Sensory toys are more than simple playthings—they are powerful tools that support children with autism in navigating sensory sensitivities and building essential life skills. By engaging the senses in targeted ways, these toys can promote self-regulation, enhance focus, and reduce anxiety. They are particularly effective when paired with ABA therapy to help create structured and meaningful interventions.
Here are six top sensory toys that have proven to be invaluable for children with autism.
Fidget Spinners and Fidget Cubes
Fidget toys are excellent for children who need a way to channel excess energy or cope with anxiety. These small, hand-held items engage the senses of touch and movement, providing calming and therapeutic stimulation.
Children with autism often benefit from the repetitive motions and tactile input these toys offer, as it helps them maintain focus and manage sensory overload. When paired with therapy, fidget toys can also help children develop strategies to navigate challenging moments, such as an autistic meltdown, by providing a sensory outlet that promotes self-regulation.
Weighted Blankets and Lap Pads
Weighted items, like blankets and lap pads, provide a comforting, deep-pressure sensation that can have a calming effect on children with autism. This sensory input mimics the feeling of a firm hug, which can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Weighted blankets are particularly useful during bedtime, as they promote relaxation and better sleep. Lap pads, on the other hand, are portable and can be used during activities that require focus, such as homework or therapy sessions. Incorporating weighted items into ABA therapy can help children remain calm and attentive, fostering an environment conducive to learning and development.
Chewable Jewelry
Chewable jewelry is specifically designed for children who seek oral sensory input. These durable and safe accessories, often worn as necklaces or bracelets, allow children to redirect chewing behaviors to appropriate items.
For children with autism, chewing can be a way to self-soothe or cope with sensory overwhelm. Chewable jewelry not only meets this sensory need but also helps reduce anxiety and improve focus. Therapists often use chewable jewelry as part of sensory integration strategies in ABA therapy in Detroit, particularly during activities that may be challenging for the child.
Kinetic Sand and Therapy Dough
These tactile toys are favorites for sensory play. Kinetic sand, with its unique texture, allows children to mold and create without making a mess, while therapy dough provides a calming, hands-on activity.
For children with autism, tactile stimulation like molding, squishing, or rolling these materials can be both soothing and engaging. They also help improve fine motor skills, making them excellent tools for developmental and therapeutic goals.
Bubble Tubes and Lava Lamps
Visual sensory toys like bubble tubes and lava lamps captivate children with their calming light and gentle, rhythmic motion. These tools are ideal for creating a soothing sensory environment.
For children with autism, these visual aids can reduce sensory overload and provide a point of focus during moments of dysregulation. Placing these toys in a quiet corner or therapy space can enhance relaxation and support self-regulation.
Sensory Swings
Sensory swings provide vestibular input, which is essential for developing balance and body awareness. The rhythmic motion of swinging can have either a calming or stimulating effect, depending on how it’s used.
For children with autism, sensory swings are a valuable tool for managing anxiety and enhancing spatial awareness. They can also serve as a reward during ABA therapy sessions, encouraging participation and positive behaviors. A sensory swing in a designated space at home or in therapy settings offers children a safe way to explore movement while regulating their emotions.
Conclusion
Sensory toys are invaluable tools for supporting children with autism as they navigate sensory challenges and work toward developmental milestones. These toys can be used to create calming environments, teach self-regulation, and support learning in a variety of settings. When paired with structured interventions like ABA therapy, sensory toys become even more effective, fostering meaningful growth and progress.
If you’re seeking expert guidance and tailored support for your child, the Achieve Center offers comprehensive ABA therapy and resources designed to empower children with autism. Contact us today to learn how we can help!