When you have a child with special needs, it’s not always easy to find toys and activities that are engaging, accessible and developmentally-appropriate. We’re excited to share these products and activities that were reviewed by experts in San Diego’s special needs community—local teachers, parents (with children of varying ages) and therapists (physical, ABA, occupational and speech therapists). We brought these people together to do the work for you and share their recommendations.
Whether you’re shopping for your own family or have a friend or relative with special needs, you’ll find products that encourage emotional intelligence, problem-solving, fine motor skills, stress relief, sensory engagement, creativity and more.
Tum&Bum
$99; www.TumAndBum.com
An innovative, safe, incline chair for kids ages 2–8. A great solution for children who are suffering from upper respiratory issues but can’t sleep well or through the night or nap time due to their symptoms, like coughing and congestion or for children lacking trunk strength during activities. This chair keeps the child’s lungs elevated at a safe distance from the ground, so oxygen flows through more easily, and mucus drains down their airways instead of pooling inside them, causing the unwanted symptoms. Great for home, OT or classroom space. Alternative seating option for students with low tone and those who seek proprioceptive sensory input. Helps with gas and constipation relief.
EaZyHold Infant to Child 5 Pack – Universal Cuff, Silicone Adaptive Grip Aid
$34.99; www.Eazyhold.com
Empowers children to explore and learn independently – from early-learning basics like holding crayons or spoons to more complex skills like riding a bike or swinging a baseball bat. It offers a significant advantage for early childhood independence, as well as kids with fine motor or cognitive challenges, enhancing their participation despite a limited grip. This tool enables children to explore their abilities and engage in play, educational activities and daily routines with ease and enthusiasm. It’s perfect for child-led learning, encouraging self-discovery and skill development from an early age.
Pura Stainless Products
$9.99–$25.99; www.PuraStainless.com
The interchangeable tops allow teens to use larger bottles with sippy or toddler straws. Pura’s commitment to being 100% plastic-free resonates with parents who prioritize avoiding toxins. The bottles meet the specific needs of the child without compromising on style. Additionally, the Kiddo Straw features a slow flow rate, making it suitable for our smaller bottles and the 18 oz. and 16 oz. sizes, further enhancing its adaptability for children with different requirements. Feels great to hold. Has interchangeable, flexible straws and sipper tops for kids who suck-in fluids in different ways developmentally. Can be taken apart completely and sanitized. A great product.
Crawligator
$89.99; www.TheCrawligator.com
The Crawligator is a developmental toy for infants that provides mobility and promotes healthy infant development through tummy time play. Develops gross motor skills, hand-eye coordination, cognitive and sensory, builds strength and supports independence. Ergonomically designed to enhance comfort and positioning, allowing the child to rest comfortably on their stomach. This position can improve gross motor skills and practice bilateral coordination, using the arms and legs in reciprocal movements. Super cool for children who struggle with tummy time due to low muscle tone or spinal issues.
Evolution Kids Travel Pillow
$29.99; www.Cabeau.com
The perfect travel companion for the children in your life. Now kids can travel in style and comfort, keeping them supported and well rested while on-the-go. Features include raised side supports to stop the lateral bobble-head movement and a slim rear cushion to ensure perfect spine alignment and avoids neck strain. Innovative chin and head support for 360 degree comfort and buttery soft, eco-friendly fabric won’t irritate sensitive skin. Fun, kid-friendly designs. This pillow keeps little heads upright to avoid torticollis. The back is thinner and stiffer, which keeps kids away from the back of the car seat and less likely to get that flat head that can lead to helmet wearing. The larger size on the sides keeps the head upright. It feels like a head hug. Also, the filling is made from plastic bottles.
Storypod
$99.99; www.storypod.com
Give your little one the best start with this audio system featuring brain-building music, stories, and stage-based learning content. Kids tap Storypod brand special content items on top of the Storypod speaker to activate screen-free audio experiences for all moments of the day and night.
SENSORY
What’s Inside? Soft Feely Box
$49.99; www.LakeshoreLearning.com
This colorful, adorable little box is the perfect eye catcher for kids who can’t wait to get their hands on objects and explore the world of touch. Included inside are ten completely different sensory items that engage the senses and keep children entertained through feel. Items include an eye-catching butterfly with crinkly wings, a lovely lion coated in corduroy, a squeaky frog and so many more. A big hit! This toy can also be used to extend learning utilizing items you have at home.
