Experts in the special needs community—local parents (with children of varying ages) and therapists (physical, ABA, occupational and speech therapists) reviewed the awesome products below, each of which have adaptable features. You’ll find comfortable clothing for individuals with sensory needs or with features that make it easier to get dressed, fidget/sensory products, and items that help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
The Crocs Classic Slip Resistant Clog
$54.95–$59.95; www.Zappos.com
Zappos Adaptive and Crocs have worked together to create an adaptive style of the beloved clog. Features include adjustable (or removable) heel strap with textured pull tabs, ventilation ports for added breathability as well as help shed water and debris, Crocs Lock slip-resistant tread, water-friendly, making them easy to clean and quick to dry. “We love the adaptions that have been made to these, especially the slip-resistant tread.”
Hoglet by HedgeHog
$39.99; www.Amazon.com
This game-changing fidget gadget and computer mouse understands kids’ sensory needs while helping focus and productivity. Plus, it looks like a baby hedgehog that kids will want to use it. This wireless mouse allows kids to fidget while learning in front of the screen. “Love the colors and texture.”
ZipOns
$39.99; www.BeFreeCo.com
With zippers spanning waist to hem and a thick or thin fabric option, these pants are easily zipped on or off without making people take their shoes off first, allowing them to accessibly transition their layers and free themselves of the condemning decision of what to wear in the morning. “Zippers go all the way so helpful for dressing.”
French Toast Adaptive Short Sleeve Interlock Polo
$13.98; www.FrenchToast.com
A classic look with a button placket that actually doesn’t button at all. Underneath the decorative buttons, the polo collar closes with EZ-Closure Hook + Loop. Made of smooth interlock fabric, this co-ed children’s style is made with tearaway tags for an itch-free feel. For easier dressing, won’t chafe or irritate and tagless with tearaway care labels. Available in blue, navy, red and white in youth sizes XS to XL. “Velcro makes it easy to put on and take off.”
Blissy Silk Pillowcase – Hedgehog
$79.95; https://blissy.com
Handmade and crafted from high-quality 22-Momme100% pure mulberry silk to ensure the highest quality and durability. Eliminates allergies caused by dust mites. Natural body temperature regulator. No harmful chemicals or dyes. Soothing material, perfect for skin that needs a sensitive touch. Whether it be galaxy themed, animal, under the sea: there is an option for every child’s interests. “Adorable print, soft to touch.”
Huggaroo Weighted Plushies
$44.95; www.Amazon.com
An alternative to a weighted blanket, these adorable, weighted lap pads are perfect for home use or classroom use and make a great snuggle buddy, study buddy or sleep buddy. It provides comfort, relaxation and helps children focus. Choose from a plush puppy or lamb. “Nice size and weight for lap.”
Kizik Shoes
$99–$129; www.Kizik.com
Imagine putting your shoes on without having to touch them: no tying, no pulling, no heel crushing and no hands. The patented External Cage technology enables you to crush the heel and pop right into your Kiziks. Once they’re on, they stay on. This shoe is exceptional for kids with scoliosis who may have trouble bending, for kids who struggle with hand strength and for kids in wheelchairs who may need adults to bend down and help with their shoes. “Easy to slip on. No bending or tying. Lot of colors, sizes and styles to choose from. Comes in kids sizes.
Wobble Cushion
$19.99; www.LakeshoreLearning.com
Just place this super durable vinyl cushion on the floor or on a chair for flexible seating anywhere. It is specially designed to let children wiggle and wobble while they sit, helping kids focus as they move. With large nubs on one side and small nubs on the other, children can simply select the sensory surface they prefer. Our therapy reviewers said, “This is virtually indestructible, good size for most chairs, and can be used to increase core balance. You can use it to kneel or stand or as a sensory fidget.” Mom Emily says, “We have one on every desk chair in our house.”
WeightedWarmth Weighted Body Pad with Heat
$54.99; www.PureEnrichment.com
This deluxe weighted lap pad combines the benefits of weighted pressure with therapeutic heat. The versatile design mimics the firm yet gentle pressure of a comforting hug while providing heated temporary relief to your lap, back, chest or shoulders. Help reduce stress and enhance relaxation in any setting with this travel-friendly pad. “Love the color, good weight, soft.”
Tie-Dyed Plush Weighted Blanket
$59.99; www.GoodBanana.com
While most sensory blankets come in solid colors, these fun patterns bring all of the benefits of mom or dad’s favorite weighted blanket to a kid-friendly size and aesthetic. Provides whole-body comfort and relaxation. Evenly dispersed weight of 5 lbs. for children 30 lbs. and up provides a calming effect and the cloud-like coral fleece is incredibly soft to the touch. “Love the colors, vey inviting, good weight and size for kids.”
The Cozee
$349.99; www.Amazon.com
The Cozee is a gamechanger, especially for those who are wheelchair-bound or elderly and have poor circulation. It takes the comfort of what we associate with a traditional heated blanket and adds the convenience of portability and longevity, staying warm for up to five hours. “It is super soft and heats up quickly. I can take this anywhere and it stays warm for hours,” says mom Julie.
To see parent and therapist-approved toys for kids with special needs, visit specialneedsresourcefoundationofsandiego.com/kid-tested-parent-approved-toys
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