Sensory Toys for Children: What You Should Know This Year
Sensory toys use your child’s five senses like touch, sound, sight, taste, or movement. These toys help your child find new textures, sounds, and feelings. Many children get help from sensory toys, especially those with sensory processing challenges. Studies show that sensory play helps children grow and improves how they use their senses. Sensory toys can also lower anxiety and help with emotions. For children with autism or ADHD, sensory toys often make life easier and more fun. You will see that sensory toys make a calm and happy space for your child.
Key Takeaways
Sensory toys let children use their senses. They help with learning, calmness, and controlling feelings. These toys are good for all children. They are very helpful for children with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing problems. Pick the right sensory toy for your child’s age and needs. Think about what your child likes. Safety is important. Choose toys with safety marks and safe materials. Do not pick toys with small parts for young children. Use sensory toys often at home, school, or therapy. This helps children build skills and feel more sure of themselves.
Sensory Toys Explained
What Are Sensory Toys?
Sensory toys do not look like normal toys. Experts say sensory toys are fun tools that use your senses. These senses include touch, hearing, sight, movement, or knowing where your body is. Sensory toys are not just for fun. They help you learn about your world and join in activities that help you grow. Sensory toys can help you pay attention, move better, and control your feelings. Many occupational therapists use these toys to help children reach big goals.
Sensory toys often use more than one sense at a time. You might squeeze a soft ball or watch a spinning light. You could listen to quiet sounds. Some toys feel rough, smooth, or squishy. Other toys make you move, balance, or jump. These toys help children with autism, ADHD, delays, or sensory processing disorder. But all children can enjoy sensory play. Sensory toys fit your own needs, whether you like strong or gentle feelings.
Tip: Sensory toys help you learn to solve problems, talk to others, and control your feelings. They also help everyone join in playtime.
How Sensory Toys Work
Sensory toys give your brain and body new things to learn. When you play, your senses send messages to your brain. This helps your brain make new links. These links help you learn, talk, and move.
Sensory play helps your brain make new links. This helps you learn words, feel textures, and keep your balance.
Young children can make over one million new brain links each second, says Harvard.
Sensory toys help you learn about texture, temperature, weight, and space. This helps you understand your world.
Sensory play can help you learn up to 30% more words. This makes it easier to talk about what you feel.
Sensory toys help your hands and eyes work together. They also help you balance and move.
Sensory play can help you feel calm. It can lower behaviour problems by up to 25% in young children.
For children with sensory processing disorder, autism, or ADHD, sensory toys help you handle new feelings and control your emotions.
Sensory toys work with your nervous system. They give you safe, multi-sensory experiences. This helps your brain handle new information better. For example, visual stimming toys show you steady sights. This can help you feel calm and focus. Textured toys and fidget gadgets help you use extra energy and relax.
Occupational therapists use sensory toys in therapy. They plan activities that give you the same sensory input many times. This helps your brain learn to handle new feelings. Over time, this can help you behave better, focus, and do things on your own. Studies show sensory therapy can help children with autism and sensory processing disorder. It can lower hard behaviours and help you control yourself.
Study / Author(s) | Type of Evidence | Population / Focus | Intervention / Mechanism Demonstrated | Key Findings / Mechanism Supported |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Schaaf & Nightlinger (2007) | Case report | Child with developmental disability | Occupational therapy using sensory integrative approach | Better skills in daily life; shows that better sensory processing helps behaviour |
Bellefeuille et al. (2013) | Clinical case study | 3-year-old boy with retentive faecal incontinence | Ayres Sensory Integration therapy | Big improvements in toileting and sensory processing |
Ma & Lee (2014) | Experimental study | Children with ASD | Use of composite tactile-visual sensory toys during parent-child interaction | Some fabrics helped children join in and play, showing sensory integration works |
Bagatell et al. (2010) | Intervention study | Children with ASD in classroom | Use of therapy ball chairs | Children joined in more and controlled themselves better, showing sensory-seeking helps them cope |
Sensory toys give you a safe place to learn and grow. They help you feel calm, focused, and ready for new things.
Benefits of Sensory Toys
Sensory Processing and Integration
Sensory toys help children with sensory processing disorder. These toys give controlled sensory input to the brain. This helps your child learn to handle different sensations. Using sensory toys helps your child regulate their senses. It also helps them develop better sensory processing skills. This support is important for children who avoid sensations or have sensory challenges.
Sensory toys use all five senses: sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste.
They help children manage strong sensations and stay calm.
Sensory toys help children join in play and daily routines.
Calming toys like weighted blankets or vibration toys lower anxiety and help relaxation.