BIZYBOO Holiday Seek ’N’ Find Busy Bags
$9.99; www.Amazon.com
These mess-free, portable busy bags are ready for the holidays with three new festive characters. Each holds 30 hidden holiday-themed objects. Perfect for on-the-go fun, these busy bags combine festive cheer with a classic toddler activity. Great toy for waiting in doctors’ office or sitting in a car.
Arggh! Creatures Capybara 2-Pack
$14.99; www.Walmart.com
These adorable stress balls are designed to resemble the world’s largest rodent, the capybara, known for its calm and friendly nature. Perfect for squeezing, squishing and stretching, these stress balls are your go-to companions for easing anxiety and tension. Made from high-quality, non-toxic materials, these capybara squeeze balls are safe, durable, and built to withstand countless squeezes. One of our favorite sensory squeeze toys. Durable, very squishy, nice size and kids love Capybaras!
Jelly Blox Stash & Stack Kit
$29.99; www.Amazon.com
A building system that kids can squeeze, stretch and squish. Crafted to aid developmental milestones through tactile, sensory play, Jelly Blox delivers jiggly construction fun. Plus, some blocks are filled with exciting sensory materials like sand, foam balls, mini stars and mini bricks. Fun, sensory, colorful. Great tactile activity. Can be used for math and manipulatives for adding. It has similar consistency to slime. Our reviewers said they are like squishy legos, but won’t hurt to throw or step on.
Design and Decorate Sensory Journal
$19.99; www.LakeshoreLearning.com
This is the perfect journal to encourage young kids to be calm, focused and creative. The journal includes four sheets of assorted collage stickers, three sheets of alphabet stickers, three rolls of decorative tape and a days-of-the-week sticky pad, allowing kids to design the journal however they want. It even features a fun, liquid sensory maze on the front cover. Can personalize with stickers and can be used as a calm activity. Great for older kids who are starting to organize their lives.
Arggh! Creatures Axolotl
$14.99; www.Walmart.com
This charming stress ball is designed to resemble a cute pink axolotl, adding a touch of fun and whimsy to your day. Made from high-quality, non-toxic materials, it’s perfect for squeezing, squishing and stretching to help ease anxiety and tension.
Arggh! Ball Neon Sensory 3-Pack
$14.99; www.Walmart.com
Designed for squeezing, squishing and stretching, these squeeze balls are the ideal companions for easing anxiety and tension. Crafted from high-quality, non-toxic materials, these neon squeeze balls are safe, durable, and built to last. Their compact size makes them easy to carry with you wherever you go, ensuring you have stress relief at your fingertips anytime, anywhere. They are addicting and everyone loved them.
Punchkins
$17; www.Punchkins.com
These cleverly crafted plushies feature hilarious one-liners embroidered onto soft and cuddly toys, creating a delightful and irreverent juxtaposition. Whether you need a desk companion, a bedside buddy, or a perfect gift for your bestie, Punchkins has you covered. One of the few toys that is great for teens, it is soft and the sayings are humorous.
FIDGET
HEXEL
$12.99; www.PlusPlusUSA.com
A fidget toy for hands of all sizes. Crafted with six Plus-Plus pieces connected by a flexible cord. HEXEL bends, twists and connects to allow you to create intricate structures or simply just fidget. Nice fidget toy and stays connected by a string so can’t lose pieces.
VESTIBULAR
Swing Hammock
$39.99; www.BolderPlay.com
This hammock disguised as a swing is the comfiest addition to backyard adventure. The thick, durable and UV-resistant material will support safe backyard relaxation under your favorite tree. Kids (and adults!) can sit and relax, or stand up to sway and spin. This is one well-made swing and holds up to 250 pounds! Durable material, thick, rope, nice metal hook/carabiner. We’ve seen them all and ALL of us love this product. AND so AFFORDABLE. Bravo!
Cloud Swing
$79.99; www.BolderPlay.com
The perfect little nest for your toddler to use for reading or playing. The inflatable swing is soft and comfortable for kids that love to bounce around. It can be used indoors or outdoors and holds up to 200 pounds. The large surface area makes it easy for even young children to balance and stay on the swing seat. It’s a great way for kids to use their senses and develop balance and enjoy movement through active play.
ZEN/CALM
Bumpas Weighted Plush
$34.99; www.Amazon.com
Weighted plush toy friends from Good Soul Brands that you can play and cuddle with, and they hug you back. The weight of the plush creates deep pressure stimulation which can help promote a sense of security, reduce stress and anxiety and even improve sleep quality. Bumpas’ arms and legs have almost three pounds of weight in them.
