Discovering suitable toys for children with autism can be a significant challenge for parents and caregivers. Ensuring that the toys are not only enjoyable but also cater to the unique sensory needs of autistic children is crucial. In the United Kingdom, there is a growing awareness and demand for autism-friendly toys that can enhance sensory play experiences.
What is Sensory Play?
Sensory play holds immense value for children with autism. It involves activities that engage their senses, such as touch, sight, sound, and movement. By providing a stimulating and interactive environment, sensory play helps children with autism develop crucial skills while fostering engagement and enjoyment.
Our Criteria for Autism-Friendly Toys in the UK
First and foremost, safety is a top priority. Ensure that the toys are free from small parts, sharp edges, or any other potential hazards that could pose a risk to children with autism.
Durability is also essential, as autistic children may engage in repetitive behaviours or have more intense play patterns. Look for toys that are sturdy and can withstand rough handling.
The sensory appeal is a crucial aspect of autism-friendly toys. We have sought out toys that offer a variety of textures, colours, sounds, and movements to engage different senses. Such toys can help autistic children explore and respond to sensory stimuli in a way that is both enjoyable and beneficial for their development.
Additionally, we have looked out for toys that promote communication, creativity, and interaction. Toys that support language development or provide opportunities for imaginative play can also be highly beneficial for children with autism.
Top 10 Sensory Toys for Autism in the UK
Sensory Balls by Tangle Creations
These vibrant and textured balls provide a multi-sensory experience, offering different shapes, sizes, and textures to engage children’s tactile senses. They are durable, easy to grip, and perfect for squeezing, stretching, or tossing. Shop them on their official website.
Squigz by Fat Brain Toys
Squigz is silicone suction construction toys that stick to each other and smooth surfaces, allowing children to build and create in endless ways. They offer auditory feedback, and visual stimulation, and enhance fine motor skills.
Liquid Motion Bubbler by Super Z Outlet
This mesmerizing toy features cascading liquid and colourful bubbles in a soothing visual display. The slow movement of the liquid promotes visual tracking, and relaxation, and can be used for calming sensory breaks.
Magformers by Magformers UK
These magnetic building blocks provide endless possibilities for creative play. They enhance fine motor skills, and spatial reasoning, and encourage imaginative construction.
Sensory Chew Necklace by Chewigem
Designed specifically for oral sensory needs, these necklaces provide a safe and discreet outlet for chewing. They come in various shapes, textures, and strengths, catering to different sensory preferences. Check them out on their official website!
Therapy Putty by Special Supplies
Therapy putty offers tactile exploration and hand-strengthening benefits. It comes in different resistance levels, providing a customizable sensory experience for children who enjoy squishing and moulding.
Bubble Tube by Playlearn
This tall, colour-changing bubble tube provides a captivating visual display and gentle bubbling sounds. It offers a calming and stimulating environment, perfect for sensory rooms or quiet corners. Purchase now from their official store!
Lacing Beads by Melissa & Doug
Lacing beads encourage fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and sequencing abilities. The chunky, colourful beads are easy to grip and string, providing a fun and educational play experience. Shop more on the official store!
Fidget Spinner by Zuru
Fidget spinners offer a compact sensory tool that can help children focus and regulate their emotions. With smooth spinning motion, they provide tactile stimulation and can be used for stress relief.
Sensory Play Kit by Fun and Function
This comprehensive kit includes a variety of sensory toys, such as textured balls, fidget tools, visual stimulation items, and more. It offers a well-rounded sensory play experience with options to cater to different sensory needs. Find more on their official store!
These autism-friendly toys in the UK provide children with autism the opportunity to engage in meaningful and enjoyable play experiences while promoting sensory exploration, creativity, and skill development.
By Lewis Clennan
Student Author
