NEWS
Exploring Sensory Toys for Autism: Tools for Comfort and Stimulation
Sept 20, 2024
By ABA Psychological Services
Exploring Sensory Toys for Autism: Tools for Comfort and Stimulation
Sensory toys are designed to help children with autism spectrum disorder and stimulate their senses, like touch and sound. These autism
toys can be incorporated into daily play time to encourage communication and fine motor skills and enhance the brain's sensory processing system.
Additionally, these toys can improve focus and relaxation and be a source of comfort for individuals with autism.
This blog will provide valuable insights into how toys can positively impact autistic individuals. This comprehensive overview will cover
the various types of autism toys, the significance of sensory toys in meeting the specific needs of people with autism, and guidance on
selecting the most suitable toys for sensory stimulation.
What Are Sensory Toys for Autism?
Sensory toys for children on the autism spectrum are thoughtfully created to engage and stimulate their senses. These autism toys encourage
play and exploration and provide a calming and soothing experience. They offer a way to release frustration, stress, or anxiety and fulfill sensory
needs. Children are given the chance to have enjoyable and fulfilling play experiences.
The Role Toys Play in Enhancing Sensory Stimulation
Children with autism spectrum disorder may have a unique way of experiencing the world, with sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and touches often
being more intense for them. Sensory toys can provide a comforting and enjoyable experience for those with sensory sensitivities while offering fun
and engaging play for all children.
Sensory toys can also be powerful reinforcers or rewards in applied behavioral analysis (ABA) programs for children with autism. They can
be a positive reinforcement tool for shaping behavior and encouraging positive changes in autistic children. These toys also create a fun and
stimulating environment that motivates kids to participate in therapy sessions.
Different Types of Beneficial Autism Toys
There are a variety of Autism toys available in all shapes, sizes, and textures. Different types of toys cater to unique sensory preferences,
including sensory engagement or encouraging all the senses, sensory regulation or calming, and teaching children how to self-regulate and encourage
imaginative play.
Fidget Tools
Fidget tools are sensory stimulation toys for children with autism. They not only help kids focus and learn but also assist them in self-regulating
their emotions. These toys come in various textures and colors; some even make fun sounds. Plus, they are safe and durable for endless play. With
fidget tools, children can keep their fingers happily engaged during playtime. Some fidget tool toys include chewies, glitter balls, wristbands,
and more.
Textured Items
Textured items also make great sensory tools for children with autism. They offer entertaining and interesting tactile experiences and
encourage contact play. From silly putty to textured strings and many other stretchy or squishy toys, textured items engage children in meaningful play.
Visual Aids
Visual aids, such as objects, printed images, photographs, and line drawings, can provide beneficial sensory stimulation for children with autism.
These aids can support skill development, communication, and increased independence for individuals on the autism spectrum.
Choose the Right Sensory Toy
When choosing sensory toys for a child, it's important to consider their unique sensory preferences, interests, and needs. Consider how
the sensory toy will be used, such as whether it will help manage sensory overload or under-stimulation. Does the child need a way to self-regulate
and find the toy calming? Consider the child's preferences and play skills to make the best toy selection. Rather than focusing solely on age-appropriate
toys, consider the child's interests and what makes them curious, especially as those with autism may have different developmental timelines.
