Most children on the autism spectrum enjoy sensory toys. Sensory toys are fantastic, and they are a joy for every child struggling with distorted sensory input. Toys are made for the sensory exploration of different feels, sounds, and smells. But there's a science behind sensory toys: they help the autistic child self-regulate. One of the symptoms of autism is sensory processing disorder, an issue that makes autistic individuals highly sensitive to external stimuli. Bright lights or crowded places are enough to overstimulate the child and trigger feelings of overwhelming. As a result, the kid experiences a meltdown, a tantrum the child can't control and has no purpose.
Usually, children go to their sensory room to calm down, but you can't find such rooms when you're out. This is where toys come in handy. Sensory toys act as a calming medium that helps children process their emotions. The toys are made to stimulate a child's five senses: sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste. They come in different textures, colors, sounds and are safe to use during playtime.
It's hard to choose one for your child since he has different moods and preferences. Is your child visually-oriented? Does your child like to touch things? Many toys cater to every need. But what are the benefits of sensory toys?
Children who interact very little with people can teach them the cause and effect of their actions. Toys teach that our actions cause something in the environment to change. Toys are also great for introducing new ideas and creating new opportunities for positive interactions with peers. Furthermore, toys can help with social skills and language development. Most children learn through play.
We are here to help you choose the best toy for your autistic child. You will discover more about them, the types of toys, and how they help calm down a child.