Bumpas’ Mushies
$14.99; www.Amazon.com
Stretch, pop and hug with this soft, comfortable and squishy plush doll with extendable and retractable long arms and legs. There’s a satisfying crunch and snapping sound produced when the arms and legs extend. Each arm and leg can extend to about two feet which gives you endless possibilities of fun. Their arms and legs can connect, allowing them to love and hug you while being wrapped around your body, waist, shoulders, legs and so on. Long arms provide a comfy hug leaving hands free. Retractable arms make a pleasing sensory “pop” sound that satisfies a fidget need.
The Comfort Cub Weighted Teddy Bear
$49.95; www.thecomfortcub.org
A unique, weighted teddy bear designed to offer profound emotional and therapeutic support. Each purchase supports The Comfort Cub’s mission, buy one, and another one is donated to someone suffering from extreme trauma or grief, anxiety or in need of mental health support. This San Diego nonprofit donates thousands of Comfort Cubs to families affected by loss, victims of violence, and communities in crisis. Super soft, heavier than most weighted plush.
Daniel Tiger Core Snuggle Blanket
$60; www.Soulbabystore.com
Designed with tons of heart to bring joy and imagination to your little one’s world. Made from luxurious, buttery-soft bamboo fabric (95% Bamboo Viscose, 5% Spandex), every detail is carefully thought out, ensuring each item is as special as the child who uses it. This blanket was a surprise love! Soft and stretchy. This has enough heft that it performs like a weighted blanket, but yet is not in any way. Great for swaddling. Bright and happy Daniel the Tiger imagery. Loved by all reviewers.
Percy the Weighted Huggable Bear
$68; www.ForTheCubs.com
A sweet teddy bear that’s built to soothe with deep pressure therapy. Great for kiddos experiencing anxiety or sleep challenges, or who just love bears with glasses. Percy is there for any moment that calls for a calming and supportive hug with his friendly smile and kind eyes. Every purchase from For the Cubs helps kids in foster care. Adorable weighted bear. Soft and cuddly, nice size to take anywhere.
INCLUSION
My Friends & Me 15″ Doll with Vitiligo
$45.95; www.MinilandGroup.com
Children with vitiligo will love and appreciate this beautiful doll as an accurate representation of themselves and typical children will learn to value and respect cultural and physical differences from a young age. Each doll includes an “art&craft” activity that offers cut-out and customizable friendship bracelets with stickers, as well as friendship cards to give to your best friends. Another great doll from a company known for their excellent representation of disabilities.
EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE/SELF AWARENESS
How Was Your Day? Conversation Cards
$15.99; www.eeBoo.com
Help children and parents navigate social situations about going back to school, prepping for school for the first time, or starting a new school. Great conversation cards with drawings on the front and a variety of questions to ask printed on the back.
Neurodiversity Bundle (Atlas, Haven, Maria & Sol)
$149.97; www.TheDiscoverySource.com
The series of Atlas and Friends each have their own unique story that provides children a new way of seeing how their classmates, their friends, or even themselves may differ from those around them. Each character is uniquely special and displays their differences in their own way to make friends and build self-confidence. These are great teaching tools for children of all abilities. The characters are engaging and the social stories teach important social-emotional lessons about keeping our bodies safe, regulating ourselves and interacting with people who are different from us.
Nest & Count Turtle Tower
$11.99; www.LeapFrog.com
Stack them up or nestle them snuggly together, this family of turtles offers multiple ways to play. Nest the turtles together creating a colorful game of hide-and-seek. Pile on the fun by putting the turtles on top of Mama to build motor skills. Kids can really count on these turtles with numbers 1-5 on their shells. We liked this product because it teaches color sense, counting and number sense, and works on motor skills through stacking. The added benefit is that the cups can be used in the bath.
Stapelstein Rainbow Sets
$239; www.Stapelstein.com
Comprised of six original stones set in the colors of the rainbow and one bright confetti board, Stapelstein products provide a perfect environment for endless fun and learning opportunities. Stack, balance, hop, toss and organize while using Stapelstein’s versatile and beautiful elements that are fun for kids and functional for parents. Super durable, colorful stepping stones that can also be used for color recognition, stacking, balance, seating and more. So many fun, engaging ways to use this.
