Toys for Toddlers with Autism

Tap to Read ➤ Suketu Mehta

When it comes to choosing toys for toddlers with autism, one has to keep certain factors in mind - these will be explained in here, and certain options for the kind of toys that you can choose will be given as well.

Autism, which is a subtype of Autism Spectrum condition (ASD), is a brain abnormality-related developmental condition. It affects social, communicative, and behavioral skills; it usually manifests in youngsters between the ages of two and three and lasts a lifetime.

Autistic children do not develop like normal children would. They have difficulty in following social behavior and norms, and in forming normal relationships. Since autism is a broad spectrum disorder, the symptoms differ from toddler to toddler. By extension therefore, the toys and activities that one chooses for toddlers with autism will also differ.

How Autistic Children are Different

Autistic children are not open to social communication like other children, they talk very little (barring their immediate family), do not make proper eye contact, might not like being touched or cuddled, hate changes in their routine, are prone to repetitive behavior patterns, and are comfortable following a set routine.

Moreover, they might not follow the same developmental patterns as other children do. In normal developmental patterns, several stages of development take place simultaneously in a harmonious manner, but in the case of autistic children, the varied forms of development might take place separately - all this has an effect on the way they behave.

Please Note: The images used here are for representational purposes only. They do not tag the children featured in them as autistic.

Best Toys for Autistic Children Choose toys for autistic toddlers that aid in developing physical, cognitive, social, and language skills, as their development may differ. Opt for toys tailored to their needs rather than those for typical toddlers.

Autistic children are extremely creative and many tend to excel in fields of math, music, art, and other visual skills in later life -- thus choosing toys which helps channelize and encourage this creativity is important.

Several toy manufacturing companies design specialized toys meant especially for children diagnosed with autism. Make sure you ask for these when you go to a store. In the meantime, here are a few choices that you can look into so that you have a clearer idea of what you should be getting them.

Crayons and Activity Books A very interesting activity that is highly recommended is the use of crayons and activity books. This helps keep the child engaged, while simultaneously inculcating cognitive skills in him.

Play Dough A great toy that toddlers love. The variety that this activity provides keeps them engaged for long periods. This helps stimulate most of their senses and helps them learn skills like cognitive thinking, learning, and problem solving.

Animated Videos Autistic children benefit immensely from animated or sing-along videos, which aid with language learning and copying of character mannerisms.

Activity Toys These toys have several types of activities built in one structure. These prove to be thoroughly engaging for the child. It stimulates all their senses and helps develop motor skills and cognitive abilities in the child.

Teething Toys Provide teething rings to children during teething to keep them from placing unsanitary items in their mouths and to successfully relieve their discomfort.

Automatic Musical Toys Toddlers adore musical blocks because they allow them to mix and match sounds from various instruments, resulting in intriguing and unique compositions that keep children interested.

Rattles Rattles usually have a particular sound(s) fitted in to help attract a toddler's attention. This helps develop not only their sense of sound, but also their motor skills while they grasp the rattle.

Musical Toys Musical toys engage a child's senses by producing appealing noises. With so many possibilities accessible, caregivers can select toys that effectively pique their child's interest.

The puzzle mat is a wonderful tool for helping children develop their organizational abilities, motor skills, and balance. It teaches kids how to hop on one foot and jump on two feet, making it both entertaining and informative. Hopscotch Puzzle Mat

Books Books are a popular choice when it comes to teaching a child the necessary skills of understanding, as well as developing his cognitive and problem-solving abilities.

Coloring and activity books designed specifically for autistic toddlers, with vibrant drawings and interactive materials such as yarn or wool, are ideal for activating their senses and developing engagement and interest.

Stacking Toys Autistic children like arranging and frequently exhibit repetitive activities. Stacking toys meet this demand, while bright colors and shapes stimulate young senses.

Lacing Beads These beads are popular among autistic children because they are drawn to the many colors and can build motor and gripping skills by arranging them in certain patterns.

Puzzles Puzzles can be of several types - the most popular of which are jigsaw puzzles. It is recommended that one starts off with simple puzzles and gradually increases the difficulty level.

Blocks Building blocks are another great way in which an autistic child can learn the varied skills, and by manner of which all his senses get stimulated.

Blocks can be of several types - they can be a part of a building activity (ideal in case of older toddlers) or simple blocks that can stacked (ideal in case of younger toddlers). These are available in different colors, shapes, sizes and sounds, are sturdy, and do not tumble easily.

Tricycle/ Trampoline Autistic children, having sensory imbalanced systems can become aware of the various body positions and body responses while riding a bike or playing on the trampoline.

Also, jumping and balancing on the trampoline helps to integrate various body systems.

A tricycle is a great toy to improve balance and boost confidence levels in autistic children. The child may need time to get used to the bike and will require support. However, with time they usually improve and start riding fast on their own. It is better to ride on a flat surface like a driveway or at the park, as it is much easier for children to learn.

While getting toys for autistic children, keep their mental level in mind, as every child has different levels of autism. If the child prefers a certain kind of toy, get him that, as it will develop his interest and keep him engaged for longer periods. Be careful not to get the child addicted to any particular toy by providing him with a variety of toys.

It is better to provide them with a few, good toys rather than a lot of them. Too many toys can be a little overwhelming and crowded for the child. It becomes easier for the child if he is given a few, selected toys which suit his needs and keep him engrossed.

Another thing that parents can do is to take their child with them when they shop for toys. This way, the child gets to see the available toys in the market and pick up whatever he likes.

Picking up toys for autistic children can get a little difficult at times, but it is important to take an interest and get the child a toy that suits him best. Playing with the right toys will ensure that the child does not lack in confidence and is able to interact with others around him.