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Author: Tonia Chaffee

The Nine Best Fidget and Stim Toys on Amazon

The Nine Best Fidget and Stim Toys on Amazon

Do you find yourself sitting at a desk and you notice your foot going up and down? Do you find yourself chewing on your pencil while listening in a meeting? While you are thinking do you click your pin out and in? Do you take your pencil and roll in on your upper lip while you are thinking? Do you doodle on your notes or write on your desk? Then you hear the words… Stop Fidgeting! Pay attention! Does this mean you have Autism? No… but you might need a fidget toy!

 

According to The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), over 96% of kids with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) report having sensory issues, either being over-stimulated or under-stimulated by everyday sensory input. Every kid has their own way of trying to satisfy their sensory cravings. Bouncing, jumping, snapping, clapping, and hand flapping are all typical forms of self-stimulation or “stimming.”

Stimming is defined by oxford languages as “behaviour consisting of repetitive actions or movements of a type that may be displayed by people with developmental disorders, most typically autistic spectrum disorders.”

So what can you do to help you personally or satisfy your son or daughter’s need to stim? You may want to give stim toys a try.

What is a Stim Toy?

Stim toys (or fidget toys) are designed to stimulate a person’s sensory system. Stim toys come in all shapes and sizes, and each one is made to stimulate an individual sense. 

For example, chewable jewelry may be a great option if your child stims by putting things in their mouth. For those who stim with their hands, something like a stress ball or fidget spinner may provide the tactile stimulation they need.

How do Fidget Toys Help Autism?

Everyone handles sensory stimulation differently. For example, some people with autism (often known as sensory avoiders) are easily overstimulated by various sights, sounds, or textures. For these individuals, a fidget toy can help ground them, taking their attention away from their surroundings by focusing on the sensations that a fidget toy provides.

On the other end of the scale, sensory seekers (or people who underreact to sensory information) require far more stimuli to function normally. These kids often struggle to sit still, causing them to pace, fidget in their seats, or rock back and forth.

If your child is a sensory seeker, you may find a wiggle seat particularly helpful. These specialized cushions provide additional proprioceptive stimulation helping to satisfy their sensory needs without them even thinking about it.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all stim toy for every kid. It may take a few tries to find one that works, so be patient, and don’t be afraid to experiment. 

Our Top Picks for Stim Toys For Autism

Farm Beadeez

“Farm Beadeez” are the perfect autism fidget toys if you are looking to bring a little laughter into your child’s life. Each of the six different squishy farm animals is filled with hundreds of “jelly-like water beads” that provide “satisfying tactile feedback.”

When squeezed or stretched, the heads of these adorable animals expand in a comical way which is sure to put a smile on any child’s face.

Each “Farm Beadee” is made from durable, non-toxic (CPSIA inspected) silicone, ensuring that these stress balls will last for years to come.

15 Piece Fidget Toy Pack

If you are just diving into the world of stimming toys for autism, this 15 piece set of sensory toys is the perfect place to start. The five unique toys in this kit allow you and your child to experiment with audible, tactile, and visual stimuli without spending a fortune. 

The toys included in this pack are small and portable, so you can help your child develop creativity and fine motor skills just about anywhere.

Bouncyband Wiggle Wobble Chair Feet

The “Wiggle Wobble Chair Feet” are an innovative product for sensory seeking kids that provide the same sensory stimulation of a wiggle seat while retaining the feel of an ordinary chair.

These “Wiggle Wobble Chair Feet” easily snap onto existing chair legs, and because they have soft baseplates, you can use them on hardwood floors, tile, or carpet without worrying about causing damage.

Before you buy the “Wiggle Wobble chair feet,” it should be said that they can support a total weight of 120 lbs. So if your son or daughter is on the heavier side, a traditional wiggle cushion might be a better option.


Chew Necklaces for GirlsWhen they are overloaded (or underloaded) with sensory stimuli, kids with ASD often put small objects in their mouths. This can pose a serious choking hazard, so why not give them something safe to chew on. 

These fun-shaped stim chew necklaces are made from the highest quality, food-grade silicone, are completely waterproof, and are easy to clean with soap and water.

Since these necklaces are pieces of wearable jewelry, your daughter can take them anywhere and use them as needed.

JNATER Shark Tooth Chew Necklaces

If your son tends to regularly chew on his clothes or put things in his mouth, you might consider purchasing a set of these “JNATER Shark Tooth Chew Necklaces.”

Just like the necklaces for girls that we mentioned before, these stim-chew shark tooth necklaces are also made from BPA-free, food-grade silicone, so you won’t have to worry about your son getting sick from constantly having this necklace in his mouth.

Additionally, “JNATER Shark Tooth Chew Necklaces” feature a unique break-away clasp, so if the necklace ever gets caught or snagged on something, it will snap open to avoid injury and stress.

Little Sensory Cushion

The “Wiggle Seat Little Sensory Cushion” is another fantastic product from Bouncyband. This small-sized seat has a classic round wobble cushion design to provide proprioceptive stimulation to little sensory seekers between the ages of three and seven.

Thanks to its versatile design, this sensory cushion allows you to dial in the perfect level of sensory stimulation for your son or daughter. One side of the cushion is textured with small raised bumps, while the other side has larger rubber nubs for extra stimulation. Additionally, since this wiggle seat is inflatable, you’ll have the flexibility to put more air in or let it out to achieve optimal comfort.

TheraBand Stability Ball

Sometimes, traditional wiggle seats just don’t cut it for sensory seeking kids. Inflatable cushions provide some sensory stimuli, but since they are stationary, they don’t require very much balance to use.

Why not get rid of the chair altogether and replace it with a “TheraBand Stability Ball?” Occupational therapists often recommend inflatable exercise balls for kids with ASD to improve posture, balance, core strength, and overall stability.

To accommodate your child’s age, size, and height of your table, the “TheraBand Stability Ball” is available in four different sizes.

Step2 Dino Dig Sand & Water Table

If you have toddlers or younger autistic kids who are just beginning to explore tactile sensory stimulation, the “Dino Dig Sand & Water Table” by Step2 is an excellent stim toy to introduce textures while simultaneously helping them develop essential motor skills.

The “Dino Dig Sand & Water Table” has two sides, one for sand and one for water allowing your children to take included dinosaurs on adventures and dig for the bones molded into the table. 

When it comes time for clean-up, simply pull the non-leak drain plug to empty out the sand and water from the table.

Playz 5pc Kids Playhouse Fort 

Children with Autism are within themselves. This Playhouse will enable them to have the freedom of expressing themselves and sharing it with peers. They will be interacting with their peers and won’t even realize it. If you have the area, then have all the fun in the world and order the balls with it!

The Playz “Playhouse Fort” Is an absolute must for any parent looking to set up a playroom for their autistic son or daughter. Tunnels are to help strengthen children wrist, its apart of growing. “You have to crawl before you walk.” This old saying does hold some Marret.  Crawling is a part of the growth of our brains. Crawling helps both sides of the brain work together.  Ball-pits assist the children with balance and body control. Basketball hoops are great way to practice eye and hand coordination.

Playz truly goes above and beyond the safety standards with their “Playhouse Fort.” The company claims to be the only manufacturer to use “triple secured ends,” ensuring the metal coils within the tunnels will never come loose, injuring your child.

As a note, while the Playz “Playhouse Fort” can hold up to 1000 balls, they are not included. So you will need to purchase balls, like these ones, separately. 

