Toys for autists & ADHD

Children with autism do not always play with the same interests as other children. Choosing toys for a child with autism can sometimes be challenging  for children. We often hear that children with autism all want to play. Let the child guide  in choosing autism toys. Age Recommendations for toys you may better ignore unless it can cause dangerous situations. And do not be guided by what other children of the same age enjoy.

Every child, autistic or not, is unique.

1. observe the playing child. Many children with a disorder in the autism spectrum will play with parts of the toy, instead of the whole. But it does indicate what they find attractive in terms of color, movement and material.
2. Pay attention to 'self-stimulatory'Behavior. This usually indicates a sensory needs. Choose toys which can be used to meet those needs. Some children waving their hands, might want to have a rattle.
3. Take another look at the Personal development plan. Sometimes, fine and gross motor skills need to be developed. Look for toys that support this.
4. Find toys that are made specifically for sensory stimulation, Development and social skills. There is some toys specially made but it can also be everyday toys.
5. Choose toys for children with autism that combine sensory stimuli . Ideal choices are swings, sitting / rotation (outside) toys, trampolines and ball pools. (Gross motor skills, hand / eye coordination, balance and visual stimulation)
6. Don't forget the simple toys: blocks, balls, classic board games serve many purposes including interaction. simple games can be used as well: imitation, wait your turn, learn to help the child to develop social skills.
7. But even a mess!  The best toy gives children the chance to experience unfamiliar materials. Think of sand and water tables, modeling clay and finger paints. Use uncooked macaroni, rice and lentils as a sensory box.
8. A musical instrument is an excellent toy for children with autism. It requires the use of several senses and can be used for developing language. Wind instruments develop oral skills and motor skills. Drum, percussion and xylophones are great for fine motor skills, visual and audio stimulation.

People tell us that limiting  the TV -and computer time is important. You can do that, for example, on a plate with pictograms or by making a schedule. However, they will first be bored and perhaps contentious, but insist! (And put that into the schedule or daily schedule). The dog together an exhaust end, cooking together, games ....Above all, the attention and results they will eventually and hopefully understand that computer and tv cannot be all. You do have everything very predictable and make clear that this is the most important rule. We frequently hear good results when parents and child work together with a play therapist.Join a Play-o-library and try out their toys.

We are particularly pleased with the Cacoon's hanging tent. With a Cacoon hanging tent a child has a place to retire. There are Cacoon's hanging tents for 1 and 2 persons.

When you are looking for autism toys and cannot find them, please contact us. Per Sempre Toys has a wide network of suppliers and we are happy to help.