Christmas List 2022
Easterseals MORC Disability and Sensory Friendly Edition
This holiday season, we wanted to compile a list of must-have toys that are great for children and adults with accessibility and sensory friendly needs!
Sensory Mats:
The use of sensory toys can be a great way to help those with autism spectrum disorders learn how to relax, focus, and calm down. Toys like sensory mats are a great way for children with autism to engage and learn about their world. Here are some of our favorites this Christmas:
- Sensory Genius Sensory Mats
- Art3d Liquid Sensory Floor Decorative Tiles
- Special Supplies Matching Game Sensory Discs
Sand Toys:
Sensory bins and sand toys are an opportunity for exploration as they stimulate multiple senses at one time. They also improve fine motor skills, increase socialization with peers, support cognitive and language development, and can be used as a calming activity. Here are some of our favorites this holiday season:
Slime Toys
Not only does playing with slime induce a calming effect, but it benefits almost every aspect of sensory processing for children with autism. The squishy textures provide stimulation for sense of touch, light reflecting glitter and bright colors stimulate the eyes, and scented slimes and crackling slimes affect senses of smell and sound, soothing children who may be hyper-aware of their environment. Some of our favorite slime kits:
Rainmaker Toys
Sensory input can come in a variety of different forms. Music and sounds are one type of stimuli that can allow children with low vision or multiple disabilities engage in or attend to an activity. Individuals with cognitive delays may benefit from using a rain stick or other musical instruments in order to learn "cause and effect." Turning a rain stick may also be beneficial for children and individuals who need to increase or maintain Range of Motion in their upper extremities.
Fidgets
Fidget toys are designed to help with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), general stress release. While each fidget works in a different way, they all share a common goal: to help reduce stress, anxiety, improve attention, and concentration by focusing on anxious energy.
Electronic Pets
Electronic pets can be great before getting your child a real-life pet; but they are also great for individuals with disabilities, aging conditions, or children who are unable to have a pet, have a sense of companionship. Here are a couple of our recommendations:
Melissa and Doug Toys
The Melissa & Doug brand of toys includes many educational benefits that allow children to learn and increase their cognitive development. Here are some of our favorites this holiday season!
Barbie Fashionistas Doll
The latest line of Barbie Fashionistas dolls includes different body types and a mix of skin tones, eye colors, hair colors, hairstyles, and more. This doll promotes inclusivity and aims to reflect the world kids see today.
Radio Flyer - Cyclone Ride-on (arm-powered)
This arm-powered (perfect for children with lower extremity mobility issues) ride-on can spin 360 degrees for unlimited fun. The flyer is recommended for ages 3-7 years old and can ensure a comfortable ride.
Last updated: December 7, 2022
