Best Toys for Autistic Kids: Top Picks for Sensory Play and Development in 2024

Autistic children have unique needs when it comes to toys. They often require toys that are sensory-friendly, easy to use, and provide a calming effect. Finding the right toy for your child can be a daunting task, but we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll explore the best toys for autistic kids and provide you with the information you need to make an informed purchase.

When shopping for toys for autistic kids, it’s important to consider their sensory needs. Many autistic children are sensitive to loud noises, bright lights, and certain textures. Toys that are too overwhelming can cause anxiety and stress. On the other hand, toys that are too simple or boring may not hold their attention. Finding the right balance is key.

One type of toy that has been shown to be particularly helpful for autistic children is fidget toys. Fidget toys provide a calming effect and can help improve focus and concentration. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and textures, and can be used discreetly in a variety of settings.

When choosing a fidget toy, it’s important to consider the type of sensory input your child needs. Some children prefer toys that provide tactile stimulation, while others prefer toys that provide visual or auditory stimulation. It’s also important to consider the durability and safety of the toy, as some fidget toys can be easily broken or pose a choking hazard.

In this article, we’ll explore the best fidget toys for autistic kids, taking into account their unique sensory needs and safety concerns. Whether you’re looking for a toy to help your child focus during school or a calming toy to use at home, we’ve got you covered.

Best Toys for Autistic Kids

If you have a child with autism, finding the right toy can be a challenge. You want to find something that is both engaging and calming, but also safe and durable. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best toys for autistic kids. These toys have been carefully selected based on their sensory benefits, developmental value, and overall quality. Whether your child is looking for a soothing sensory experience or a fun and educational activity, we’ve got you covered.

Busy Board – Dinosaur Montessori Toys

If you’re looking for a fun and educational toy for your toddler, the Busy Board – Dinosaur Montessori Toys could be a great option.

Pros

• This busy board is designed with the Montessori education philosophy in mind, helping your toddler develop concentration skills.
• The flexible zipper connection on each page allows for kids activities and exercise of children’s collaboration and communication skills.
• The handbag design makes it easy for toddlers to carry, making it a great travel toy for road trips, airplanes, and other settings where quiet toys are needed.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the construction is flimsy and the assembly process can be difficult and annoying.
• The zippered middle page can come undone, and the Velcro for the letters is not very strong, causing some letters to go missing.
• The product is made in China, which may be a concern for some buyers.

This busy board is made primarily of soft and durable felt, making it a sensory toy that can help improve cognitive skills and enhance hand-eye coordination, including for children with autism and speech development delays. It’s a perfect gift for birthdays, Christmas, or any occasion, and our team is ready to help you if you have any questions.

The Busy Board – Dinosaur Montessori Toys is a fun and interactive toy that can help your child develop important skills while keeping them occupied and entertained.

BUNMO Super Sensory Stretchy Strings 6pk

If you’re looking for a sensory toy to help calm down your child with autism or ADHD, the BUNMO Super Sensory Stretchy Strings 6pk might be a great choice.

Pros

• Provides a unique tactile experience with 6 different textures and tensions that satisfy your senses and provide a pleasant sense of calm.
• Convenient and portable, they can fit easily in your backpack or desk.
• Super stretchy, durable, and easy to clean.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the seal on the packaging was not properly glued together.
• The monkey designs might not be appealing to all children.
• The strings can get stuff stuck on them.

These stretchy sensory toys are perfect for children who need something to fidget with during quiet time, timeouts, or in class. They are also great for adults who need a calming sensory toy to help reduce anxiety and stress.

The BUNMO Super Sensory Stretchy Strings 6pk is made of high-quality latex-free TPR materials, making them super durable and stretchy. They can stretch over 6 feet, providing endless entertainment for kids. The unique textures on each stretchy sensory toy provide a delightful tactile experience, making it an excellent tool for stress relief and focus enhancement.

These super sensory toys are also easy to clean and dishwasher safe, making them a great choice for parents who want a low-maintenance toy that can withstand regular use.

Overall, the BUNMO Super Sensory Stretchy Strings 6pk is a great sensory toy for kids and adults with anxiety, stress, Autism, ADHD, and ADD. It’s convenient, portable, durable, and provides hours of fun.

