Best Sensory Toys for Autism & ADHD From Children With Autism & ADHD
The best sensory toys for autism and ADHD aren’t necessarily the most expensive or popular toys on the market. Sometimes, the simplest sensory items can provide comfort, encourage focus, or help children manage overwhelming moments.
As a grandmother raising a grandson with autism and a granddaughter with ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder), I’ve learned that every child has different sensory preferences. Rather than simply choosing products that claim to help children with special needs, I decided to ask my grandchildren what they actually enjoyed using and why.
Although my grandchildren used sensory toys more frequently when they were younger, I’ve noticed that certain sensory activities and objects can still be comforting during moments of anxiety, frustration, or stress.
In this article, I’m sharing 10 sensory toy ideas, along with some real-life observations and suggestions for parents and grandparents. Remember, what works wonderfully for one child may not appeal to another, and that’s perfectly okay!
For more personal experiences, you can also read my articles, Suggestions for Raising Spectacular Kids with Special Needs and The Funny Side of Explaining Autism.
These are their choices for the 10+ Best Sensory Toys for Autism and ADHD: Our Family’s Favorites
1. Bubble Pop-it Poppers
Bubble Pop-It Poppers are colorful, reusable sensory toys made with rows of soft, flexible bubbles that children can press down, much like popping bubble wrap! Once all the bubbles are pushed through to the other side, children can flip the toy over and start again.
These popular fidget toys come in different shapes, sizes, colors, and designs. Some make a noticeable popping sound, while others are relatively quiet, making them potentially useful during travel, waiting for appointments, or other situations where children need something to keep their hands occupied.
For children with autism or ADHD who enjoy repetitive movements or tactile stimulation, bubble poppers may offer a comforting activity. However, some children may find the popping sounds distracting or uncomfortable, so it’s important to consider individual sensory preferences.
Different Types of Bubble Poppers
- Rainbow Poppers: Colorful designs that often come in small, portable shapes.
- Robot Poppers: Fun robot-shaped designs with multiple bubbles to press.
- Sports Fidget Poppers: Designs featuring basketballs, footballs, soccer balls, or baseballs. Children who enjoy sports might even invent their own popping games!
One of the nicest things about bubble poppers is their simplicity. Children can enjoy them independently, make up games, or simply use them as a quiet activity when they need a little break.
As with any sensory toy, choose an age-appropriate design and check that it is made from durable materials.
2. Fidget Cubes
Fidget cubes are small, handheld sensory toys with different buttons, switches, dials, and other features that children can press, click, roll, or move with their fingers.
For children with autism or ADHD who enjoy keeping their hands busy, fidget cubes may provide a satisfying way to engage their sense of touch. Some children find repetitive movements comforting, particularly when they’re feeling restless or overwhelmed.
Why Some Children Enjoy Fidget Cubes
One of the advantages of fidget cubes is their size. Many fit comfortably in the palm of a child’s hand, making them lightweight, portable, and easy to carry in a pocket or backpack.
They also come in different designs, including larger six-sided cubes with several activities to explore.
Some features make clicking sounds, while others are quieter. If your child prefers to use sensory toys discreetly at school or in public, choosing a cube with quieter features may be helpful.
Where Can Children Use Fidget Cubes?
Depending on the child’s preferences and the setting, fidget cubes may be useful during:
- Car rides or other travel
- Waiting for appointments
- Homework or quiet activities
- School, when permitted by the teacher
- Moments when a child wants something to occupy their hands
Fidget cubes aren’t just for children, either! Teenagers and adults may also enjoy them as a simple way to keep their hands occupied.
As with any sensory toy, the best choice depends on what feels comfortable and enjoyable to the person using it.
3. Stress Balls and Squishy Sensory Toys
Stress balls are simple, handheld sensory toys that children can squeeze, squish, or gently manipulate with their fingers. They come in different shapes, sizes, textures, and levels of firmness, giving children plenty of options based on their individual sensory preferences.