Choosing the Right Stim Toys for Your Child With Autism

Hopefully, this list of our favorite sensory stim toys has given you some ideas for tools you can add to your autism toolbox. If you have experience with a stim toy that we didn’t mention on this list, we would love to hear about it! Leave a comment below and join our fantastic community of parents and caretakers of kids with autism disorders.

Benefits of PECS Boards for Children with Autism

Benefits of PECS Boards for Children with Autism

If you are a parent of a child with limited speech ability, your child’s doctor has probably suggested that you try the picture exchange communication system (PECS). This revolutionary teaching technique has become commonplace among educators and therapists. But what exactly is PECS? How do PECS boards work? And how can PECS benefit your child with autism? 

What is a PECS Board?

PECS is a trademarked learning process. However, “PECS boards” are a common term given to the tools used to implement PECS, such as visual charts and activity boards. You may have also heard of these tools referred to as visual communication boards, transition boards”, or “first-then boards.”

Basically, PECS boards are platforms that allow you to place images in front of your non-verbal son or daughter to help them learn to make decisions and communicate without using words.

These boards typically consist of two parts: the board itself (which is often magnetic or has a velcro surface) and detachable pictures depicting objects, feelings, and activities. 

If you’re looking to buy a PECS board on Amazon, check out our PECS boards review.

The Science Behind PECS

The picture exchange communication system (PECS) was developed in 1984 by Lori Frost and Dr. Andrew Bondy with the goal of creating an easy, efficient, and functional method of teaching autistic children with limited speech ability to communicate. 

PECS was first introduced to pre-schoolers at the Delaware Autistic Program and quickly found great success. Frost and Bondy discovered that using images as a form of communication not only taught kids with autism how to understand basic sentence structure but significantly reduced undesirable behavior in the process.

The science behind PECS is logical yet straightforward. Since nonverbal children cannot express their emotions, needs, and desires with words, they can quickly become frustrated and overwhelmed. PECS provides these kids with a way to convey their needs to their parents or teachers.

However, this rudimentary form of communicating is only the foundation of PECS. Picture exchange communication involves gradually working up to higher levels of learning and understanding. Here are the six phases of PECS provided by Pyramid Educational Consultants (a company founded by Frost and Bondy). While these phases are aimed at individuals using the official PECS program, the same principles apply to parents and educators looking to implement PECS independently.

PECS PHASE I: How to Communicate

Individuals learn to exchange single pictures for items or activities they really want.

PECS PHASE II: Distance and Persistence 

Still using single pictures, individuals learn to generalize this new skill by using it in different places, with different people and across distances. They are also taught to be more persistent communicators.

PECS PHASE III: Picture Discrimination 

Individuals learn to select from two or more pictures to ask for their favorite things. These are placed in a PECS Communication Book—a ringed binder with self-adhesive hook fastener strips where pictures are stored and easily removed for communication.

PECS PHASE IV: Sentence Structure

Individuals learn to construct simple sentences on a detachable Sentence Strip using an “I want” picture followed by a picture of the item being requested.

ADDITIONAL PHASE: Attributes and Language Expansion

Individuals learn to expand their sentences by adding adjectives, verbs and prepositions.

PECS PHASE V: Answering Questions 

Individuals learn to use PECS to answer questions such as “What do you want?”

PECS PHASE VI: Commenting 

Individuals are taught to comment in response to questions such as, “What do you see?”, “What do you hear?” and “What is it?” They learn to make up sentences starting with “I see”, “I hear”, “I feel”, “It is a”, etc.

How can a PECS Board Benefit your Child with Autism?

Improve Communication and Understanding

Non-verbal kids have it rough. Speech is one of the defining characteristics that makes us human, so not having the ability to communicate with words presents a myriad of challenges. Fortunately, PECS boards provide an alternate form of communication. 

As your child learns to associate pictures with emotions, feelings, and desires, they will simultaneously develop comprehension and problem-solving abilities that open the door to many other benefits. 

Reduce Your Child’s Stress and Anxiety

As young children begin to grow and gain more independence, they crave the ability to express themselves. However, for a non-verbal kid on the spectrum, not being able to explain that they are hungry or thirsty can be frustrating or even infuriating, causing them to cry, throw a tantrum, or lash out in some other way. A PECS board can give them an outlet to describe their desires and emotions before they spiral out of control.

Improved social interaction

Inevitably, At some point, you will be away from your son or daughter. Perhaps they are visiting a relative, or they have to go to school. Regardless of the reason, it’s crucial that your child be able to communicate with others, even if it is only to a limited degree. 

A portable PECS board or book can help your child take the communication skills they have learned anywhere they go, allowing them to describe exactly what they need to others.

Tips for Introducing and Using a PECS Board with Your Child

Because PECS follows a simple six-step process, it’s safe to assume that introducing a PECS board to your child would be easy, right? Well, unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Every child is different, and while some may welcome the idea of a new way to express themselves, others may be hesitant.

It’s important to remember that you are learning along with your son or daughter, so while it may initially it may be frustrating for you if they don’t seem to be getting it right away, be patient. With time and cooperation, the two of you will learn how to utilize this excellent teaching method. Here are a few tips and tricks that can help you introduce PECS to your child and help both of you get the most out of the learning experience.

Introduce Pecs Using Their Favorite Things

Pyramid education consultants suggest introducing PECS by having at least three objects (referred to as reinforcers) on hand that your child really wants. These items might include their favorite toy, snack, or drink. Using items that your son or daughter is familiar with will accelerate the learning process by making it more welcoming and enjoyable.

After you have chosen your items, find or create images that represent each object. It’s important that each picture is labeled so any other family members can maintain consistency when using the PECS board.

Take Detailed Notes

Monitoring your child’s progress is a crucial part of the picture exchange communication system. You may find it helpful to keep a journal where you can write down any significant milestones or specific things you have noticed about your child’s reaction to visual communication learning. Here are a few questions that you can keep in mind when you are making your notes.

  • Which pictures and objects does my child respond well to?
  • Is my son or daughter communicating what they feel and want more quickly than before?
  • Is my child’s mood improving?
  • How often is my child having temper tantrums? 

Attend a PECS workshop

Since its development in the mid 80’s PECS has helped thousands of non-verbal children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) learn to communicate effectively with their families and friends. Because of the method’s success, PECS has exploded in popularity, becoming a standard form of learning in homes and classrooms. 

With so many people interested in PECS, Lori Frost, Dr. Andrew Bondy, and the other researchers at Pyramid Educational Consultants have organized a program to teach the picture exchange communication system to the country. The organization offers in-person and online workshops to teach parents and educators how Pecs works and how it can be tailored to your child’s individual needs. So regardless of which PECS phase your child is on, you can learn a lot from a training workshop. 

Join the Normal Life Community

PECS boards are a fantastic teaching tool that can give a level of normality to the life of your non-verbal son or daughter. If you’ve had a positive experience using PECS boards or have any helpful suggestions on getting started using them, we’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below and join our growing community of parents and caretakers of kids with autism disorders.

The Best Pecs Boards for Children With Autism

The Best Pecs Boards for Children With Autism

Children with autism may have a difficult time communicating with those around them. Those that are non-verbal rely on several tools to help them effectively communicate and learn. Thankfully such tools are abundant. 

One such system that has been put into place is PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System). While PECS was initially developed for pre-school-aged children, children and adults of all ages have benefited from this method. 

Visual communication boards, token boards, first-then boards, and many other tools have come from this method of communication. They are both exciting and essential tools parents and teachers introduce to their children. But how can they help your family?

