Parents ask – what can I get for my special needs child for the holidays. The gift of sharing time and allowing for this experience is probably one of the most important. This is well documented in the literature and even pediatricians have weighed in on the subject of play with children.
Play is important for communication development as the below blog author illustrates http://www.playingwithwords365.com/the-importance-of-play-for-speech-and-language-development/ and as you step into the shopping mall on Black Friday or you are selecting toys online consider these developmental stages in play development https://pathways.org/kids-learn-play-6-stages-play-development/. The reason to consider this would be to make sure that your child can actually benefit from the toy being purchased,
Recognize that for children – anything can become a toy. The box collection (by age) of 52 quick and creative idea cards is great for easy ones which can be a guide for fun activities. If money is an issue for you – take a look. All the materials can be found at home:
- https://www.awarenessdepot.com/autismbrightandbeyond1.html
- https://www.awarenessdepot.com/autismbrightandbeyond.html
If it is hard financially to purchase toys, you may wish to contact The Salvation Army for assistance.
TRADITIONAL TOYS:
To me, a traditional toy is one that is not battery operated. I remember using these as a child. For example lincoln logs, building blocks, board puzzles, board games such as Monopoly, CandyLand, Pick Up Sticks or numerous doll teal parties with a tea set, balls, frisbees. There are many others and this site offers
The value of a traditional toy cannot be underestimated because the use o f these involves that of imagination expansion. Here is some foood for additional thought https://www.greenchildmagazine.com/no-battery-gifts/
BATTERY OPERATED, ELECTRONIC OR TRADITIONAL TOYS:
One of my favorites is Melissa and Doug toys because they are very sturdy, last a long time and can be used in so many different ways as children grow. A number are available on their website and here are some links on the site for those who want them toys for upcoming vacations with packing limitations: https://www.melissaanddoug.com/search/?q=puzzles%20for%20toddlers or https://www.melissaanddoug.com/search/?q=puzzles+in+a+box&lang=default
Other toys through Melissa and Doug are Sensory Friendly toys as well as on these sites:
https://www.specialneedstoys.com/usa/holiday-gift-guide
Whichever toy you may choose to purchase, have fun! Without realizing it you will be building memories that will last a lifetime!