Sensory integration therapy uses these toys to improve sensory regulation and focus.
You can use sensory bins, textured toys, or musical instruments. These give your child different types of sensory input. Sensory integration therapy includes swinging, trampolining, and using weighted balls. These activities help children with sensory processing disorder. They manage sensitivities and improve coordination. Adding sensory toys to daily routines supports sensory development and well-being.
Note: Sensory processing disorder affects many children. It is common in children with autism spectrum disorder. Studies show up to 96% of children with autism have sensory over-responsivity, under-responsivity, or sensory seeking behaviour. Sensory toys help with these needs and improve daily life.
Sensory Modulation Difficulty | Prevalence (%) |
|---|---|
Sensory Over-Responsivity | 96 |
Sensory Under-Responsivity | 96 |
Sensory Seeking Behaviour | 96 |
Emotional and Therapeutic Benefits
Sensory toys do more than help children play. These toys create a safe and comforting space. This is important for children with sensory processing disorder, autism, or ADHD. Sensory toys help children find which sensations make them feel calm or alert. This helps children control their emotions and have fewer meltdowns.
Sensory toys help children control their feelings and stay calm.
Weighted blankets and deep pressure toys give comfort and help relaxation.
Fidget spinners and sensory balls help children focus and lower anxiety.
Sensory play helps children talk and share, which builds confidence.
Using sensory toys often helps children feel calmer and more focused. Sensory input from these toys supports emotional well-being. It helps children handle busy or noisy places. Sensory integration therapy uses these tools to help children with autism spectrum disorder and ADHD. This helps them manage emotions and interact with others.
Sensory Toy Type | Emotional Regulation Benefit |
|---|---|
Fidget spinners | Help focus attention and reduce anxiety |
Sensory balls | Provide tactile stimulation for grounding |
Weighted blankets | Offer deep pressure for comfort and relaxation |
You may see these benefits in healthcare settings too. Sensory-friendly equipment like bubble tubes and weighted lap pads help children manage anxiety and sensory overload. These tools improve emotional regulation and comfort. They also help children have better interactions with others. The benefits of sensory toys include better behaviour, less need for anxiety medicine, and a happier experience for your child.
Cognitive and Motor Skills
Sensory toys help with more than emotions. They also support your child’s thinking and movement skills. Sensory play helps your child build new nerve connections in the brain. This improves memory, language, and problem-solving skills. Sensory toys use many senses, which helps learning and focus.
Squeezing, pulling, and rolling sensory toys improve fine motor skills.
Playing with things like play dough and sand helps hand-eye coordination.
Gross motor skills grow when children crawl, jump, or balance during sensory activities.
Sensory toys help children explore, be creative, and interact with others.
Early use of sensory toys helps your child learn faster and build strong skills. Sensory integration therapy and paediatric occupational therapy use these toys to help children reach milestones. Sensory toys also help children with sensory processing disorder, autism, or ADHD control emotions and improve focus.
Motor Skill Type | Measurable Outcomes | Sensory Toy/Intervention Examples | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
Fine Motor Skills | Improved grasping, handwriting, in-hand manipulation, bilateral coordination, hand-eye coordination, dexterity | Textured objects, pegboards, therapy putty, tweezers, threading beads, drawing, cutting with scissors | Activities target small muscle movements, strengthening fingers and improving precision needed for daily tasks like dressing and feeding. |
Gross Motor Skills | Enhanced balance, coordination, muscle strength, posture, motor planning | Swinging, obstacle courses, outdoor play, weighted vests, textured mats | Activities promote large muscle control, body awareness, and sensory regulation, supporting tasks like running, jumping, climbing, and maintaining posture. |
Sensory Integration | Better sensory processing, reduced anxiety, improved engagement | Sensory diets, deep pressure activities, sensory gyms, environmental modifications | Sensory regulation through tactile and proprioceptive input improves overall motor skill development and participation in activities. |
Supportive Factors | Increased independence, achievement of developmental milestones, parental involvement | Environmental modifications, family collaboration | Sustains and accelerates progress by reinforcing therapy techniques in daily environments. |
You can see that sensory toys help children become more independent. They help children reach milestones and involve families more. Using sensory toys every day helps your child feel confident, capable, and ready for new challenges.
Types of Sensory Toys
Sensory Fidget Toys
Sensory fidget toys come in lots of shapes and sizes. These toys help you stay focused and feel relaxed. They also help you handle stress. You can use them at home or in school. Some children use them during therapy too. Sensory fidget toys work with touch, sight, and movement. You can squeeze, stretch, spin, or roll them. Many children with autism or ADHD use these toys. They help children stay calm and pay attention.
