Anyone have a suggestion?

@ersmommy1 (12588)
United States
May 29, 2009 8:16pm CST
I am looking for a nice gift for a toddler boy who has autism. We are not completely sure what level he is functioning at. I have checked a few sites. But nothing seems right.
2 people like this
7 responses
@Foxxee (3651)
• United States
2 Jun 09
My son is 3 & Autistic. It's really hard to find things he will enjoy. With us our son doesn't really show any imaginary play, so buying stuff is really, really hard. What my son does enjoy is coloring, playing with blocks, cars, books & puzzles. What my son dislikes is: play-doh, finger painting & certain toys that make sounds. With all that said, keep in mind every Autistic child is different. Some love play-doh & finger painting & might not be bothered by some of the sounds that come from toys. I think the best bet for you to do would probably be a coloring book & markers or even a small chalk board & some chalk. Or talk with the parents of the child & ask them what his dislikes & likes are. Also ask if he has sensory problems. What textures or sounds might set him off & so on. Autistic kids have sensory problems & that ranges from different levels. Every Autistic child is different. Also, ebay has a lot of good stuff for Autistic children & sensory. Maybe you can check there once you find out what the child dislikes & likes. Good luck.
1 person likes this
@mtdewgurl74 (18151)
• United States
30 May 09
I have a autistic nephew on my husbands side and He absolutely loved the matching game. We had a Dora one and he would come over and he would play it he liked it. He might not have played it like other children but he did lay them out and then one by one match them up which I heard is something that helps. Also he liked those cars that rolled forward when you pulled them back..also musical blocks that has different designs on them that helps their sensory in their hands to notice different textures. And he also loves his mini tramoline which is also good for autistic children but they do love videos also.
1 person likes this
@tonyllenium (6252)
• Italy
7 Jun 09
i don't know if this toy will be suitable for a child who has autism..because in reality i am not really conscious about in what way he can interact with his toys..but i like as gift idea for some children to buy Pleo! Anyway i think they are toy sites may be have activities or toys for children who suffer autism may be these are designed considering advices of the experts and so they can know in what way they interact and the toys can be suitable for him!!
• United States
10 Jun 09
When in doubt, gift cards are very handy. I would think that you could even buy a small box, perhaps looking like a treasure chest, and fill it with quarters or golden dollars. I bet the kid would get a kick out of that and, if not, he can still use it to buy the toy he wants.
• United States
30 May 09
Something very colorful... but soft! It really depends on his level of activity and comprehension. But something with bright colors is good.. you might even look at something in the line of clothes or something.
@ema1983 (51)
7 Jun 09
check out this website for ideas- smarterkids.com. It sells the same toys etc that many schools use for children with autism.
@lelin1123 (15595)
• Puerto Rico
30 May 09
Well I have a nephew that is older now with Autism and the parents you to say by him anything that has motion to it. Something to keep them stimulated.