Tips: Holidays & Gifts

1. Multi-sensory appeal – Does the toy respond with lights, sounds or movement to engage the child? Are there contrasting colors? Does it have a scent? Is there texture?
2. Method of Activation – Will the toy provide a challenge without frustration? What is the force required to activate? What are the number and complexity of steps required to operate it?
3. Places the toy will be used – Will the toy be easy to store? Is there space in the home? Can the toy be used in a variety of positions such as side-lyings or on a wheelchair tray?
4. Opportunities for success – Can play be open-ended with no definite right or wrong way? Is it adaptable to the child’s individual style, ability and pace?
5. Current popularity – Is it a toy that will help the child with disabilities feel like “any other kid?” Does it tie in with other activities like books and art sets that promote other forms of play?
6. Self-expression – Does the toy allow for creativity, uniqueness and making choices? Will it give the child experience with a variety of media?
7. Adjustability – Does it have adjustable height, volume, speed and level of difficulty?
8. Child’s individual abilities – Does the toy provide activities that reflect both developmental and chronological ages? Does it reflect the child’s interests and age?
9. Safety and durability – Does the toy fit with the child’s size and strength? Does it have moisture resistance? Is it sized appropriately? Can it be washed and cleaned?
10. Potential for interaction – Will the child be an active participant during use? Will the toy encourage social engagement with others?

Many kids on the autism spectrum have relatively clean rooms because they do not play with their toys. At times, you will find that your grandchild likes to flick or scatter things. This would be an opportunity to have them clean up. You say: “Time to clean up” and then help the child – taking turns. You pick one item up, and the child picks one item up to put away. Then you take a turn, then the child.