Children with special needs often have difficulty processing sensory information. This can lead to various behaviours, including meltdowns, self-injurious behaviours, and withdrawal. Sensory toys can help kids with special needs to self-regulate and cope with the challenges of everyday life.
There are many different types of sensory toys available, so it’s essential to choose one that is appropriate for your child’s individual needs. Some factors to consider include the child’s age, developmental level, interests, and the type of sensory input they need. For example, some children may benefit from a toy that provides visual stimulation, while others may need one that incorporates movement or touch.
Sensory toys can be used in various settings, including at home, school, therapy room, or on the go. They can also be used as a calming strategy during stress or anxiety. When choosing a sensory toy for your child, it’s essential to consider their individual needs and what type of sensory input will be most beneficial for them.
Types of Sensory Toys
There are many different types of sensory toys available on the market. Here are some of the most popular types:
Visual Stimulation Toys.
These provide visual stimulation through lights, colours, and patterns. They can help children who are easily distracted or have difficulty focusing on one task. Familiar visual stimulation toys include light-up balls, spinning tops, and kaleidoscopes.
Tactile Stimulation Toys
These toys provide tactile (touch) input and are often used to calm children who struggle with sensation-seeking behaviours. Tactile stimulation toys can vary in texture, weight, and hardness. Familiar tactile stimulation toys include counting beads, fidget spinners, stress balls, and squishes.
Auditory Stimulation Toys
These toys provide auditory (sound) input and can be used to calm or focus children who are sensitive to noise or have difficulty processing auditory information. Familiar auditory stimulation toys include white noise machines, music boxes, sound machines, and baby dolls that make soothing sounds.
Olfactory Stimulation Toys
These toys provide olfactory (smell) input and can be used to calm or focus children who are sensitive to smells or have difficulty processing olfactory information. Familiar olfactory stimulation toys include scented putty/playdough, perfume/cologne sample bottles, and fabric softener sheets.
Sensory toys can be a helpful tool for kids with special needs. They can provide stimulating input for kids who are easily distracted or have difficulty focusing on one task. They can also be used as a calming strategy during stress or anxiety. When choosing a sensory toy for your child, it’s essential to consider their individual needs and what type of sensory input will be most beneficial for them. There are many types of sensory toys available on the market; some common examples include light-up balls, spinning tops, stress balls, squishies, white noise machines, music boxes, sound machines, baby dolls, scented putty/playdough perfume/cologne sample bottles fabric softener sheets.
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