Scientoy Fidget Toy Set, 35 Pcs Sensory Toy for ADD, OCD, Autistic Children, Adults, Anxiety Autism to Stress Relief and Anti Anxiety with Motion Timer, Perfect for Classroom Reward with Gift Box

If you’re looking for a toy set that can help relieve stress and anxiety for autistic kids, the Scientoy Fidget Toy Set might be a great option.

Pros

• This set comes with 35 different toys, providing a lot of variety for kids to choose from.
• The toys are made from high-quality ABS material, making them safe for children to use.
• The set is packaged in a cute gift box, making it a great gift option for kids.

Cons

• Some of the toys might be too small for younger children to use without supervision.
• The set might not be suitable for older children who need more complex sensory toys.
• The toys might not be durable enough for heavy use.

The Scientoy Fidget Toy Set is a great option for parents looking for a toy set that can help relieve stress and anxiety for autistic kids. The set comes with 35 different toys, including a rainbow magic ball, a liquid motion timer, a squeeze grape ball, a maze puzzle, and more. The toys are made from high-quality ABS material, making them safe for children to use.

The set is also packaged in a cute gift box, making it a great gift option for kids. However, some of the toys might be too small for younger children to use without supervision, and the set might not be suitable for older children who need more complex sensory toys. Additionally, the toys might not be durable enough for heavy use.

In summary, if you’re looking for a toy set that can help relieve stress and anxiety for autistic kids, the Scientoy Fidget Toy Set is a great option to consider.

LoveHugs Musical Star Plush Sensory Light Up Toys

If you’re looking for a sensory toy for your child, the LoveHugs Musical Star Plush Sensory Light Up Toy is a great option.

Pros

• The calming lights, soft exterior, and soothing music can help soothe and calm your child when they need it.
• The gentle glowing colors and lullaby of “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” is perfect for making bedtime more peaceful.
• This versatile sensory equipment can be used by children of all ages and spectrums, including babies, toddlers, and older children, as well as those with sleep issues or special needs.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the battery compartment doesn’t close well after opening it once.
• The stuffing may not be enough in some cases, but it can be easily added.
• The product is slightly overpriced compared to similar products on the market.

This sensory toy is easy to use – simply pinch the “ON” button by hand, and the light up star will glow soothingly and change every few seconds while playing a soothing lullaby to calm your child. Made with high-quality super soft polyester, it is safe and durable, ensuring that it can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. The product is fully safety tested and complies with all USA safety regulations, including ASTM F963-17.

Overall, the LoveHugs Musical Star Plush Sensory Light Up Toy is a great option for parents looking for a sensory toy for their child. It can help soothe and calm your child, especially at bedtime, and is versatile enough to be used by children of all ages and spectrums.

Aullsaty Toddler Toys Talking Flash Cards

If you’re looking for an engaging and interactive way for your child to learn, the Aullsaty Toddler Toys Talking Flash Cards could be the perfect fit.

Pros

• The toy is designed to attract children’s interest with its cute cat card reader and includes 248 sight words covering 14 subjects.
• The combination of sound and images enhances children’s ability to recognize and interact with new things on the cards, making it a great learning opportunity for autistic children and those in speech therapy sessions.
• The toy is rechargeable and durable, made with high-quality double copper paper that is thicker and more durable than other flashcards.

Cons

• Some reviewers note that the cards could be a bit stronger, but as long as adults supervise handling, they work great.
• The toy is small, which makes it easy for travel, but it may not be the best fit for children who prefer larger toys.
• While the toy is suitable for children up to six years old, some reviewers note that it may be more appealing to younger children.

The Aullsaty Toddler Toys Talking Flash Cards are an excellent choice for parents looking for an engaging and interactive way for their children to learn. The toy’s Montessori-style learning approach, combined with its cute design and durable construction, make it a great gift for children of all ages.

Threeking RC Stunt Cars Remote Control Car Double-Sided Driving 360-degree Flips Rotating Car Toy, Green

If you are looking for a fun and exciting toy car for your child, the Threeking RC Stunt Cars Remote Control Car is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The car can tumble in place at 360 degrees and drive on double-sided, making it an exciting toy for kids to play with.
• The anti-interference feature allows multiple sets of toy cars to compete together without interfering with each other.
• The car is equipped with powerful electric motors and high-quality rubber tires for a unique driving experience.

Cons

• The battery of the remote is not included, so you will need to purchase it separately.
• The battery life lasts for only 30 minutes, which might not be enough for some kids.
• The car might not be suitable for very young children due to the complexity of the controls.