Here is a table that shows some popular sensory fidget toys and what they do:
Fidget Toy Name | Sensory Type | Description and Benefits |
|---|---|---|
Marble Maze Mat | Tactile, Visual | Helps fine motor skills and focus; lowers anxiety |
Magnetic Fidget Spinner Rings | Tactile, Visual | Quiet spinning helps with sensory needs and focus |
Textured Stretchy Strings | Tactile | Different textures calm anxiety and help focus |
Squishy Balls | Tactile | Eases stress and gives calming sensory input |
Liquid Motion Bubbles | Visual | Makes you feel relaxed and helps you focus |
Clickers | Auditory | Supports hearing and helps with emotions |
Chewelry | Oral Motor | Gives input by chewing |
Aromatherapy Toys | Smell | Lets you try new smells and helps you relax |
Tip: Pick sensory fidget toys that your child likes. Some children want soft textures. Others like bright colours or gentle sounds.
Toys by Age Group
Sensory toys change as children get older. You should choose toys that fit your child’s age and stage. Babies need soft toys with simple sounds and textures. Toddlers like sensory bins, play dough, and water tables. Preschoolers enjoy art, movement games, and sensory play. School-age children use fidget toys, STEM kits, and stress gadgets.
Here is a quick guide for picking sensory toys for each age group:
Age Group | Sensory Toy Recommendations | Developmental Focus |
|---|---|---|
Babies (0-12 months) | Soft balls, rattles, tummy mats | Early sensory play |
Toddlers (1-3 years) | Sensory bins, play dough, water tables | Touch and fine motor skills |
Preschoolers (3-5) | Sensory art, movement games, pretend play | Creativity and problem-solving |
School-age (6+) | Fidget toys, STEM kits, sensory bottles | Focus, self-control, creativity |
Note: Always check safety labels and age advice before buying sensory toys.
Toys for Different Senses
Sensory toys help many senses. You can pick toys for touch, sight, sound, smell, or oral input. Research shows sensory toys help children with autism and sensory processing disorder. These toys help with sensory control, emotions, and social skills.
Here are the main types of sensory toys:
Category | Description | Sensory Modality / Application |
|---|---|---|
Chew Toys | Safe toys for oral stimulation | Oral input |
Tactile Toys | Textured balls, mats, and objects for touch | Touch stimulation |
Hearing Toys | Musical instruments and sound makers | Hearing stimulation |
Sensory Walls | Panels with textures and lights | Multi-sensory experiences |
Sensory Tables | Sand, water, or rice for sensory play | Multi-sensory experiences |
Others | Special sets for community or therapy | Niche sensory uses |
You can use sensory toys at home, in school, or in clinics. These toys help children learn and play. They also help children grow. You support your child’s development by picking toys that fit their sensory needs.
Choosing Sensory Toys
Matching Toys to Needs
Picking sensory toys starts with knowing your child’s needs. You should choose toys that suit your child’s age and interests. Think about what your child likes and how they play. Experts say you should follow some steps to help you choose:
Decide what you want your child to learn, like better focus or less anxiety.
Choose toys that match your child’s age and how they are growing.
Pick toys that help with certain skills, such as fine motor or language.
Watch how your child feels and what makes them want to play.
Make sure the toys can be used at home or at school.
Use toys that help good behaviour and work with therapy.
Listen to advice from therapists and look at trusted research.
Tip: Watch your child when they play with sensory toys. Their actions will help you pick the best toys.
Safety and Quality
Safety is very important when picking sensory toys. Always check for the CE mark, which means the toy is safe in Europe. This mark shows the toy does not have harmful chemicals like BPA or phthalates. For children under three, look for extra safety to stop choking. The ASTM F963 rule also checks materials and warnings on the box.
Pick toys made from safe materials, like BPA-free plastic or plain wood. Strong toys with smooth edges help stop injuries. Battery parts must be locked. Check toys often for damage or loose bits. Eco-friendly choices, like FSC wood or organic cotton, are safer and help children grow well.
Safety Checklist | What to Look For |
|---|---|
CE Mark | On packaging and toy |
Non-toxic Materials | BPA-free, phthalate-free, untreated wood |
Secure Parts | No loose or small pieces |
Smooth Surfaces | No sharp edges |
Age-Appropriate | Matches your child’s age |
DIY Sensory Toys
You can make sensory toys at home that are safe and fun. Many homemade toys use simple, safe materials and help with different needs. Here are some ideas you can try:
Make a calm space with soft seats and gentle pictures.
Create stress balls by filling balloons with flour or rice.