Lock & Learn Playboard
$29.99; www.Hape.com
Kids will master their fine motor and problem-solving skills with the captivating interactive play board. Featuring various latches to undo, there’s a surprise behind every door for children to explore as they overcome the obstacles and challenges of each unique lock. The portable set also features a clock, light and a “warning” display for the grumpy creature behind the green door to teach children about safety and door etiquette. Great toy that teaches small motor skills and problem solving. We all liked it.
Tactile Animals Montessori
$26.99; www.Amazon.com
Includes six mini-puzzle animals and six tactile cards with patterns that match with their respective animal. Color and pattern help children visually match each card and animal. An opaque cloth grab-bag is included to take the challenge to the next level. Little ones can use their senses to guess which card is which inside the bag. Everyone loved this puzzle. Matching game with sensory component.
Tucker Turtle at Home Kit
$39.97; www.TheDiscoverySource.com
In the Tucker the turtle scripted social story, Tucker has impulse control issues. Tucker learns to “think like a turtle” instead. He keeps his body and hands to himself and stays quiet while taking three deep, calming breaths. Then, he starts to consider ways he can improve the situation that upset him—and just like that, Tucker has better control over his emotions. Includes: Tucker Turtle at home scripted story, turtle puppet and Tucker Turtle technique wrist cards/ring.
MAGNA-TILES Castle DLX
$69.99; www.magnatiles.com
Watch as children create their own fairy tale adventures with the unlimited storytelling potential and construction fun. Open the working drawbridge and step into a world of magnetic wonder or soar through the skies with an exclusive dragon figure. This set also includes balcony pieces and spiral staircases, as well as microMAGS pieces and plenty of glitter tiles for extra enchantment. Fun interactive toy. Easy to connect pieces. Available in different themes for all interests.
Glo Pals x Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Water-Activated Bath Toy
$27.95; www.Amazon.com
Supports sensory development, cause and effect, cognitive skills, fine motor skills and color recognition. Water-activated light up toy (lasts 30 days or 16 lighted hours) that automatically turns off when fully dry. Daniel Tiger has flexible arms and legs to brighten bath time and playtime. Unique cause and effect toy that lights up when it gets wet. Great for the bath or water play.
Sensory on the Go Magical Playground
$12.99; www.Fabercastell.com
A fun way for kids to explore their senses, develop their fine motor skills and promote emotional well-being, all while on the move. Kids will love exploring all the different textures, sounds and shapes with bubble gum scented play dough, a magical playscape scene, mini magical friends, a functional teeter totter, sound toys and more. Children will engage their sense of smell, sound, touch and sight with this magical themed sensory activity, while also enjoying imaginative play and storytelling. Great on the go kit to entertain kids. Nice travel toy and everything fits in the box.
Playzone Fit Sensory Steps
$29.99; www.BolderPlay.com
Set of five textured rubber steps, each with a different pattern to support stimulating children’s sense of touch. Kids are encouraged to jump from one to the next to create active play while awakening their senses. Steps can be arranged in multiple patterns as well as lined up to fit together, side by side. Using the Sensory Steps supports kids’ development of concentration, sense of touch and engaging core muscles by balancing. Each step has a different texture inspired by five different nature ecosystems. Colorful, made of rubber so they don’t slide around when kids step on them. So many great ways to use these indoors and out. Stack small for storage.
Meddy Teddy Kit
$59.90; www.TheDiscoverySource.com
A fun, interactive, soft and cuddly way to experience yoga, meditation and mindfulness on your own, with your kids or in the classroom. Meddy Teddy is a role model and compassionate buddy for young ones, helping them lead healthier, more mindful lives. The plush teddy bear has an internal frame allowing him to bend into lots of yoga positions. He is happy doing yoga with a room full of kids or sitting in lotus on your desk. A great way to model movements that younger children can easily relate to.
Enchanted Nutcracker Magnetic Play Set
$17.99; www.MudPuppy.com
This festive magnetic dress-up includes two Christmas scenes and three sheets of mix-and-match magnets for dressing up the adorable Nutcracker characters. Includes 40+ magnets in a sturdy hinged tin, making it great for travel. Easy to travel with and great for doctor office visits. No small choking accessories. Beautiful, high-quality tin. Great, thin stocking stuffer for for wider stockings. Available in different themes for all interests.
Alphapals Backpack Set
$175; www.AlphaPals.com
A cozy, cuddly backpack full of wonder and play. The soft plush backpack has breakaway Velcro straps, front flap with snap closure that includes 26 individual mini rainbow plush letters hidden inside. Fully lined to help keep its structure, the backpack set goes with your child everywhere from your living room to the playground, school and beyond.
