One thing that tends to differ between toys and products produced for children with autism and the ones produced for children without any kind of autism spectrum disorder is the added emphasis on sensory needs. Granted, many toys for all young children (regardless of the existence of disorders of any kind) tend to place at least some emphasis on sensory development. However, with autism products specifically for children with autism spectrum disorder, that emphasis is multiplied. Over 90% of children with any of the forms of autism have sensory abnormalities or have a kind of development disorder with their sensory system, making toys which engage their senses that much more important. Below are some of the toys and products developed with an added emphasis on sensory needs for children with autism spectrum disorders.

Chewy Tubes

Chewy tubes are more specifically aimed toward younger children with autism spectrum disorders. The chewy tubes often come in different shapes, sizes, and colors, while helping to practice chewing and biting skills. Some chewy tubes even come in the shapes of letters and numbers, providing an additional platform for learning.

Sensory Pea Pod

The sensory pea pod is an inflatable vinyl pod which children can climb into themselves and relax. It is both safe and comfortable, and children with autism spectrum disorders enjoy the evenly provided gentle pressure that it provides once they climb inside. Some children even like to rock back and forth once inside the pod.

Sensory Balls

Sensory balls are a fun and safe way for your child to play and exercise, while also providing some necessary sensory stimulation. The sensory balls are both soft and textured, making their touch stimulating to the child's sense of touch. The texture also gives the balls unpredictable bounces to keep the child engaged and excited.

Vibrating Teether

The vibrating teether is a type of autism product which has been proven as one of the more effective health resources for developing somatic sensation (the sense of touch) and oral strength and development. The vibrating teether is most commonly found with a ring at one end to enable the child to grab and control it, and a colorful and enjoyable shape on the other end, like a star. The vibrating teether is designed to gently vibrate when pressure is applied to it, making the toy continuously stimulating and engaging to children and their senses.