What Are PECS Boards? 

PECS boards use a series of pictures, symbols, or word prompts to help the user communicate with parents, teachers, siblings, peers, and others. The main goal when using any type of visual communication board is to teach functional communication. 

Functional communication is what allows an individual to express themselves freely. But communication doesn’t just involve speech. While speech is an obvious form of communication, there are extensive ways that we as humans and families communicate. Sign language, gestures, pictures, and assistive devices are just a few examples.

It’s vital to introduce different forms of communication to non-verbal kids with autism. For many, PECS boards are their primary form of communication. It allows these children to express their emotions, needs, wants, and concerns. 

The Different Uses of a PECS Board

While PECS boards principally are communication tools, they serve several purposes. So let’s break it up into some categories outside of communication:

  • Learning tool. In a classroom setting, visual communication boards can serve the entire class or one on one with a single pupil. These boards can be used to teach a specific skill or idea. For example, sequence cards often teach the order of events which supports problem-solving skills. After a child has learned a new skill, they can practice and improve their skills with the help of visual communication boards. 
  • Social interactions. Some children with autism have a difficult time socializing with their peers or family members. As a result, they may need to be encouraged or taught how to do so. For example, those who have difficulty understanding social cues can benefit from a board that helps them do just that. 
  • Entertainment. Some visual communication boards are also categorized under learning toys. This is because they are a fun and effective way to engage your child, keep them busy, and teach them something new or reinforce learned skills. Others are set up as an activity or game that your child can play by themselves during quiet play or with others as a social game. 
  • Schedule. Many parents initiate visual schedules to help their children understand the events in their day or get accustomed to a specific routine. For example, if the child has therapy sessions, doctor appointments, or set times to take medication, pictured schedules help prepare them for these tasks. Check out our list below for our favorite magnetic visual schedule! It’s especially ideal for rotating or changing plans. If you currently have a rewards system in place, consider swapping it out with a token board. Token boards help your child visualize their progress and goals and encourage them to stay on task by rewarding them.
  • Encouraging Speech. Although it may seem like it could inhibit speech, research has shown that these tools encourage speech by reinforcing conversation behaviors and strategies. It also helps to widen out a child’s vocabulary and become more aware of language in general.

Parents and children can utilize the principle behind PECS boards in different forms, including the following:

  • Books
  • Cards
  • Posters
  • Electronic
  • Magnets

Any of these options can help to serve several purposes, as we outlined above. Therefore, having a variety of options is beneficial. 

For one, it makes transporting easy. In addition, smaller options allow for on-the-go learning and communication. Educators also use different forms, such as posters, to teach a collective group of students. 

The variety is what makes this method truly special and valuable for everyone. 

The Best PECS Boards For Children With Autism

There is a wide range of reasons why you might be looking for a PECS board for your child with autism. Whether for education, communication, or planning purposes, we want to help you find the best option to meet your specific set of needs! Below are a few of our favorites that assist in a number of ways.

 Boardmaker Communication Book

Boardmaker’s communication book helps children learn action words, feelings, and people, and more. The book has ten dividers to best categorize each laminated card. In addition, each card comes with velcro on the back to reorganize the set as you and your child see fit. 

As the child communicates through pointing and showing you the cards, they can also learn ASL quickly as each card has a unique feature on the bottom right-hand side that shows the corresponding ASL symbol. 

SchKIDules Visual Schedule For Kids

Just like adults, kids thrive on schedules and routines. Becoming aware of their routine can help them understand what they need to do next and be compliable. 

Adding a schedule to your fridge that’s eye level with your child will boost their independence. Any upcoming appointments won’t be a surprise, and the layout of events prepares the child for what the day holds. 

SchKIDules Visual Schedule includes 132 activity magnets and 21 heading magnets so that you can separate activities into various settings. For example, the visual schedule can be made into a weekly calendar, daily schedule, or chore priority chart. In addition, because there are colorful photos on each magnet, kids of any age or reading level can manage this visual schedule. 

PECS Visual Strategies Tool Kit


PECS can be used as a reward system for students. It provides them with a visual reminder to stay on task while simultaneously teaching patience and the importance of waiting for and earning rewards.

For example, a parent might use this kit while their child is completing their homework. If the child has a hard time focusing on their assignment in front of them, then visual reminders can help them. For added encouragement, they have the opportunity to ask for help, take a break, and achieve rewards through the icons included in the set. 

PECS Tool Kit comes with instructions to make sure you are getting the most benefit from the set.

Spark Cards Sequence Cards Jr


Spark Innovations created a Jr set of sequence cards that work best for younger children. This box includes eight-story sets that speech therapists and educators have found beneficial in improving language skills, sentence structure, and word relation. 

With each story and card, critical thinking and problem-solving can be encouraged by prompting who, what, where, when, how, and why. Additionally, each story set contains six bright and illustrated cards to promote focus. 

SANTSUN Daily Conversation Starters Cards

SANTSUN’s unique conversation starters were created with both parents and children in mind. Half of the set’s sentences are to be used by the parents, and the other half is to be used by the child. 

Each card has a series of words and an image to help capture interest and boost memory. Your child can use the cards to start conversations, make requests, or learn new sentences and allow for the caregiver’s response.

Thought-Spot The Shoulds and Should Nots


The Shoulds and Should Nots book and cards help children with autism develop social and communication skills. They go through various daily situations that your child will front and identify the appropriate and inappropriate ways to respond during these situations. For example, this book covers a few situations such as proper behavior in the classroom, showing empathy, and eating correctly.

AbleNet QuickTalker FT 23


Last but not least is AbleNet’s QuickTalker as our #1 pick! This electronic communication board utilizes recorded voices as a method of communication. It’s customizable to whatever words you want to record. Alongside each prompt, you can add a visual symbol for better comprehension. Electronic tools, like the QuickTalker, have been a practical device for non-verbal children with autism. 

Choosing One For Your Child

It will be easier to find a board after identifying the purpose a PECS board will serve for your child. You might decide on stocking up and using several boards around the house, each with a specific role. 

If you and your child have the opportunity to try out one of these products, let us know! We would love to hear what you both thought of PECS. 

The Benefits of Wobble Cushions

The Benefits of Wobble Cushions

When used correctly, a sensory seat for autism can help improve a child’s concentration and overall learning. But there are many options on the market. One popular choice is the wobble cushion. What is it, and how do you know if it’s right for your child? 

What is a Wobble Cushion? 

A wobble cushion is sometimes referred to as an instability cushion or a disc cushion. It is also known as a wiggle cushion or wiggle seat.

It is either a round inflatable cushion averaging thirteen inches in diameter or an inflated wedge-shaped cushion. 

Wobble cushions usually have raised dimples on at least one side, while others have different sizes of dimples on both sides. They can be used on the floor or in a chair. 

Why Use a Wobble Cushion?

Wobble cushions have many benefits and purposes. All children can benefit from using a wobble cushion both at home and in school. However, wobble cushions are especially beneficial for sensory-seeking toddlers and children with autism or ADHD. 

