy Day Indoor Support Bar, you can use a doorway for the swing.  Another option if you have a larger space, such as a basement, is to put a swing joist mounted to the ceiling.  Many options of swings are available such as the platform swing, etc.

Trampoline:  A trampoline is just so much fun.  It’s also a great way for kids to get regulated and get that extra energy out.  Fun and Function says, “Trampolines are one of the best methods for filtering sensory information and managing sensory overload.”

Peanut or Exercise balls: A peanut ball is great when used instead of chair during seated activities such as homework, watching TV, or meals.  The peanut ball provides more stability for children than an average chair and helps children to strengthen their core muscles.  Round exercise balls can be used to bounce on or roll on with the child laying on her stomach.  There are a multitude of physical games, positions, and activities that can be done with an exercise ball.

Fine Motor–

Play-Doh:  Play-doh is a great activity to help your child with tactile aversions gradually become more comfortable with textures.  Play-Doh can be used to elicit a lot of language as well and is a great interactive activity when done with a partner or parent.

Silly Putty:  Similar to play-doh, Silly Putty is great for tactile input, and strengths fine motor hand muscles a bit more than Play-Doh due to it’s tougher consistency.

Finger Crayons:  Large finger crayons are a great way for children to begin to develop drawing skills while their grasp is still immature. Large children’s crayons are developed in a way that help children naturally develop the proper tripod grip as they hold the crayon.