There are numerous types of autism toys designed for therapeutic purposes, including toys for developing coordination and social skills. Toys for children with special needs might include those which incorporate physical activities, such as ride-on toys and special balls. They are typically constructed for durability and to spark creativity and imaginative play. Educational toys are another widely recommended category. Interactive toys that combine basic reading, language and other learning skills may be in the form of flash cards and books.
Many autistic children require a selection of autism toys that can balance the aspect of visual creativity, mental stimulation and communication. This is why toys that allow the child to interact with another is a good choice. Mild autism or Asperger's Syndrome toys may not differ a great deal from ordinary toys, yet may be focused more on creativity, cognitive response and interactive activities.
Certain toys that are focused on the needs of autistic children may incorporate building and assembling. These take-apart toys are designed to stimulate imaginative playtime and fine-tune motor skills in the process. Some may be in the form of construction sets, and others may be shapes or mazes. Other popular types of autism toys might be multi-piece animals such as dinosaurs that require assembly and are geared for the special needs child.
Many children exhibiting autistic behavior may engage in repetitive activities which might promote an unhealthy situation. Chewing on objects is one such negative behavior seen in many autistic children. This has inspired autism toys such as 'chew sticks' that incorporate safe chewing alternatives. These sticks are created to be free of harmful chemicals and are designed for the autistic child who has a tendency to fidget. Since they are designed as a motor device that can be manipulated orally, adult supervision is recommended while utilized.
Developing social skills is an objective taken into consideration when creating concepts for autism toys. Certain toys that meet these needs for autistic children might be dolls that represent gender or cultural differences. This is aimed to bring awareness to children with autism as they engage in activities that simulate role playing. Other types of autism toys designed for role-play may include doctor and nurse kits. Dollhouses and farm sets, complete with family figures, are another type that may be recommended as autism toys.
Magnetic puzzles are often used in toys that are created for autism. Some of these may incorporate letters of the alphabet or numbers. Other types of magnetic puzzles may focus on colors. These puzzles are focused on educational needs; at the same time, they are designed to improve concentration that is often impaired in many autistic children.
There are other types of autism toys which do not typically fall into a category other than that of training tools. For example, such products might include those designed for helping a child to master potty training. Others may be geared at teaching the autistic child skills in how to dress himself or how to properly feed himself. These incorporate play activities with essential training tools needed for independence and productivity.