The Benefits of Wobble Cushions

  • Improves posture. Wobble or wiggle cushions promote good posture both when sitting on the floor or in a chair. Good posture helps children concentrate better on the task at hand instead of constantly repositioning to get more comfortable. Improving concentration and learning are especially important for children with ADHD and those on the autism spectrum. 
  • Engages the core. Because of the instability of wiggle seats, the user must keep their core and back engaged even while sitting. This strengthens their muscles, and because it’s done in an aligned position, it tones muscles without risking injuries. 
  • Helps sensory-seeking kids focus. The wobbly effect of these cushions forces children to focus on how they sit, so the energy that usually goes into fidgeting is directed at staying upright. They can then focus on the project in front of them. Additionally, the raised dimples provide further sensory stimulation. Studies show that sensory stimulation improves concentration while promoting relaxation in many children. 
  • Prevent chair-related accidents. Children who have trouble concentrating tend to lean back in their chair, which damages the chair and can be dangerous if the back legs slips and the child falls. Wobble cushions allow the child to feel that back and forth rocking or leaning motion without having to worry about an injury or damage to your furniture. 
  • Replaces therapy balls. While therapy balls have their place, they aren’t ideal for every child. Some children may be more tempted to play on the ball than use it as a seat. Additionally, their large size makes it challenging to use them at a desk or have multiple balls in one classroom. You also can’t adjust the size of a therapy ball, so a desk or table may be too high or too low to use comfortably. A wobble cushion gives your child the unsteady, constant movement of a therapy ball, but it can be used on any chair at any height of table. They are also much more portable and can be moved easily from room to room or even carried discreetly in a backpack or shoulder bag. 
  • Calms stress and anxiety. Children can focus nervous or anxious energy on stabilizing their position rather than turning to other coping strategies such as hair pulling or nail-biting. 

How to Use a Wobble Cushion Correctly

Wobble cushions should be used and treated as all exercise equipment or classroom tools. If misused, they could be damaged or even lead to an injury. If you choose to use a wobble cushion, please keep the following in mind. 

  • Do not use the cushion at all times. Because a wobble cushion engages your core and back muscles, it should be viewed as a form of exercise. Manufacturers recommend using it only for about 30 minutes at most before taking a break. 
  • Make sure that the child’s feet can reach the floor when using the wobble cushion on a chair. If the chair is too high, it will only be uncomfortable and even more distracting to the child. 
  • Ensure your child sits directly on the cushion and not on the edge of the chair.
  • Never combine the wobble cushion with other sensory devices such as a weighted vest or blanket. It is already somewhat challenging to balance on a wiggle cushion, and the extra weight could make it even more difficult to use safely. 
  • Let your child try out both sides of the cushion to decide what level of sensory stimulation makes them most comfortable. Some cushions come with a smooth side, while others come with two intensity levels of sensory dimples. Certain children may prefer the extra raised dimples, while others might find them uncomfortable. 
  • Try out the wobble cushion yourself. Your child will be more likely to try something new if you’re willing to give it a go first. You’ll also better understand how the cushion adjusts posture and affects concentration if you’ve experienced it yourself. 
  • Use the wobble cushion for creative strength and balancing-building exercises. Carefully standing on the wobble cushion is fun to build muscle tone, improve balance, and practice concentration. 
  • Don’t use the wobble cushion on a couch or sofa. The wobble cushion will sink into soft seating, making slouching inevitable. 

How to Choose the Right Wobble Cushion

Look for a wobble cushion that is labeled for children. Adult-size cushions are often larger and could be uncomfortable for your child. If you’re looking for a comprehensive list of the best wobble cushions, feel free to follow the link to Normal Life’s list.

You will also want to consider the overall shape of the cushion. Some inflate to more rounded shapes while others stay flatter. The flat cushion is much more stable while at the same time requiring core engagement. 

Aesthetics also play a role in whether or not the wobble cushion is successful. If possible, let your child choose the color of their wobble cushion. They’ll be more excited to use it and feel more involved in the decision. Some wobble cushions even come with cloth covers with fun prints.

Finally, choosing a wiggle seat with both a smoother side and a textured side puts your child in control of their seating and comfort. 

A wobble cushion is an excellent tool for sensory-seeking kids with autism or ADHD. They improve concentration, build muscle, and encourage balance in children and adults alike. Best of all, they are relatively affordable, portable, and have a variety of uses. If you haven’t already, it’s time to add a wobble cushion to your sensory tool kit. 

​​The Best TV Shows and Movies for Children With Autism

​​The Best TV Shows and Movies for Children With Autism

Learning how to use the media to benefit your autistic child is an ongoing process. The decision on what entertainment to expose him to is even more important when dealing with autism. 

Entertainment is fraught with negative impressions that can damage a child’s ability to establish his own identity. While children need it to get a realistic view of the world around them and how they fit into that mold, parents do well to proceed with caution. They need to see models of themselves in the imaginary world they are entering.

The same is true for any autistic child. Observing others with the same challenges face the world can be a genuinely uplifting experience. So, choices for TV shows and movies can be very empowering for your child. Below are just a few suggestions to help your special needs child find his place in the world.

Should Children With Autism Watch TV?

Before you can choose the best entertainment for your autistic child, it helps to know how to use this form of entertainment to your advantage. 

Yes, autistic children indeed require extensive therapeutic interactions. It is not uncommon for them to have hours of therapy daily. This highly disciplined form of treatment is one of the main reasons parents feel that TV may not be the best choice for their children. 

While TV and movies are not interactive, they can still help a child with autism.

  • They are very effective teaching tools. After watching the same movie over and over again, they can pick up on proper emotional responses, learn new skills, and even learn basic life skills like tying their shoes, brushing their teeth, and combing their hair.
  • They discover the fundamentals of connecting with others and how to make friends.
  • They adopt a unique language that you can use to communicate better with them.
  • They expose them to a whole new world and prepare them to explore.
  • They help them to get out of their heads and engage in the real world.
  • They can generate new ideas that they can use again in their therapy sessions.

Because autistic children learn better through visual and auditory means, watching TV shows and movies can help them build a solid knowledge base that they can use in real life. So, while parents must carefully choose what is on the screen, it can make a significant difference in providing some of the necessary tools needed for them to adapt to real-life situations.

What Makes an Autism-Friendly Movie?

So, how do you choose what is right for your child to watch? You don’t want to plop them down in front of the television and expect miracles to happen. It is essential to exercise great care in what your child is exposed to. Here are a few things you should keep in mind while deciding.

  • Make sure that parental controls are always engaged. This practice will keep your child from accidentally viewing something you don’t want him to see.
  • Always preview any show before you let your child watch.
  • Watch together so you can pause at specific points to ask questions and engage your child so they can get a better grasp of what he needs to learn.
  • If he becomes attached to a single show and wants to watch it repeatedly, use that show to reward him for demonstrating positive behavior.
  • Look for ways you can extend his interests from the show into the real world.
  • Make your own videos that model the behaviors you want him to emulate.

No hard and fast rule tells you which movie is good or bad. It is not just that your child has autism but also other factors you must consider when making a choice. When you are looking at options, try to focus on key factors like:

  • Where he falls on the spectrum
  • His age
  • Learning opportunities
  • How much stimulation he can take
  • Will it have a calming effect

There are probably more factors that you can also consider when making your choice. Just like with all other children, no two will be alike, even those with autism. You know your child better than anyone, so consider your personal knowledge when deciding if a TV show or movie will work best in your situation.

There is always an escape plan if you find your choices are a good match. If you subscribe to a streaming service like Disney or Netflix, you can simply stop the stream and make another selection. It’s not like the olden days when your child had to watch whatever was on the screen at the time.

Movies For Autistic Children

When it comes to choosing movies, animation is a popular choice. Not only will you find selections that are not controversial, but there are lots of storylines that can provide real education opportunities in the experience.