The Threeking RC Stunt Cars Remote Control Car is a great toy for kids who love to play with cars and enjoy performing stunts. The car’s ability to tumble in place and drive on double-sided makes it an exciting and unique toy that kids will love. Additionally, the anti-interference feature allows multiple sets of toy cars to compete together without interfering with each other, making it a great toy for playdates and parties.

However, it is important to note that the battery of the remote is not included, so you will need to purchase it separately. Additionally, the battery life lasts for only 30 minutes, which might not be enough for some kids. Finally, the car might not be suitable for very young children due to the complexity of the controls.

Overall, if you are looking for a fun and exciting toy car for your child, the Threeking RC Stunt Cars Remote Control Car is definitely worth considering.

QuTZ Toddler Toys

If you’re looking for a fun and educational toy for your child, the QuTZ Toddler Toys may be a great option.

Pros

• The toy includes a card reader and 112 double-sided flashcards covering 12 subjects, making it a great learning tool for children ages 2 and up.
• The card reader is easy to use, and the volume is adjustable. The toy is also rechargeable and comes with a portable bag for storage.
• It’s a great gift idea for birthdays, Christmas, or other holidays for boys and girls ages 2-6 years old.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the cards are flimsy and may not hold up well over time.
• The toy may not be suitable for children who are easily frustrated or have difficulty with fine motor skills.
• The package includes many cards that may not be relevant to every child, but they can be removed easily.

The QuTZ Toddler Toys are a great way to help children learn sight words, enhance cognitive ability, exercise hearing, and build vocabulary. Parents and teachers can use this toy to teach little ones learning to talk, expand vocabulary, and reinforce sight words in a much more interesting way. It’s also a great sensory toy for autistic children to develop speech capability. Overall, this toy is a great investment for parents who want to help their children learn and grow.

Terucle Remote Control Car

If you’re looking for an exciting and durable remote control car for your child, the Terucle Remote Control Car is a great option.

Pros

• The colorful strip lights add a fun touch to the car, and can change to 7 different colors.
• The car can do full 360-degree drifts, providing a thrilling racing experience.
• With two rechargeable batteries, the car has a long-lasting battery life for extended playtime.

Cons

• The car is recommended for ages 6 and up, so it may not be suitable for younger children.
• The car may require some practice to master all of the tricks and stunts.
• The car may not be as fast as some other remote control cars on the market.

The Terucle Remote Control Car is easy for kids to operate with its 2.4GHz frequency system, which allows multiple cars to race side by side without interference. The car is also built for double-sided racing, so it can flip over and race on both sides to pass obstacles easily.

This remote control car is a great gift idea for kids, promoting active play and enhancing hand-eye coordination. It is specially made for kids to ensure the material is safe and harmless.

Overall, the Terucle Remote Control Car is a fun and exciting toy that provides endless entertainment for kids and adults alike.

HONGID Star Projection Lamp

If you’re looking for a fun and educational toy for your autistic child, the HONGID Star Projection Lamp may be a good option.

Pros

• The lamp can project up to 15ft, covering a 250 square feet area, making it a great night light for your child’s room.
• The starry sky projection mode can create a calming atmosphere that can help your child fall asleep faster.
• The lamp’s quiet motor won’t disturb your child’s sleep.

Cons

• The lamp’s paper cover is a bit flimsy and may not hold up well with rough handling.
• The USB cable and batteries cannot be used simultaneously.
• Some customers received a different color than what they ordered.

This lamp is a great option for parents looking for a sensory toy that can also serve as a night light. The starry sky projection mode can create a calming atmosphere that can help your child fall asleep faster. However, the lamp’s paper cover is a bit flimsy and may not hold up well with rough handling. Additionally, the USB cable and batteries cannot be used simultaneously. Overall, the HONGID Star Projection Lamp is a fun and educational toy that can also serve as a functional night light.

Autism Sensory Toys for Kid Boys Year Old Ages 4 5 6 7 8 9 10(4PCS), Suction Robot Toy Pop Tube Fidget Toys Autistic Travel Toys Valentine’s Day Gift Easter Basket Stocking Stuffer for Kids Robot-4PC

If you’re looking for a fun and engaging toy for your child with autism, the CHESLICR Telescope Suction Cup Robot Toy is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The pop tube design and suction cups make it a unique and fun toy for kids to play with.
• It can help improve fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and creative thinking.
• The set comes with four different colors, making it even more exciting for kids.