Asymbol
$36; www.SimplyFun.com
Players develop their creativity skills as they imagine ways to use the various shaped pieces to create the subject from their cards. Card topics include things, beings, places, events and activities. Creative board game where you get to build objects with blocks. Pictionary for building blocks. Players are not allowed to speak so good for nonverbal kids.
Zoo Jamz Doggy Xylophone
$17.99; www.VTechKids.com
Start the journey with free play, where budding musicians express artistic creativity as they tap the bars. Then follow along as each bar lights up in sequence, guiding them through the do-re-mi scale. The final step introduces eight songs little ones can learn to play; just tap each bar as it flashes to advance the tune, note by note. Inspire confidence and learn important school readiness skills like following patterns through three progressive levels. Great at enhancing skills like working memory.
Make A Pie Game
$23.99; www.eeBoo.com
This simple game of fractions takes the confusion out of fractions, because each pie piece adds to the whole pie. Great game for teaching fractions.
What’s Next? A Life-Size Game – Special Needs Set
$54.99; MJ-Games.com
You have a chance to showcase your awesome personality in this life-sized board game. Activities are designed to be inclusive, accessible and amusing, so no task is out of reach or too strategic. Social Skills Add-on is ideal for neurodivergent and neurotypical friends/families, of all ages, to play together. It provides every player with the opportunity to share their similarities, while celebrating their differences together, through gameplay. Our reviewers loved the fun sayings, it gets older kids moving and laughing, a great interactive game for a group setting.
CLOTHING
zipOns Adaptive Shorts
$39.99; www.BeFreeCo.com
Feature zippers on the legs from waist to hem so they can easily be put on standing or laying down without having to pull the pants up over the legs. They can also be unzipped at the bottom to accommodate casts, braces, and other medical equipment. zipOns are available in various colors and are made from soft, moisture-wicking material to help with comfort.
To see parent and therapist-approved everyday products for individuals with special needs, visit specialneedsresourcefoundationofsandiego.com/useful-products
WHERE WE SHOP
Lakeshore
www.LakeshoreLearning.com
Known for their teacher and related services discounts, we guarantee you that many of the toys in your OT, PT, or SLP’s stash come from Lakeshore. They carry a fantastic collection of music toys and often have discounted packs of 5 or 12 for classroom settings. Before the rest of the world caught on to the importance of diverse colors of dolls and STEAM teaching products, Lakeshore had a wide variety of culturally significant toys and science projects. Large print books, toys that help teach about money handling, social skills toys, book-related teaching aids and large-quantity, high-quality craft supplies are in abundance. Our favorite section is near the register, where they typically have a variety of fidgets, stocking stuffers and THE best selection of pencil grips for supporting handwriting skills. Located in Hazard Center Shopping Center in Mission Valley or online.
Hand2Mind
www.Hand2Mind.com
This online resource features really great alternatives for teaching hard-to grasp ideas like fractions and storyline intent. They also carry a variety of sensory products and social emotional skills builders. Perhaps our favorite section is the one devoted to a multi-sensory approach to literacy. Parent resources teach parents how to use their toys to teach tough subjects like math in a fun, effective and often tactile way. The company is available online to tackle an individualized approach to learning and is therefore well suited to supporting home learners.
LakiKid
www.LakiKid.com
This online store is one-stop-shop for sensory needs. If your child struggles to stay seated and maintain attention, if they have trouble regulating their emotions, or if they crave sensory stimuli, there is a product on this website for them. More than a toy store, they specialize in seating, sleeping and calming solutions to some of our biggest home challenges as well as fun and empowering awareness gear to support diversity and inclusion.
Lottie
www.Lottie.com
At first glance, the Lottie dolls seem like your average make believe play dolls, and this is why they are important. The diversity displayed by the dolls is subtle and just what we need right now. All the dolls are inspired by real kids. The full Finn doll playset is our favorite, as Finn loves astronauts and has Autism. He communicates with a PECS-style system of cards, has glasses that help him with glare, has noise canceling headphones that help with loud sounds and is the proud owner of a therapy dog. His friend Rosie Boo has Down Syndrome which is hinted at by her odd socks (a movement within the Down Syndrome community) and ankle supports for walking. Mia is a Black photographer for the school newspaper with a cochlear implant. Lottie dolls are made to the exact proportions of the children they represent, so you won’t find body image issues here.