Animated movies for an autistic child can be very enlightening. The benefits of a sensory-friendly movie show are evident at every turn.

  • It gives them a way to observe social skills in non-threatening or confusing ways.
  • Even the central figures, while they may be animals or other beings found in nature, exaggerate behaviors they may need to learn, so the world suddenly is not so confusing.
  • Seeing repeated behaviors in several situations helps them to hone in on a specific skill set and gives them cues on how to use it.

Some live-action movies can offer the same general benefits for the autistic child that can process it. Here are just a few examples of how they can help.

Finding Nemo: This movie is appropriate for all ages. The story of a clownfish braving the massive sea for his son can strike a chord with anyone. Your autistic child will likely pick up on how he has to adapt to various situations, learn to be flexible, and find ways to work with others while pursuing his goal.

Lilo and Stitch: This show is ideal for children of all ages. Lila, a little Hawaiian girl, makes friends with an alien and makes him her pet. Together, they go through many experiences that require them to meet specific challenges. The whole experience is friendly, engaging, and colorful.

Back to the Future: The young and adventurous Marty is the main character searching for his own adventure in this movie. However, most autistic children will focus on the older Doc Brown. The scientist with eccentric mannerisms doesn’t know how to fit in with society. He becomes successful with his invention of the Time Machine, which sends them both on all sorts of wild and crazy adventures.

TV Shows

The same guidelines that we use for choosing movies can also be applied in TV shows. Choose those where you think your child will be able to relate to some of the characters in a way that may help them to rid themselves of their inhibitions. Something that shows that they can be empowered and become independent without always conforming to the norm.

Boss Baby: This Netflix series places the viewer in a computer-generated cartoon series. It is recommended for children ages five and up. It is full of slapstick comedy as the characters diligently work out the troubles they face while navigating everyday life. This show is perfect because the episodes are all short, so you won’t have to worry about your child not being able to focus for the duration of each episode.

A little note on Boss Baby, though, is that my kids at home started to think they were “the boss” around the house and tried bossing me around! In all honesty, it wasn’t much of a problem, but it’s something to watch out for!

The Magic School Bus Rides Again: This series features Ms. Frizzle as she hands the reins of the bus over to her sister Fiona. Through their adventures, children learn a lot about science and social behaviors in all sorts of situations.

Peppa Pig: Almost every parent young and old has heard about Peppa Pig! Peppa Pig and her family are a polite bunch that teach children manners and other daily living skills such as sharing. Warning: if your kids watch this too much, they might just end up developing a British accent!

Best Wiggle Seats For Sensory Seeking Kids

Best Wiggle Seats For Sensory Seeking Kids

What is Sensory Seeking?

The human brain has an important job to do. For all 24 hours in a day, the brain is constantly receiving and processing information from senses. Usually, this is a subconscious process that most of us don’t even have to think about. However, for kids with sensory processing disorders (SPD’s), the brain struggles to manage the constant flow of sensory input.

Generally, sensory processing disorders are divided into two categories: sensory avoiding and sensory seeking.

For sensory avoiders, the brain is overstimulated by the influx of sensory information, causing a child to become overwhelmed, stressed or anxious easily.

On the other hand, sensory seekers underreact to sensory input and require far more stimuli to function normally. As a result, kids who are are sensory seekers tend to have difficulty remaining still. When sitting, they often shift, reposition, fidget, or repeatedly get up in an effort to find the sensory stimuli that their brain needs to focus and function. 

As if processing the five primary senses of sight, smell, taste, touch, and hearing wasn’t enough, kids with Autism, ADHD, and sensory issues can be extremely sensitive to two other senses. Spatial awareness and proprioception.

  • Spatial awareness deals with knowing where a child is in a given space. To orient themselves in a room or space, sensory seeking children will sometimes twist their bodies or rock back in forth.

 

  • Proprioception is the body’s ability to sense balance and movement. Proprioceptive insensitivity is the reason sensory seekers have a hard time staying still. In order to get more proprioceptive stimuli, they need to move and change positions constantly.

Scientists and Autism experts have spent countless hours of research, developing new methods and devices to help sensory seekers achieve better levels of attention and focus. One product that has proven especially helpful for many sensory seeking children is the wiggle seat.

What is a Wiggle Seat?

Wiggle seats, also known as wobble cushions, fidget chairs, and balance disks, come in many different styles. But, essentially, they all are designed to accomplish the same goal: To provide an additional level of sensory and proprioceptive stimulation that ordinary chairs don’t offer. 

Some wiggle seats come in the form of inflatable cushions that can be placed on chairs, stools, on the floor, or in the car. Others are purpose-built chairs, best suited for desk or table use. Regardless of their design, these simple but powerful products create an uneven surface for your child to sit on, requiring more effort into balancing, and in turn, helping to satisfy their proprioceptive needs. Additionally, most wiggle seats are textured with bumps and patterns to maximize physical sensations to their skin.

How to Introduce a Wiggle Seat to your Child

Introduce new wobble seats in small increments. Some kids are hesitant to try new things and may not be too keen on the idea of sitting on this strange new object. Instead of insisting that they use their new wobble cushion every time they sit down, try to help them sit on it for 20 or 30 minutes at a time. In most cases, kids quickly become accustomed to wobble seats and prefer sitting with them than without them.

Show them how to use it. If your son or daughter is especially resistant to the idea of using a wiggle seat, you may want to try setting the example for them. When you are together with your child, perhaps at a meal, show them that you enjoy sitting on the wiggle cushion. Your example may give them the confidence they need to give it a try for themselves.

Use wiggle seats in different locations. One of the best features of wobble cushions is that they are portable, giving you and your child the freedom to use them in various places and during different activities. You may find that your son or daughter is more likely to use a wobble cushion in one situation over another, so don’t be afraid to experiment. Here are a few places to introduce a wiggle cushion:

  • At the dinner table
  • On the floor
  • In the car (if your child doesn’t use a booster seat)
  • When doing homework

Choosing the Right Wiggle Seat for your Child

While most wiggle seats and cushions share the same basic design principle, there are still many different styles to choose from. Here are our top picks for the best wiggle seats on Amazon. So, let’s get into finding the best wiggle seats for sensory seeking kids.

Wiggle Seat by Tiny Octopus

The “Wiggle Seat” by Tiny Octopus uses the classic, tried and true wobble cushion design to bring proprioceptive stimulation anywhere your child needs it.

Seat” features a unique double-sided texture design, offering two levels of sensory stimulation. One side has small raised bumps, and the other side has large rubber nubs to provide maximum stimuli to your son or daughter.

Included with the “wiggle seat in a portable air pump, making this wobble cushion easy to throw in a backpack and bring it along wherever you and your child go.

Gaiam Kids Stay-N-Play Children’s Balance Ball

Due to their lack of a solid based, we typically advise parents to stay away from exercise or balance balls. While they may seem like the perfect seating solution for sensory seeking kids, These balls can be very dangerous. Far too easily, they can roll right out from under a child, causing severe injury. For overactive children who love to fidget, they are a recipe for disaster.

However, the “Stay-N-Play Children’s Balance Ball” by Gaiam Kids is different. Unlike traditional balance balls, this one features five small flexible legs that keep the ball firmly in place while your child sits on it, so you’ll never have to worry about this chair flying out from under your son or daughter.

The “Stay-N-Play Children’s Balance Ball” comes in two different sizes to accommodate both younger and older children and is available in a variety of different fun designs and colors.