For some children with autism or ADHD, squeezing a soft stress ball may provide a comforting activity when they’re feeling restless, frustrated, or overwhelmed. Other children simply enjoy the sensation of squeezing and releasing the ball repeatedly.
Different Types of Stress Balls
Not all stress balls feel the same! Here are a few varieties that children may enjoy:
- Soft, Smooth Stress Balls: These are generally easy to squeeze and may appeal to children who prefer gentle, consistent textures.
- Spiky or Textured Stress Balls: Some children enjoy the extra tactile sensation of soft, flexible bumps or raised textures. Others may find these uncomfortable.
- Motivational Stress Balls: These feature encouraging words, cheerful designs, or positive messages that may appeal to older children and teenagers.
Why Texture and Firmness Matter
One thing I’ve learned about sensory preferences is that what feels comforting to one child might feel irritating to another.
Some children prefer a very soft ball that squishes easily, while others enjoy something firmer that provides more resistance.
Stress balls are also relatively quiet, which can make them convenient for car rides, waiting rooms, or other situations where noisy toys might be distracting.
When choosing stress balls, look for age-appropriate, durable designs. Some squishy toys contain gel, liquid, or small beads that could become a choking or ingestion hazard if the toy breaks. Inspect them regularly, and supervise children as appropriate.
The goal isn’t to find one perfect stress ball for every child. It’s to discover which textures and sensations your child actually enjoys!
4. Fidget Spinners
Fidget spinners are small, handheld sensory toys designed to spin around a central bearing. Children typically hold the center between their fingers and use their other hand to make the outer sections spin.
For some children with autism or ADHD, watching or feeling the spinning motion can be an enjoyable sensory experience. Others may simply appreciate having something to keep their fingers busy during quiet activities or moments of restlessness.
Different Types of Fidget Spinners
Fidget spinners come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, including plastic, metal, and other durable materials. Some popular styles include:
- Traditional Fidget Spinners: Usually have two or three arms that rotate around a center bearing. They’re simple to operate and come in many colors and designs.
- Ring-Style Fidget Spinners: Designed to fit around or rest on a finger, allowing the user to spin or manipulate them with one hand.
- Bike Chain Fidget Spinners: Made with interconnected metal links or chain-like components that can be rolled, rotated, or manipulated between the fingers.
Choosing the Right Fidget Spinner
Some children enjoy lightweight plastic spinners, while others prefer the weight and feel of metal. Certain designs spin smoothly and quietly, while others create clicking or rattling sounds.
Because sensory preferences vary, it’s helpful to let children explore different styles when possible.
Fidget spinners are portable and may be convenient during travel, waiting for appointments, or other situations where children want something to occupy their hands.
However, not every classroom permits fidget spinners. Their movement or sound can sometimes distract the child using them or the people nearby. It’s always best to check with the teacher before sending one to school.
A Quick Safety Reminder
Choose age-appropriate fidget spinners from reputable manufacturers. Check regularly for loose bearings, magnets, or small parts that could detach, particularly if younger children are nearby.
Remember, sensory toys aren’t guaranteed to improve concentration or reduce anxiety. What matters most is whether your child finds the experience enjoyable, comfortable, and appropriate for the situation.
5. Pop Tubes
Pop tubes are colorful, lightweight, accordion-style plastic tubes that children can stretch, bend, twist, and connect together. When pulled apart or pushed back together, they make a distinctive popping or crackling sound that many children find entertaining!
For some children with autism or ADHD, pop tubes provide an enjoyable combination of movement, sound, and tactile stimulation. The repetitive motion of stretching and compressing the tubes can be especially appealing to children who enjoy hands-on sensory activities.
Different Ways Children Can Play With Pop Tubes
One of the fun things about pop tubes is that children can use them in several ways:
- Stretching and Compressing: Pulling the tube apart and pushing it back together creates a popping sound and provides a different sensation with each movement.