Cons

• The suction cups may not work well on all surfaces and can fall off easily.
• The toy may not be durable enough to withstand rough play.
• Some customers have reported that the toy doesn’t always hold its shape well.

This toy is a great option for parents looking for a fun and engaging toy for their child with autism. The pop tube design and suction cups make it unique and exciting for kids to play with, while also helping to improve their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. However, it’s important to note that the suction cups may not work well on all surfaces and the toy may not be durable enough to withstand rough play.

If you decide to purchase this toy, it’s important to supervise your child while they play with it to ensure their safety. Overall, the CHESLICR Telescope Suction Cup Robot Toy is a great choice for parents looking for a fun and engaging toy for their child with autism.

hand2mind Sensory Fidget Tubes

If you’re looking for a toy that can help your child with autism to calm down and build social emotional skills, the hand2mind Sensory Fidget Tubes are an excellent choice.

Pros

• These sensory tubes are designed to help children soothe themselves with hands-on calming toys that provide cues and physical objects to deal with big emotions, without the strains that come with screens.
• Each set of sensory tubes comes with four different types of tubes, including a calming sensory glitter tube, a fantastic fidget tube, a magical reverse hourglass, and a soothing gravity spinner.
• These securely sealed, easy-to-grip bottles offer fascinating movement patterns and provide a quiet option for students who need help settling down.

Cons

• Some children may lose interest in these tubes after playing with them for a while.
• The tubes may not be suitable for children who prefer more active or stimulating toys.
• The price may be a bit high for some families.

The hand2mind Sensory Fidget Tubes are an excellent tool for helping children with autism to build social emotional skills and manage their emotions. The tubes are designed to provide a calming, hands-on experience that can help children to focus and relax. Each set comes with four different tubes, each of which offers a unique sensory experience. The tubes are securely sealed and easy to grip, making them a great choice for children of all ages.

One of the best things about these tubes is that they can be used in a variety of different settings. They are perfect for use in the classroom, at home, or in a therapy setting. They can be used as occupational therapy toys or play therapy toys, and they are great for helping children to manage anxiety and stress.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality toy that can help your child with autism to build social emotional skills and manage their emotions, the hand2mind Sensory Fidget Tubes are an excellent choice. They are well-designed, easy to use, and provide a great sensory experience for children of all ages.

Sensory Fidget Toys for Boys Age 4 5 6 7 8-12 Year Old, Autism Calming Down Car Travel Toys, Autistic Squishy Tube Stress Relief Robot Toy Airplane Travel Games for Kids,Toddler Easter Basket Stuffers Blue

If you’re looking for a sensory toy that can help calm down children with autism, ADHD, and ADD, the Sensory Fidget Toys for Boys Age 4 5 6 7 8-12 Year Old is a great option. It’s designed to provide visual and auditory stimulation to capture children’s attention, making it an effective tool to help calm them down.

Pros

• The robot design with blue liquid and colorful glitter is visually appealing and can help stimulate children’s sense of sight.
• The liquid inside makes a soft sound when moved, providing auditory stimulation that can help calm children down.
• The toy is made of sturdy, safe material that is easy to clean, making it a great option for classroom or travel use.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the beads and sequins inside the toy don’t move around as intended and can get stuck in the handle sides.
• The plastic is a little thick, which can make it difficult to squeeze for some children.
• The toy may not be suitable for children under 3 years old due to small parts.

This fidget toy is a great gift for any child, especially those with autism. The toy comes in a nice box, making it an ideal Easter basket filler, Christmas stocking stuffer, or birthday gift.

In summary, if you’re looking for a sensory toy that can help calm down children with autism, ADHD, and ADD, the Sensory Fidget Toys for Boys Age 4 5 6 7 8-12 Year Old is a great option. With its visually appealing robot design, soft sound, and sturdy material, it’s a great tool to help children calm down and focus.

Montessori Toys Busy Cube for Toddlers 1 2 3 Years Old, Sensory Busy Board Travel Toys for Autism ADHD Kids, Fidget Activity Cube for Baby 12+ Months, Easter Basket Stuffers for Toddler

If you’re looking for a toy that can keep your child engaged for hours while also helping them develop important skills, the Vilalatfan Montessori Toys Busy Cube is a great option.