Bouncyband Butterfly Wiggle Seat

If your child is skeptical about using a wobble cushion, the butterfly Wiggle Seat from Bouncyband may be just what they need to give it a try. This cushion brings all of the benefits of a traditional wobble seat with a fun and welcoming butterfly shape.

Bouncyband Wiggle Wobble chair feet

The “Wiggle Wobble chair feet” are another ingenious product from Bouncyband. These removable feet are a great middle-ground for sensory seeking kids who prefer the feel of a normal chair but could still benefit from the sensory stimulation of a wiggle seat. 

The “Wiggle Wobble chair feet” easily snap onto existing chair legs and, thanks to their soft baseplates, can be used on tile, carpet, or hardwood floors without causing any damage.

Before purchasing the “Wiggle Wobble chair feet,” It’s important to note that they can support the weight of 120 pounds, so if your child is older or on the heavier side, you may want to consider another wiggle seat option.

CanDo Sitting Wedge Active Seat Wobble Cushion

The CanDo “Sitting Wedge Active Seat Wobble Cushion” is our top pick for sensory seekers who love sitting on the floor. This cushions wedge shape not only gives your child the added sensory stimuli that they need but also helps to keep their spine aligned, improving posture and balance. Additionally, since this cushion is made of soft foam, you never have to worry about it deflating or being popped by your child.

OUTREE Kids Pod Swing Seat

The “OUTREE Kids Pod Swing Seat” technically isn’t a wobble cushion. Still, we felt it deserves an honorable mention on this list due to its enclosure design and unique ability to move. For kids with spatial awareness sensitivity issues, the “OUTREE Kids Pod Swing Seat” is the perfect chair. It’s kind of like a wiggle seat, on a swing, inside of a fort.

Just like with a traditional wobble seat, the included inflatable cushion gives your son or daughter the ability to balance and bounce, but since the seat is suspended from the ceiling, there is added swinging motion. On top of that, the pod design creates a calming environment for autistic kids who struggle to feel safe and secure in large spaces. 

Help your Child Concentrate with a Wiggle Seat

As a parent of a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder, you’ll do anything to make life a little easier and more comfortable for your son or daughter. If your little one happens to be a sensory seeker, a wiggle seat may be the one thing missing from your autism toolbox to help put your restless child at ease.

If you’ve never experimented with a wiggle seat before, why not give it a try? You may be surprised at just how much better your child is able to concentrate and remain still when sitting on a wobble cushion. 

If you’ve had success with a specific Wiggle seat or cushion, please tell us about it! Leave a comment below and join our community of awesome parents, teachers, and caretakers of kids with Autism. 

The Best Pets for Autistic Children

The Best Pets for Autistic Children

Being a parent of an autistic child can be like walking a tightrope. Every decision you make has the potential to carry a catastrophic result. Parents have to choose wisely so their children will get the best chance at having a quality of life that will give them the best future.

So, unlike other children, when your autistic child asks for a pet, there are many things to think about. No doubt, many questions start running through your mind.

  • Should I get him a pet?
  • How will he handle the responsibility?
  • What pet will be able to live with his uniqueness?
  • How can I help him make the adjustments?
  • What is the best pet for an autistic child?

There are a few things that you must consider before making your choice. Where your child lies on the autism spectrum, his unique personality, and how well he interacts with others in his immediate environment.

Before You Make a Decision

There is no one-size-fits-all answer here. Like everyone else in the world, the best pet for an autistic child is not the same for everyone. Spend some time observing your child around other people’s pets. Take your time and introduce him to several different types of animals and notice his behavior.

If your child has aggressive tendencies when around animals (pulling tails, grabbing hair, squeezing too hard), you might not want to start him off with a young or small animal like gerbils, hamsters, or small puppies. These will probably not survive the connection for very long. 

Avoid getting young animals that lack the maturity to handle your child’s impulses. Instead, consider getting an older puppy or even an adult dog or cat. Younger animals do not naturally bite or scratch, but if you’re too rough with them from the start, they may feel like it is their only way to defend themselves, and chances are your child will be the first victim.

As a rule, rabbits are very gentle but intelligent enough to take mild aggressive behaviors for short periods. You might even want to consider introducing your child to pets a little at a time. Start with getting an aquarium and a few fish. For some autistic children, these can be very relaxing and allow the child to adjust to new responsibilities without overwhelming them. It may be just the ticket for your household.

For Dog Lovers

There is no doubt that one of the most popular pets in any household is dogs. These are naturally the go-to pet for many reasons, including the powerful bond they can develop with their owners and the added security level they can provide. What parent doesn’t think of their child’s safety when it comes to choosing a pet.

However, not all dog breeds will respond in the same way to your autistic child. Some breeds are much more capable of adapting to unique behaviors than others. After considering all your options for good pets for an autistic child, you decide to go with a dog; here is a list of good breeds to choose from.

 

  • Golden Retriever: This breed makes the top of our list for several reasons. Their personality is usually very outgoing and friendly, and they have an inherent need to please you. They are not only patient and loving, but their manner is quite gentle. Because of this unique combination of personality traits, they are easy to train, making them a perfect companion for a child with autism.

 

  • Saint Bernard: If your child does demonstrate even mild aggressive tendencies, you want to get a dog that can take the abuse in stride, and there is none better than a Saint Bernard. Despite their enormous size, these dogs are surprisingly gentle. They tend to be stubborn at times but will usually relent when it is for the welfare of their owner. This breed is so loyal that they have often been used as therapy dogs for all sorts of special needs children. If your autistic child is rough with dogs, this could be the ideal solution.

 

  • Labradoodle: This breed is an excellent cross between a Labrador, which is gentle by nature, and a poodle. Because they don’t shed like many other dogs, there is less clean-up for you. While this may not be a factor for your autistic child, it is undoubtedly a plus for most households. They are very playful and can be found in a wide range of sizes, so even if you live in a small space, you can find one that is just the right size for your household.

 

  • Collie: Anyone who has watched any of the Lassie series knows how loyal and dedicated a collie can be. These dogs are eager to please and easy to train. They are mild-mannered and work very well with children of all different temperaments. These dogs are a popular choice because they are keenly aware of human emotions, so they will be able to sense what your child needs before he knows it himself.

For Cat Lovers

Like dogs, cats can be great companions for children with special needs. Just the act of holding one close to you can produce amazing therapeutic benefits for any child with autism, no matter where they fall on the spectrum.

According to one study, parents reported that cats provided an immediate calming effect on their children. A common belief among many who are not familiar with cats is that they are not as affectionate as dogs, but this is not the case for those with autism. Cats who live with even severe cases of ASD tended to be more affectionate rather than less.

That said, it is clear that not all cat breeds will work well with your child. Some cats do not respond well to constant handling, which could mean trouble for you and your child. Below is a few recommended breeds that may work well with your child’s unique needs,

  • Birman: This breed is easy to train. If you adopt one at a very young age, you can even teach them to walk on a lead if you want. Because they are so loyal, you won’t have to worry about them running off or hiding when your child wants to play. 

That said, if you have an overly active child, this may not be a good fit. The Birman is a quiet cat that will stick by your child’s side while he works through his schoolwork or practice his reading. They are very effective at calming excited children and less inclined to be a part of a game.

  • Maine Coon: These are not only beautiful cats; they are extremely intelligent as well. They are amiable enough to be trained quickly and are very gentle. Because of their larger size, their bodies can endure a little rough treatment, so you won’t have to worry much if your child gets overly excited with them. They enjoy playing games which opens up lots of possibilities for your child to connect. 

