Sensory Toys

From traditional wooden puzzles to neon-coloured, bum-shaking llamas, there are literally millions of toys to choose from. Finding the right one for your child's needs doesn't have to be a lottery,

if you think about how preferences develop and where your child is.

The first type of toy we need to learn to enjoy are Sensory Toys. These are items that act on our senses - make sounds, light up, shake or jiggle. Of course, all toys are sensory to some extent, the difference is Sensory Toys only need very basic or easy motions to get them going - a good bang or shake usually does the job, and most kids can manage that!

Sensory Toys have thankfully become much more mainstream in recent years - a trip to your local pound shop, Lidl or Penny's should do the trick. I've got great stuff from Wish, but be prepared to wait for delivery, especially now!

There are challenges to be aware of:

-Some companies that specialise in Sensory Toys can be quite expensive. This may be because the items are more high spec or built for specific therapeutic uses than general play.

-Others are marketed as baby toys, which can be frustrating when you're trying to find something special for your older child.

-Quality and safety is another consideration - many toys use gel, liquid or foam to achieve that soft, squishy texture, which can be a problem if your child likes to bite or tear. If this is your child, you could consider something in medical or food grade silicone, a bit more expensive but will last longer and probably give more enjoyment/feedback that they are looking for.

-Last but not least maintenance. If you've seen those jelly-like sqooshes (my made up word!) you know what I'm talking about, these things get DIRTY and are IMPOSSIBLE to clean! So if you see some on offer, pick up a few and swap them out as needed (not exactly environmentally friendly, but pick your battles  !)