Nee Doh
www.Schylling.com
If you really want to understand the popularity of this sensory toy brand, we suggest you head to TikTok and watch the thousands of videos posted by neurodiverse fidget enthusiasts. Most will talk about the benefits of their beautiful, fun, hand-sized, sensory squeezie balls and noodles, but we also love their volleyball-sized, neon fabric balls which are perfect for hugging and can be used on a long flight as an airline pillow. We discovered, quite by accident, that they glow under black light in our school sensory room, which only added to our enjoyment. Nobody gets kneading like Nee Doh.
Crazy Aaron’s
www.CrazyAarons.com
We love this king of the sensory putty industry for its variety and beauty, but the website also offers a unique array of science experiments and crafts based on their product. Our fascination began with the space putties and then blossomed with the magnetic putties, with which we could easily lose an hour hypnotized by the putty reacting to magnets and moving on its own. The addition of scents opened up a whole new world, and if you ever owned scented markers as a kid, you will truly understand the draw of this product. Made in the USA and created by a certified science geek, this is one of THE best stocking stuffers on the market.
Miniland
www.MinilandGroup.com
Inspired by Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences, this toy group takes a multi-sensory approach to play and learning. We love the organization of this website, as parents can search by age and child’s play needs. Our favorite toys include a realistic baby doll with Down Syndrome, providing feelings of positive identity and creating a diverse playroom, a mirror with tabs to name feelings, the translucent Conexion toy that teaches spatial awareness, dimension and surface area in a visual and tangible way, and their wide array of sensory and emotional intelligence tools and toys.
PAST FAVORITES AND CLASSIC TOYS
To see parent and therapist-approved everyday products for individuals with special needs, visit specialneedsresourcefoundationofsandiego.com/useful-products
Sensory Squish Bag
$14.99; CreativityForKids.com
This tactile activity provides a colorful ocean scene of underwater characters swimming in gel over a double-sided ocean-themed activity card for children to squish, sort, and explore. Just add water to the magical mix to create the squishy sensory gel. Sensory Squish Bags provide hours of calming, mess-free sensory play while helping develop fine motor skills. This is the perfect toy for airplane travel, doctor visits and emergency rooms because it enhances hand strength and eye coordination and allows for quiet, stowable play.
Mindful Maze Garden Pack
$14.99; Hand2Mind.com
This set incorporates a nature theme in a smaller maze. Children learn different breathing techniques that encourage mindfulness and help develop self-management skills. Finger labyrinths are effective mindfulness tools. They can also help build hand-eye coordination, and this toy allows for multiple mazes in one simple hexagonal shape. Great to stow in the stroller for long waits or shopping with littles.
Hoglet Mouse
$39.99; HedgeHogHealth.com
Specifically designed for learning-challenged individuals, the Hoglet provides the rewarding multi-sensory experience these individuals with learning differences or ADHD crave. Named Hoglet, because it looks like a baby hedgehog. It anchors a child’s attention and has a calming, centering effect. Our reviewers liked that you could take the cover off easily to wash it.
Little Big Playroom Ball Pit
$250; LittleBigPlayroom.com
Create hours of fun and entertainment providing a safe and highly effective space for children to develop motor and sensory skills based on science. Fits up to 3 kids. “Sturdy sensory toy, great size.”
Lottie Doll Finn & Friends Loyal Companion–INCLUSION
$29.99; www.Lottie.com
Finn is a doll inspired by a little boy with a passion for all things space-related, who just happens to have Autism. Representation of diversity in the toy-box matters, and this toy depicts a neurodiverse tween who uses noise-canceling headphones, communicates through PECS-type visual cards and uses a therapy dog. This toy was a favorite among all our reviewers and the website has a lot of great content to support cooperative play. Finn’s friend dolls include child activists and kids of color. His friend Rosie Boo has Down Syndrome which is hinted at by her odd socks (a movement within the Down Syndrome community) and ankle supports for walking. Mia is a black photographer for the school newspaper with a cochlear implant.
Ollie the Weighted Octopus
$59; Mindfulandcokids.com
Ollie loves using his five senses to keep your mind and heart on the mend. He brings the gift of touch, his sensory superpower. He’s here for you to cuddle and snuggle, to calm you down and help you feel secure. Also available: Charlie the Weighted Pup & Francesca the Flamingo. Our reviewers loved the soft feel of this adorable plush. It can also be used for heat/cold therapy.
Weighted Gel Maze
$24.99; BigHeartToys.com
A multi-purpose sensory tool, this calms the mind and body with 2.2 lbs. of targeted deep pressure for proprioceptive stimulation. It also strengthens cognitive development and acts as a fidget toy as your child plays with the interactive maze. Keeps child in seat, great for lap at desk, simple but effective.
