Like all children, those with autism benefit most from toys that are fun and appropriate for their developmental level. Children with autism vary greatly in their cognitive and motor abilities; many have difficulties with coordination, have short attention spans and have difficulty understanding how to engage in pretend play. Toys for autistic children can be purchased, adapted or homemade.
Fine Motor Toys
Toys that make interesting sounds, vibrate or provide interesting visual stimulation are more likely to be grasped or manipulated. There are ring stacks that play music when the last ring is added, puzzle boards that make animal sounds after each puzzle piece is inserted and shape sorters that "groan" when turned over. When young children play with these toys they learn how objects fit together and that they have different shapes, sizes and colors. These are important learning toys.
Toys also can be adapted to make them vibrate. Try inserting the motor of an electric toothbrush inside a container a child is filling. Make your own vibrating shape sorter by cutting a slit in a coffee can lid so that small picture cards can be inserted. Then insert the motor. The sound as well as the feel of the vibrating can will make this activity much more fun.
Many children with autism prefer to play with heavier objects because the weight gives them sensory feedback. Buy the heaviest building blocks available or give a child shoe boxes to stack that are filled with small bags of sand. Children with sensory issues often find that playing with heavy objects is calming.
Easy-to-Manipulate Toys
Children with motor coordination difficulties will be the most successful with toys that have large parts, are sturdy and are easy to manipulate. Offer extra large beads to string. Better yet, provide small rolls of tape to string on a piece of cord rather than using a flimsy string. The tape rolls will be larger and heavier than beads. Purchase lacing boards that have large holes in them--or make your own by cutting shapes out of cardboard. Children with decreased coordination may enjoy magnetic blocks, because the magnetic pull prevents them from easily toppling over. Toys that have Velcro parts they can pull off and put on are also fun and easy to use.
Toys on the Move
Of course, many children with autism prefer to be moving rather than sitting while they manipulate toys. Playing at sand or water tables can be enjoyed while the child is standing. Catching bubbles, balloons and beach balls develops eye-hand coordination; scooter boards and tricycles help children to use both sides of the body together. Toys that move, such as trampolines, merry-go rounds and swings, offer important sensory stimulation.
Promoting Success
Children with autism need extra adult assistance to learn how to play. When teaching a new skill, pick a time of day when the child is most rested and ready to learn. Introduce only one toy at a time, reducing all distractions. Be sure to keep play time short if, for example, stringing beads is not a favorite activity. Then have fun with rewards such as hugs, a run down the hill or jumping on a trampoline.
