Best Toys for Autism: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 68 children are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. That’s a lot of kids! If your child is one of them, you know that finding the right toys can be a challenge. Toys that are fun and engaging for neurotypical children may not be appropriate for autistic children. This article will discuss some of the best toys for autistic children.
It’s important to understand that different children with autism will respond differently to certain toys. Some may love interactive toys that require interaction from the child, while others may prefer solitary activities such as puzzles or building blocks. The best way to find out what your child enjoys is to experiment and ask them directly what they like to play with.
Sensory toys are great for children with autism because they provide stimulation to all five senses: sight, smell, taste, touch. These toys can be used in conjunction with other therapy, such as speech therapy or occupational therapy. For example, if you have a child who struggles to speak clearly due to motor planning difficulties, using a sensory toy that requires the child to speak to activate it can help improve their speech.
Interactive Toys: These toys require the child’s participation to function. Popular examples include electronic games, dolls that talk or sing, and building blocks that light up or make sounds. Many parents find these types of toys to be the most beneficial. They provide an enjoyable and stimulating experience while teaching the child how to interact with their environment.