Kinetic Sand Box
$34.99; BigHeartToys.com
Kinetic sand is beneficial in supporting physical development, such as fine motor skills, and provides a range of sensory experiences for children who struggle with texture. It is proven to help children with sensory, behavioral, and social challenges. A sandbag, beach accessories and the sandbox are included. Kinetic sand is not only a great sensory toy, it allows children to build structures and reinvent them by bringing the beach into your home. Kids who struggle with fine motor skills will find this more “sticky” and structurally sound than actual sand. Not for use on carpets or upholstery.
Fidget Marble Maze–HAND STRENGTH/PROBLEM SOLVING
$14.97; www.LakiKid.com
This fun, portable, occupational therapy tool is a great fidget for doctor office visits and quiet playtime at school. The student pushes a small marble through an enclosed, quilted, fabric maze. Besides being fun, it helps build fine motor skills. Fidget Marble Maze also provides a sense of accomplishment, allowing for confidence as a warm-up before higher-skilled tasks. Our teacher and therapy reviewers said, “It’s a great, soft fidget toy that won’t hurt others if thrown.” Mom reviewers love that it could be easily tossed in the washer.
Classic Nee Doh-SENSORY
$2.99; www.Schylling.com
Nee Doh is the Groovy Glob. Feeling stressed out? You knead Nee Doh. Give it a squeeze or a smush for a calming experience. “Good price for a teacher. Not sticky, great texture.
Kinetic Sand Sandisfactory Set-SENSORY
$19.99; www.KineticSand.com
With over 10 different tools and molds, and two pounds of Kinetic Sand, there are so many ways to create. Kinetic Sand flows through your hands and never dries out. With red, blue, yellow, and rare black Kinetic Sand, you can mix them together to create new colors or add marble designs to your creations. Use the clear tools like squisher and cutter to watch your designs transform right before your eyes. Teacher Alicia can’t get enough of Kinetic Sand. “My students love it.”
Crazy Aaron’s Rainbow Thinking Putty: Rainbow-SENSORY
$12; www.CrazyAarons.com
With every twist, pull and stretch, uncover a sparkling band of colors in your very hands. Made in the USA from nontoxic silicone and never dries out. Stretch it, bounce it, pop it, tear it and sculpt it. Whether you are camo crazed, monster maniacs, rainbow enthusiasts or fairyland followers, you are sure to be mesmerized. Thinking Putty is manufactured with the help of exceptional individuals with disabilities.
Our Occupational Therapist reviewer said, “All their putty is great! This one has a little texture and some kids might enjoy that added element.”
Nee Doh Dohzee-SENSORY
$15.99; www.Schylling.com
Unlike the Nee Doh Groovy Glob, this neon, volleyball-sized pillow is filled with Styrofoam beads that make it super soft and squishy to hold and won’t hurt when thrown. Our reviewer said, “It works great as a pillow to use on long flights with kids. We also found out, quite by accident, that the orange and yellow neon glows under the blacklight of our sensory room, which kids love.”
Land of Dough from Crazy Aaron’s: Santa Play Dough–SENSORY, SUSTAINABILITY
$15; www.LandofDough.com
From plant-based colors and compostable glitters to paper packaging, Land of Dough strives to minimize the environmental impact of their product. All of their Luxe Dough Cups feature multi-layered designs for amazing play value. Land of Dough is made in the USA, in a wind-powered facility using reclaimed landfill gas as a heat source. Each batch is carefully handcrafted with the finest natural ingredients and the signature wood play tools are sourced using sustainable forestry practices. Our reviewers said, “Not only is this toy the great sensory experience we have come to expect from Crazy Aaron’s, it’s also made with all the eco-friendly qualities we love. Plus, it’s a beautiful stocking stuffer!”
Koosh Original-SENSORY
$9.98–$14.95; www.amazon.com
It is fun to toss into the air, easy to catch and extremely addictive and an awesome stress reliever. It has a soft touch, is fun to hold and hard to put down. It is ideal for occupational therapy, special needs and more. Safe to throw, easy to catch, and just plain fun to play. Available in an array of popular colors. “Great toy. Love these.”
Dr. Calmer’s Relaxing Sand-TACTILE, SENSORY
$12.99; www.DrCalmers.com
Made with actual riverbed sand, this product gives an incredible tactile experience for stress relief and focus. Gently stretch, knead, and roll it in your hands. It is scent-free, doesn’t create a mess, and never dries out. Our reviewers said, “Better than most, good texture, stays together.”