Pros

• Includes a variety of different activities that can help develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination
• Designed specifically for kids who have autism, anxiety, ADD, ADHD, or are upset, making it a great option for parents looking for a calming toy
• Easy to take on the go, making it a great option for travel or for keeping your child entertained while running errands

Cons

• Some of the activities may be too challenging for younger children
• The key can easily fall off the chain, which can be frustrating for both children and parents
• The toy may not be as durable as some other options on the market

The Vilalatfan Montessori Toys Busy Cube is a great option for parents looking for a toy that can help their child develop important skills while also keeping them engaged and entertained. With a variety of different activities, including a fingertip gyroscope, anti-theft safety lock and key, spring bolt, switch, universal wheel, water tap, and rotating screw cap, this toy can help children develop their cognitive, attention, and learning abilities.

In addition to being a great learning tool, the Vilalatfan Montessori Toys Busy Cube is also designed specifically for kids who have autism, anxiety, ADD, ADHD, or are upset. The toy can effectively relieve anxiety and release pressure, making it a great option for parents looking for a calming toy for their child.

One of the best things about the Vilalatfan Montessori Toys Busy Cube is how easy it is to take on the go. Whether you’re traveling or just need to keep your child entertained while running errands, this toy is a great option. However, it’s worth noting that some of the activities may be too challenging for younger children, and the key can easily fall off the chain, which can be frustrating for both children and parents. Additionally, the toy may not be as durable as some other options on the market.

Overall, if you’re looking for a toy that can help your child develop important skills while also keeping them entertained and calm, the Vilalatfan Montessori Toys Busy Cube is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When shopping for toys for autistic kids, there are some key features to consider to ensure you choose the best product for your child’s needs. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

Sensory Input

Autistic children often have unique sensory needs and preferences. Some may seek out certain types of sensory input, while others may be overwhelmed by too much stimulation. Look for toys that provide a range of sensory experiences, such as tactile, auditory, and visual stimulation. Consider whether your child prefers soft or hard textures, bright or muted colors, and quiet or noisy toys.

Developmental Level

It’s important to choose toys that match your child’s developmental level. Some autistic children may have delays in certain areas, such as fine motor skills or language development. Look for toys that can help build these skills, such as puzzles, building blocks, or games that involve turn-taking and social interaction.

Safety

Safety is always a top priority when choosing toys for children. Make sure the toys you choose are age-appropriate and free from any potential hazards, such as small parts that could be swallowed or sharp edges. Look for toys that are made from non-toxic materials and have been tested for safety.

Durability

Autistic children may have a tendency to play with toys in a more intense or repetitive way than other children. Look for toys that are durable and can withstand rough play. Consider whether the toy is easy to clean and maintain, especially if your child has a tendency to put toys in their mouth or chew on them.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best toys for your autistic child that will provide them with hours of safe, stimulating, and enjoyable playtime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of sensory toys are beneficial for children with autism?

Sensory toys that provide tactile, visual, auditory, and proprioceptive input can be beneficial for children with autism. Some examples include fidget toys, weighted blankets, sensory balls, and chewable jewelry. These toys can help children with autism regulate their sensory systems and improve their focus and attention.

How can toys help with the development of fine motor skills in children on the autism spectrum?

Toys that require fine motor skills, such as building blocks, puzzles, and art supplies, can help children with autism develop their hand-eye coordination, dexterity, and finger strength. These skills are important for everyday activities such as writing, dressing, and eating.

What are some appropriate social skills toys for children with autism?

Social skills toys that encourage turn-taking, sharing, and communication can be beneficial for children with autism. Some examples include board games, role-playing toys, and puppets. These toys can help children with autism develop their social skills and improve their ability to interact with others.

Are there specific toys that encourage communication for non-verbal autistic children?

Toys that use visual and tactile cues, such as picture cards, communication boards, and sign language toys, can be beneficial for non-verbal autistic children. These toys can help children with autism communicate their needs and wants, and improve their language skills.

What should I consider when choosing a toy for my child with autism to help with their anxiety?

Toys that provide a sense of comfort and security, such as stuffed animals, stress balls, and sensory bins, can be beneficial for children with autism who experience anxiety. It is important to consider the child’s sensory preferences and needs when choosing a toy to help with anxiety.

Can you recommend educational toys that support learning for autistic children?

Educational toys that promote learning and skill-building, such as STEM toys, building sets, and educational games, can be beneficial for children with autism. These toys can help children with autism develop their cognitive, language, and social skills, while also providing a fun and engaging learning experience.