However, because of their long fur, they will need regular grooming and daily care. Teaching your child to handle these needs provides an excellent opportunity to connect emotionally with them. The grooming process offers a routine that autistic children can adapt to very well.

  • Abyssinian: Not only is this a gorgeous cat that comes with the elegance and style of ancient Egypt, but they are also very active and fun to play with. As a rule, they respond very well to children and their antics. Because of their insatiable curiosity, they will enjoy working with your child on puzzle toys and games, and their high energy level means they will expect a lot of attention. 

However, this cat needs a child with a high energy level to keep him interested and engaged in regular activities.

  • American Curl: This lovely cat has a natural curl that makes them stand out from any other cat. They are very playful and intelligent enough to engage well in challenging games. They make for a loyal friend who will bond quickly and easily with your child, helping them create an unbreakable bond. However, they don’t do well if they are left alone for long periods. They need constant interaction.

How to Decide on The Best Pet For Your Autistic Child

While deciding what dog is the best pet for an autistic child, it helps to consider what animals, especially dogs and cats, bring to the relationship.

  1. They teach compassion and empathy
  2. Help to relieve anxiety and stress
  3. Teach your child how to make connections and build relationships
  4. Help your child to suppress autism symptoms and gain better control
  5. Provide trust and loyalty

Regardless of where your child lands on the autism spectrum, choosing the right pet can be the solution to many challenges parents find while navigating the world of autism. Make sure you consider your child’s personality and how he will interact. Then test the waters first, to make sure you have found the best match.

Best Games for Autistic Toddlers in 2021

Best Games for Autistic Toddlers in 2021

A child’s brain is a truly incredible thing. While the brain will continue to grow well into the adult years, Dr. Eric Chudler, a research neuroscientist at the University of Washington, suggests that by the time a child is two years old, their brain will have already “grown to 80% of its adult size”.

Brain growth occurs not only in physical size, but the cognitive ability and critical thinking significantly increase during the early years. Between the ages of one and three, toddlers will learn faster than they ever will in their teenage and adult lives. Their ability to think and understand directly contributes to the development of fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

While it’s true that kids, both with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD), experience this rapid cerebral development, the way they learn and understand new things greatly varies from child to child. So when using toys and games to aid in this process, choosing the right ones can make all the difference.

How Games Promote Healthy Brain Development

Toys and games serve a dual purpose. First, they can entertain your child, keeping their young mind occupied for hours while simultaneously fine-tuning their motor skills and sensory processing ability.

Take, for example, simple wooden blocks. To a grown adult, the simple act of placing one block on top of another is far from groundbreaking. But for a curious toddler. Stacking blocks teach them coordination, focus, and even basic comprehension of gravity. 

Utilizing lights, sounds, colors, and textures, designers of children’s games often use their products to target the development of a specific skill.

It’s important to remember that your son or daughter isn’t just playing; they are learning. Playtime will build the foundation for vital skills that they will continue to develop for the rest of their lives.

Which Games are Best for Children with Autism?

Buying games for autistic children is challenging to say the least. Unfortunately, there is no special aisle at your local supermarket dedicated to “special needs” products. On top of that, autistic kids can be particularly picky regarding their toys and games. Often, a child will latch on to their favorite toy refuse to play with anything else. So, where can you find games that are both fun and educational for your child?

Thankfully, due in part to the incredible community of parents of autistic children, there is an ever-expanding online supply of games specifically designed to help kids on the spectrum learn and grow. But how do you know which games are suitable for your son or daughter? Here are a few factors to consider before purchasing.

Age and Ability– Obviously, a one-year-old child isn’t going to be able to do the same things that a three-year-old can. So when purchasing games, keep your child’s skill level in mind. Overly simple games will bore older toddlers, while more complicated ones can confuse or even overwhelm younger kids.

Interests – Even at an early age, kids develop preferences. Some like puzzles; for others, it may be cars or animals. Take these interests into account when purchasing games. Catering to things they like will help to promote an enjoyable learning environment.

Purpose of the Game – Different games are designed to teach different skills. Ask yourself: What do I want to teach my child with this game? Motor skills? Social interaction? Sensory exploration? Pinpointing a specific goal will help you narrow your search.

Hazards – Not all games are created equally. Unfortunately, some companies brand their products as “specifically designed for kids with ASD” only to sell to a broader market. Games like these often have small parts and magnets that pose a real danger to an autistic child. Be sure to research a game and its manufacturer thoroughly before buying. 

Our Favorite Games for Autistic Kids

If you are confused about where to start looking for games for your autistic child, don’t fret! Here is a list of our favorite learning games that your son or daughter is sure to love.

UGEMIA Popping Bubble Puzzle – Our Favorite Anxiety Relief Game

Popping bubble toys have exploded in popularity this year, and for a good reason. The simplistic silicone design of these toys can relax a child by providing stimulating haptic and aural feedback.

UGEMIA has taken the popular toys a step further, turning them into a fun and engaging game. This puzzle not only provides all the stress-relieving benefits of traditional popping toys but adds a learning aspect to its design, allowing a child to organize the different geometric shapes into patterns that fit together.

All the pieces are waterproof and easily cleaned with soap and water, making this popping bubble puzzle an excellent game for nonverbal autistic children or little ones who like to put things in their mouths.

PEPKOO iPad Case for Kids – A Must-Have Accessory for ELearning

Kids today are growing up in a digital age. While there are differing opinions regarding autism and video games, many educational apps are available to assist toddlers with ASD learn and develop vital cognitive skills.

The PEPKOO protective iPad case is designed with toddlers in mind. The soft, lightweight, EVA foam construction is easy on little hands and will protect your device from any knocks and drops, while the two-piece design helps to keep your Ipad firmly secured inside the case.

Interactive Whack A Frog Game – A Game Your Kids will Love for Years to Come

This at-home take on the arcade classic: “whack a mole” is a great interactive game that teaches focus and hand-eye coordination. Utilizing lights and sounds, “Whack A Frog” is designed to heighten your son or daughter’s ability to process sensory stimuli.

Your child can play either alone or with a partner making it an excellent autism game for social skills, teaching them how to take turns and work as a team. 

“Whack A Frog” is easy to learn, and as your child builds up their fine motor skills, they can grow into the more challenging game modes. This is a game that your child will be able to enjoy for years to come.

eeBoo I Never Forget a Face Memory Matching Game for Kids – A Fun way to Practice memory and Social Skills

Traditional board games are virtually impossible for kids with ASD. Even games intended for small children usually require prolonged focus and have tiny pieces that create a choking hazard. However, “Never Forget a Face” is different and one of the best board games for autism.

This matching game is comprised of 48 large, durable cards that help improve your child’s memory and recognition skills. Additionally, when played together with either a parent or sibling, “Never Forget a Face” provides an excellent oppourtunity to hone a child’s cooperation and social skills.

Fun and Function -Sensory Mini Mats – Create your Own Sensory Games

Many kids on the spectrum have a heightened sensory perception which can affect them in one of two ways when it comes to physically touching things. They may quickly become overwhelmed by textures they find unpleasant. Or on the other hand, with textures they find comforting, they might want to continuously explore the feeling, touching an object with their hands, feet, and/or face. The latter is a healthy part of sensory processing, and “Fun and Function Sensory Mini Mats” allow your child to explore six unique textures.

While these “Sensory Mini Mats” themselves are not a game, their versatility opens the door for many creative applications. Because they won’t slide around on the floor and have built-in grommets for wall mounting, you and your child can create your own games and activities exploring the sense of touch.