Set up bins with rice, beans, or pasta for touch play.
Sew lap pads with fabric and rice for calming pressure.
Use headphones with soft foam to block loud sounds.
Fill bottles with glitter and water to make fidget bottles.
Always use safe, non-toxic things.
Do not use small parts for young children.
Check homemade toys often for damage.
Note: Playing with sensory toys you make at home can be just as good as using ones from the shop. These activities help children learn, focus, and feel calm.
Sensory Toy Use Scenarios
At Home
You can use sensory play every day at home. Sensory bins with rice or beans help you touch and feel. They also help your fingers get stronger. Swings and rocking chairs give gentle movement that calms you. Play dough and putty make your hands stronger. Water play, like pouring and splashing, lets you feel different things. Carrying groceries or pushing baskets gives deep pressure to your body. Music and dancing help you know where your body is and listen better. Blowing bubbles helps you control your breath and watch the bubbles move. Nature walks let you see, hear, and feel new things. They also help you relax.
Tip: Make a calm spot with pillows, weighted blankets, and favourite toys. Change the lights and use rugs or curtains to keep noise down. Keep fidget toys and squeeze balls close by. Tidy up to stop too much mess and too many things to look at.
In School or Classroom Settings
Sensory toys help you focus and learn in school. Flexible seats like ball chairs and beanbags let you move. Doing jobs like carrying books gives calming pressure. Using small toys and fidgets helps you learn with your hands. Chewable jewellery and pencil toppers help your mouth feel busy. Movement breaks, like GoNoodle, help you stay calm. Weighted lap pads and vests make sitting more comfortable. Quiet spaces let you calm down if you feel too much. Timers and calm-down bottles help you change from one thing to another.
Sensory Toy | Classroom Use | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
Fidget spinner | Desk work | Helps you focus |
Weighted lap pad | Reading time | Makes you feel calm |
Chewable pencil topper | Writing | Helps your mouth feel busy |
Calm-down bottle | Transitions | Lowers your worry |
Michelle Connolly, who teaches children, says sensory-friendly classrooms help everyone. Sensory toy libraries and using normal things in new ways help all children join in and learn.
Outdoor and Community Environments
Playing outside gives you lots of new things to try. You can touch tree bark, flowers, or grass. Listening to birds and feeling the wind helps your senses. Walking on bumpy ground helps you balance. Picking up small things from nature makes your fingers stronger. Occupational therapists say you should change activities to fit each child. Community events can be made easier by turning down loud sounds and changing the lights. Taking breaks and using calming tricks help you join in.
Note: Being outside gives you many things to see, hear, and feel. This helps you get used to lots of new things.
Therapeutic and Special Education Contexts
In therapy and special education, sensory toys are very important. You need to pick activities that fit each child’s needs. Support from adults helps children learn to calm themselves. Toys must be right for the child’s age. Occupational therapists use sensory toys for special activities. Calm rooms with soft lights and sounds help children control their feelings. Playing games with others using sensory toys helps you make friends and learn about feelings. When therapists, teachers, and parents work together, children get the best help.
Pick toys that are safe, strong, and easy to carry. If you see meltdowns, lots of moving, or trouble changing activities, ask for help. Occupational therapists can help you find the best ways to use sensory toys.
Sensory toys help children grow, feel better, and do things on their own. You can begin by watching what your child likes. Make a space that feels good for their senses. Try new activities slowly so your child feels safe.
1. Find out what your child needs for their senses.
2. Use things like fidget toys or weighted blankets to help.
3. Set up daily routines and use pictures to show what happens next.
4. Work with occupational therapists to get advice that fits your child.
If you worry about your child, ask experts or groups like National Autism Resources or Nationwide Children’s Hospital for help.
FAQ
What makes a toy a sensory toy?
You call a toy a sensory toy when it helps you explore touch, sound, sight, smell, or movement. These toys give you different ways to learn about your world. You use them to help your senses grow and develop.
Can all children use sensory toys?
Yes, you can use sensory toys with any child. These toys help children with different needs. You find them helpful for learning, calming, and playing. You do not need a diagnosis to enjoy them.
How do I know which sensory toy is best for my child?
You watch how your child reacts to different textures, sounds, and movements. You choose toys that match your child’s interests and comfort. You may ask a therapist for advice if you feel unsure.
Are homemade sensory toys safe?
You can make safe sensory toys at home if you use non-toxic materials. You check for small parts and sharp edges. You always supervise young children during play to keep them safe.
How often should my child use sensory toys?
You can use sensory toys every day. Short, regular play sessions work best. You watch your child’s mood and energy. You stop if your child feels overwhelmed or tired.