Baby Doll Down Syndrome-INCLUSION
$30; www.MinilandGroup.com
This doll helps to raise kids’ awareness of diversity and inclusion, promoting values of equality, integration and acceptance.
Sensory Fidget Toy Kit
$29.99; www.Hand2Mind.com
The eight toys in this kit provide cues to help children deal with big emotions, calm their minds and bodies, reduce anxiety and stress, and practice quiet focus. Each hands-on fidget toy offers a unique experience, allows for independent play, and helps children become resilient learners who respond positively to any challenge. “A nice assortment of fidget products to help students with focus, stress and self-soothing,” says Emma.
I’m Feeling… Emotional Literacy Flashcards
$19.99; KidsForCulture.com
These cards are designed to help your child understand emotions and celebrate diversity at the same time. This emotion flashcard pack boasts 24 different feelings which can be used (in a fun way) to get your child talking about how they are feeling. Improving emotional intelligence helps children as it improves self-awareness, aids managing stress, boosts self-motivation and more. Ultimately, kids are able to make good decisions. The delightful images in these cards are different from others because there are representations of many colors and cultures. Representation matters in our community, and these cards show a wide range of San Diego faces!
Barbie Fashionista with Wheelchair Assortment and Barbie Fashionista with Prosthetic Leg-INCLUSION
$7.99-$19.99; www.Mattel.com
In collaboration with the UCLA Mattel Children’s hospital, the wheelchair is modeled after a real, rigid frame wheelchair. The doll included has an articulated made-to-move body to easily fit in the wheelchair. The wheelchair accessory accommodates all body types offered within the Made-to-Move product line (tall, curvy and original). A ramp accessory is included for seamless play with Barbie Estate items. Barbie Fashionista with Prosthetic Leg has a limb difference and wears a prosthetic leg – kids can easily take it on and off to add a unique element to storytelling. “Helps with the conversation on how we are all alike and different,” says Sally.
American Girl’s 2020 Girl of the Year: Joss Kendrick-INCLUSION
$98-$128; www.AmericanGirl.com
Joss Kendrick is a fierce athlete born with hearing loss and a passion for surfing and competitive cheer. Whether she’s on her surfboard or in the gym, Joss shows girls the importance of trying new things, pushing past stereotypes, and being a good team player. She arrives wearing a swimsuit, hoodie, and shorts, plus a removable hearing aid in her right ear.
CALMING
Hearthsong Hugglepod Lite Nylon Hanging Chair
$39.99; HearthSong.com
The perfect comfy hideaway for kids to snuggle, read, take a nap, or enjoy some quiet time. Dreamy, creative, cozy and portable for moving from room to room or tree to tree. Made of breathable nylon with a reinforced hanging strap and edging, it also includes an inflatable seat cushion. Perhaps the most valuable sensory swing, pods allow the child to block out the world while enjoying stimulating the vestibular system by swinging. Calming and easy to hang-be sure to screw into a beam when installing indoors.
Tranquil Turtle
$54.99; CloudB.com
The cute Tranquil Turtle projects a moving ocean light effect onto the ceiling of the room. You can also choose between a calming melody and the white noise of the waves to soothe your little ones to sleep. It will transform your child’s room into a peaceful oasis. Says mom Emily, “Nothing calms my child down faster than watching the light projections at bedtime. It allows me to turn out the main light without anxiety-inducing fear.“
CLOTHING
French Toast Adaptive Collection
FrenchToast.com
Dedicated to making the best possible schoolwear accessible to ALL kids and ALL families from ALL walks of life. Their adaptive collection is thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of students with disabilities and those seeking sensory-friendly options. The collection includes tops and bottoms including polos, woven shirts, shorts, pants, skorts, dresses, and activewear. Key adaptive features include: EZ-Closure Hook + Loop featured on lower leg closures and replaces zippers and buttons for easy dressing; Flat seam details and Label-Free Comfort that won’t chafe or irritate skin; High Rise for extra coverage; Lift Loops™ to easily pull clothing on and off.
New for this year, the brand is excited to offer seated wear designs, which aim to promote inclusivity and independence for students who spend a majority of their time using a wheelchair. Designed in partnership with feedback from the disability community, the designs include an adaptive seated ponte knit pant, adaptive seated twill pant and an adaptive seated polo. Adaptive features include seated rises, convenient thigh pockets, and inner leg plackets which enh
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