Five Gift Ideas for Autistic Toddlers and Preschoolers

As the mom of a four-year-old with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), I have discovered many wonderful toys that are fun and therapeutic. Toys that improve language development, sensory and motor regulation, develop core strength, muscle tone, and coordination. Toys that awaken my child’s inner drive, fostering greater engagement and interaction between the child and the leader.

Here are five of my favorite toys, ranging from $ 18 to $ 300. Most of them are eco-friendly, which I personally love. I am not speaking here as a medical expert, only as a mother. If you are a parent, relative, or friend of an autistic child, this list may make your Christmas shopping a little easier. I hope so!

Wheely Bug – If you haven’t seen these cute riders, you should check them out. I bought the cow for my kids last month and my son with ASD loves it! (Also available in bee and ladybug!) It really helps you with coordination and balance, while building your core. When he started to ride it, he was reeling. Now you can put your feet up and maneuver around every corner. It has helped you adjust to the movement that has bothered you in the past. In my opinion, this is one of the best gifts for a child with ASD. Be sure to buy the great Wheely Bug to get the most out of it. Environmentally friendly! $ 70

Breakfast Menu Game: These types of wooden toys are great for a variety of reasons. Many autistic children have trouble with food due to textures. By incorporating fictional food into playtime, it seems to make real mealtime easier. They can “prepare” the pretend food together and take turns “tasting” it. That way, your child will be more open to the idea of ​​trying different foods. Handling smaller toys, such as shaking the salt and pepper shakers, also improves fine motor skills. Plan Toys is a wonderful eco-friendly company and they make a great selection of amazing wooden toys. Environmentally friendly! $ 18

LIKEaBIKE – This is a unique eco bike without pedals! This is because this bike was designed to increase your child’s confidence and comfort when riding a bike, while developing their balance, core strength, etc. They start out slowly, usually by walking with it, and then as they get better they can go much faster. Obviously, this isn’t ideal for hills or steep surfaces, but on flat streets, on the driveway, or in the park, it’s a wonderful (and fun) toy. Our OT therapist has mentioned it several times. Environmentally friendly! $ 300

Haba Ball Track Master Builder Set – Many autistic kids love spinning and rolling toys. My son does a variety of activities in occupational therapy with marbles, which is why I love this toy from Haba. Your child can build the track and then watch the marbles spin through it. This is the big set and Haba also makes a smaller set for $ 43. This toy is perfect for improving and developing fine motor skills. It also triggers imagination and interaction. Environmentally friendly! $ 200

Hopscotch Mat – Another great toy for improving balance, motor skills, interaction, and organization of thought processes is this cute Hopscotch Mat from Alex. First you assemble it like a puzzle, then you play the game. This gives your child a great opportunity to practice jumping on one foot and then jumping on two feet. It is also a good game for children with ASD to play with their friends or siblings. $ 23

Learn more about my adventures with autism at MommyQ!