By: Dr. Dima Saad Al-Shaawan
Play is a fundamental part of the cognitive development of children with autism, as it enhances social skills, communication skills, emotional regulation, motor skills, and critical thinking. According to studies, these toys provide safe and stimulating environments for children with autism by leveraging their interests and offering interactive experiences, which leads to better learning outcomes.
This article provides parents with important guidelines for selecting appropriate toys that can support their child’s social, sensory, and cognitive development.
Criteria for Choosing Toys That Fit Your Child’s Unique Needs
- Choose toys with clear rules and objectives, as many individuals with autism prefer structured environments because they provide a clear framework for understanding how things work, reducing anxiety.
- Ensure toys have clear educational, training, or informational goals that match the child’s needs.
- Content should be designed to meet specific learning goals, focusing on the child’s interests, strengths, and areas for improvement, such as social and behavioral skills. For example, teaching turn-taking during play, which can be challenging for some children with autism.
- Provide variety in activities, including puzzles, role-play, and interactive storytelling, to maintain engagement and adapt to preferences.
- Include visual supports and simple, clear instructions, while considering sensory sensitivities by reducing overstimulating features. Examples include sensory play materials like kinetic sand, and calming visual or auditory stimuli such as rhythmic lights or noise-canceling headphones.
- Consider the child’s age and developmental stage, and consult specialists when needed to identify appropriate activities.
Types and Examples of Suitable Toys for Children with Autism
Below are different types of toys and activities suited to the needs of children with autism, along with their benefits:
1-Drawing and Crafts
- A non-verbal creative outlet for self-expression, such as clay modeling or drawing
- Develops fine motor skills by improving hand-eye coordination through the use of pencils, colors, and art tools
- Enhances emotional regulation and sensory integration, helping children identify their feelings
- Provides sensory benefits by exploring textures, colors, and smells (e.g., sand play or water play)
- Helps process sensory input through controlled exposure to different materials such as soft clay, rough paper, scented or unscented playdough, and visual stimuli like colorful or shiny materials
- Builds self-confidence through completing small achievements, such as finishing an art project
2-Puzzles and Building/Construction Toys
- Strengthen problem-solving and cognitive skills
- Require analytical thinking and planning, supporting logical reasoning
- Encourage creativity and imagination through building activities
- Improve spatial awareness by assembling pieces (e.g., LEGO) and understanding dimensions
3-Computer and Video Games
Although there is a common belief that video games negatively affect child development, many educational and interactive games can be beneficial when chosen wisely.
Video games include digital games played on computers or gaming consoles, often requiring players to complete tasks or solve challenges. Their benefits include:
- Improving hand-eye coordination through precise movements and quick responses
- Enhancing cooperation and communication in multiplayer games
- Stimulating cognitive skills through strategy-based games, problem-solving, and critical thinking
Important Note for Parents
It is not necessary to buy toys specifically designed for children with developmental disorders. Children with autism can play with any type of toy, but they may engage with them differently. They may show repetitive or individual play, strong focus on specific details, or unique play patterns such as organizing toys in a specific order or focusing on visual elements like colors to create structure.
Choosing appropriate toys for children with autism is a key step in supporting their overall development and helping them adapt to their environment. Investing in these activities not only enhances children’s skills but also builds their self-confidence, paving the way for a brighter and more independent future.
References:
https://www.mastermindbehavior.com/post/the-importance-of-teaching-turn-taking-skills-in-autism
https://riseupforautism.com/blog/10-fun-and-educational-activities-for-children-with-autism
