![]() ![]() (who asked me to use initials to protect her son’s privacy) sat across from a woman named Jackie, who recounted the disappearance of her own boy. attended a conference in Newport, R.I., filled with autism clinicians, researchers and a few desperate parents. wanted her warm and exuberant boy back.Ī few months later, B. ![]() It was unbearable.” More than anything in the world, L. “All of a sudden, he was just fading away, falling apart. “He had been this happy, happy little guy,” L. His easygoing manner gave way to tantrums and head-banging. He no longer made eye contact, no longer seemed to hear, no longer seemed to understand the random words he sometimes spoke. seemed to regress, and by age 2, he had fully retreated into his own world. He met every developmental milestone and delighted in every discovery. For more from Lindsey Biel, M.A., OTR/L – watch her most recent ARI webinar, Sensory Strategies during the Pandemic here.At first, everything about L.'s baby boy seemed normal. You can find more information about choosing toys that support specific areas such as sensory issues, collaborative play, or motor skills, on Biel’s website –. “Art supplies are always good if you make sure they are non-toxic and won’t make a mess,” Biel says. “Hand fidgets and weighted stuffed toys may be big hits, too.”Īs children develop more abstract skills, you can consider visual perceptual challenges, board games, and make-it kits. “Younger children often benefit from sensory-based play such as Play-Doh sets and Discovery Putty while older kids might prefer Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty,” Biel says. Choosing holiday gift toys for children with autism by age and stageĬhoosing an appropriate toy depends more on the child’s interests and play skills than on their age. Biel’s recommendations for toys can be found on her website. You can find these toys anywhere you like to shop. Your goal is much simpler to purchase a holiday gift toy that the child will love. Those are more targeted to professionals with specific therapeutic goals in mind. Ordering inexpensive toys online can pose a safety risk if those toys have not been inspected for quality and safety.įortunately, you don’t have to buy expensive toys from therapy catalogs and websites. In general, it’s important to make sure that any toy you purchase meets health and safety guidelines for the U.S. “The way to really boost the beauty of that gift would be for you to make a date with the child to do it together if you know the parents are already overloaded,” Biel said. ![]() Science kits like crystal growing kits, electronic snap circuit kits, multi-step craft projects, and some board games are great fun for many kids, but they can require more of a time commitment from parents. “Never buy a toy that requires adult assistance unless you are ready to assist or you have asked the parents,” Biel says. It’s far better to ask for a parent’s guidance than to assume that a child will like the toy based entirely on their age or gender. Remember that all children develop at different rates and have different interests. Biel herself chooses toys for her clients based on their therapeutic goals and interests.īiel cautions against buying a toy just because it’s popular among kids of that age group. Asking the parents is always a good first step. Remember that choosing the right holiday gift for a child with autism depends on the child’s needs and interests. For example, does the child mouth toys? If so, be sure to avoid any toy with small parts that can break off and pose a choking hazard. Plus, speaking to parents or caregivers will help you avoid potential health and safety issues. Talking to the parent or asking the child for a holiday wish list can ensure that your gift is one the child will enjoy. “Also, there’s nothing wrong with asking the child or the family for suggestions!” Biel adds. For children interested in a video game-like Minecraft, you can choose from the wide range of Minecraft branded products that include everything from Lego sets to novels. ![]() They might enjoy a plush toy, a coloring book, or a book on drawing their favorite characters. She gives the example of a teenager who adores Sesame Street. “Always consider and respect the individual’s special interests regardless of the person’s age, and remember there are many ways to respect those enthusiasms,” Biel said. What should you consider when choosing a toy for a child with autism? ![]()
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