Finding the Right Games for Your Child with Autism

Buying games for your autistic child isn’t easy. Of course, games should be fun and engaging, so your son or daughter enjoys playing with them. Still, at the same time, you also want them to help in developing their social skills, hand-eye coordination their ability to process sensory input.

Remember, every kid is different, and it’s going to take some time to learn how your child learns, plays, and develops mentally. You won’t know what your son or daughter likes most of the time until you both give it a try. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different toys and games until you find the ones that best suit your family’s needs.

If you are confused or have questions about which games are best for your child, don’t hold back from asking your child’s doctor or therapist. They can help you pinpoint the best options for your son or daughter’s specific circumstances. 

 

The Best Bed Pads for Autism

The Best Bed Pads for Autism

Bed pads have become a household staple in many homes, for those housing neurotypical children and those with Autistic children. This simple invention has been praised by many for saving mattresses, easing sleep, and providing protection. 

Although they have basic designs, there are countless options to choose from. So how do you know which option is best for your household? Follow along with us as we dissect the many benefits, styles, and sizes of bed pads and share some of our favorite options. 

Benefits of Using Bed Pads

While mainly used for incontinence purposes, bed pads have a variety of uses. So, if your child does need to use a bed pad, why not look for the many different benefits they bring? 

Let’s first break it up into three factors that may have you looking for a bed pad for your child with Autism:

Protection 

Incontinence is the number one reason bed pads are purchased and used. The fact that you are reading this means I can safely assume you are no stranger to the impossible chore of cleaning and disinfecting a soiled mattress. It’s a project that takes up most of the day. 

Thankfully, with the option of both disposable and washable bed pads, cleaning them up takes only a matter of minutes. 

Repositioning

If you are caring for a fully grown child, finding positioning bed pads with handles will be your life-saver. Constantly picking up and lifting your child can cause strain on your back and stress to your child, especially as they continue to grow. 

Bed pads with handles allow the process of moving your child to be as undisruptive as possible. Parents have found relief in the fact they can quietly move their children while they are still asleep!

Comfort  

We mean comfort for your child and comfort in the fact that you will gain peace of mind when they sleep on a bed pad. Without a bed pad, your child would be sleeping in a saturated mattress for the remainder of the night. Besides the obvious health concerns, it’s just plain uncomfortable for them.

As a concerned parent, you may frequently wake up and check on their mattress to assure they are safe and comfortable. Bed pads quickly eliminate your stress and your child’s discomfort, allowing you both to get a good night’s rest.

Different options

Now that we can see how bed pads are not only helpful but necessary, it’s time to think about the different options they come in. Of course, everything comes in variety these days, yes, even bed pads! 

Instead of making this a deterrent, let’s see what each option has to offer you. This way, you can see which option is best for your family.

Disposable vs. Washable 

If you are looking for a single-use item, disposable bed pads are ideal for you. Each morning, these are removed, thrown away, and exchanged with a fresh pad. While amazingly convenient, they are not always the most economically friendly choice.

As with disposable pads, washable bed pads are removed each morning and exchanged with a fresh pad. But they can be washed and reused again and again. While initially a pricier option, they can be viewed as an investment that will save you hundreds! Many also come in packs, so you don’t need to run the washing machine every day. Often made with cotton blends, they get the bonus of being more comfortable compared to a crinkly disposable pad. 

Handles vs. Wings

As we’ve already said, bed pads with handles are ideal for repositioning and moving your child while they are in bed. However, beware only to purchase those that are absorbent, washable, or waterproof! Instead, you can find options whose prime purpose is to move patients. These have more of a nylon texture to them and are not as comfortable as other fabric options. 

(Don’t worry, we have you covered with some of our favorite options below!)

Similar to a fitted sheet, bed pads with wings tuck under the middle of the mattress. The wings offer more protection and prevent the pad from moving around during the night. 

Choosing The Best Bed Pad Size

The most significant factor when considering a bed pad size is your child’s age and their bed. Are they a toddler or young child? Or are they a teenager or adult? For example, a queen-size bed will require a larger bed pad than a twin-size bed. 

Most bed pads don’t cover the entire mattress. For increased protection, find a pad that covers most of the bed. Covering the whole bed is especially important if your child with Autism is a rough sleeper who frequently moves and kicks. In addition, autism-proof bedsheets and a large bed pad will guarantee maximum protection and help avoid the pad from sliding off.   

Best Bed Pads For Autism

We have compiled a list of our top choices for bed pads. Follow along to see our recommendations in a variety of different categories. 

EPICA Quilted Bed Pad – Best Washable Bed Pad

This extra long pad is great for adults or children who toss and turn in their sleep and may typically kick off a pad. It’s large enough to guarantee protection and has no slip back. Especially appealing is the comfortable fabric Epica uses. As it’s a quilted material, it locks away moisture to keep both your child and their mattress dry. Also, unlike other washable options, the waterproof layer in this pad won’t break down after a few rounds in the washer or dryer. 

Medline Heavy Absorbency Disposable Underpad – Best Disposable Bed Pad

Most disposable bed pads are incredibly costly. Thankfully, Medline offers an affordable option when taking the disposable route, as each pad costs less than a dollar. 

These super absorbent pads lock away moisture and odor, allowing your child to sleep through the night despite an accident comfortably. We especially love these as they come in a variety of sizes and even have options for chairs. 

NOVA Underpad with 4 Positioning Strap Handles – Best Bed Pad With Handles

Many children with Autism struggle with sensitivity issues. Therefore, the top layer being 100% cotton makes them perfect for these individuals who suffer from fabric sensitivities. The bottom layers help to keep the mattress safe as it locks in moisture. 

At the same time, the four handles offer easy maneuvering for caregivers making this a win-win pad. In addition, the large size allows both small or larger children to be safely moved. They can also be machine washed up to 300 times, so the already affordable investment is worth it. 

Careoutfit Underpad With Tuck-in Tails – Best Bed Pad with Wings

Claiming to absorb over 9 cups of fluid, Careoutfit Underpads make leaks and pad movement impossible. 

Bed pads with wings are particularly great for your child as they almost blend in with the bed. They aren’t bulky or clingy as alternative options might be. In addition, the unique design makes it incredibly easy to change out a soiled pad in the morning. 

Goodnites Disposable Bed Mats – Best Bed Pad For Small Children

Smaller children have different needs. For example, although they have smaller mattresses, they tend to take up a lot of space as they constantly toss and turn. Goodnites bed pats cater to this specific set of needs. They are made to fit a twin-size bed and use adhesive strips to prevent slipping off. 

KANECH Mattress Pad Protector with Piping and Straps – Best Fitted Bed Pad

Many caretakers solely use fitted bed pads as they are very secure and comfortable. Kanech offers these protectors that fit twin, twin XL, and queen-sized beds. They cover the entire bed and prevent the pad from slipping. In addition, the five-layer design makes them super absorbent and easy to sleep on. Fitted pads are another excellent option if your child has sensitivity issues as the pad essentially becomes flush with the mattress. 

Which is The Best Bed Pad for You?

As is the case with most products regarding Autism, we encourage you to try out a couple of different options to see which is the best fit for you and your child.  

It’s not ‘one size fits all’ in the bed pad department, so don’t be discouraged if it takes you a few tries to find the most suitable choice.  

With a bit of patience and perseverance, using bed pads can become an easy and welcome part of your family’s nightly routine.