- Bending and Twisting: Children can bend the tubes into circles, curves, or other interesting shapes.
- Connecting Tubes: Some pop tubes can be connected end-to-end to create longer tubes, loops, or imaginative designs.
- Exploring Colors and Shapes: With different colors available, children may enjoy creating patterns or experimenting with designs.
Are Pop Tubes Too Noisy for Some Children?
Although pop tubes can be entertaining, they aren’t necessarily the best sensory toy for every situation.
The popping sounds may be enjoyable for some children but overwhelming for others, particularly those who are sensitive to loud or repetitive noises.
Because of their sound, pop tubes may be better suited for playtime at home or outdoor activities rather than quiet classrooms, libraries, or waiting rooms.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
Pop tubes come in different sizes and levels of flexibility. Some are easier for smaller hands to stretch, while others require a little more effort.
Choose age-appropriate tubes, check for cracked plastic or sharp edges, and remind children not to swing them near other people.
As with all sensory toys, pay attention to your child’s reactions. If they enjoy the sounds and movements, pop tubes might become a favorite. If the noise bothers them, a quieter sensory toy may be a better choice.
6. Liquid Fidgets and Sensory Fidget Tubes
Liquid motion bubblers are colorful sensory toys filled with liquids that slowly move, swirl, or form droplets inside a sealed, transparent container. Some have bright, contrasting colors, while others feature floating shapes, bubbles, or glitter.
Unlike sensory toys that children squeeze, pop, or spin, liquid motion bubblers provide a primarily visual sensory experience. Children can watch the colorful liquids move through the container, often creating interesting patterns as they flow.
For some children with autism or ADHD, watching the slow, repetitive movement may feel soothing, especially during moments when they’re feeling overwhelmed or simply need a quiet activity.
Different Types of Liquid Motion Sensory Toys
There are several varieties of liquid motion toys, each offering a slightly different visual experience.
- Liquid Motion Bubblers: These typically contain two liquids that move at different speeds. When the container is turned upside down, colorful droplets slowly travel from one end to the other.
- Rainbow Sensory Fidget Tubes: These often feature multiple colors, floating objects, or visual effects that children can observe as they move.
- Glitter Sensory Tubes: These contain glitter or small decorative pieces suspended in liquid. When gently shaken, the contents swirl and gradually settle.
Why Some Children Enjoy Visual Sensory Toys
Not every child wants a sensory toy that makes noise or requires constant movement.
Some children prefer watching something slowly change, especially when they want a break from busy or noisy surroundings.
Liquid motion bubblers may be enjoyable during:
- Quiet time at home
- Waiting for appointments
- Travel, when the toy can be used safely
- Calm-down breaks
- Other situations where a quiet, independent activity is appropriate
Of course, every child is different. Some may enjoy watching the movement for several minutes, while others may lose interest quickly.
Choosing a Safe Liquid Motion Toy
When selecting liquid sensory toys, look for durable, securely sealed containers designed for your child’s age group.
Because these toys contain liquids, inspect them regularly for cracks, leaks, or loose caps. Children should never attempt to open them or consume the contents.
If a toy breaks or leaks, discontinue use and follow the manufacturer’s cleanup and safety instructions.
And remember, while some children find visual sensory toys calming, they aren’t guaranteed to reduce anxiety or prevent sensory overload. The most important thing is discovering what your child enjoys and finds comfortable.
7. Wrist Bands/Bracelets
Sensory wristbands and fidget bracelets are wearable sensory accessories that children can touch, squeeze, stretch, or gently manipulate throughout the day. They come in different colors, materials, and textures, making them an interesting alternative to traditional handheld sensory toys.
For some children with autism or ADHD, wearing a sensory bracelet provides easy access to tactile stimulation without having to carry an additional toy.
Some children enjoy rubbing soft materials between their fingers, while others prefer the sensation of flexible bumps or textured silicone against their skin.
Different Types of Sensory Wristbands and Bracelets
There are several styles of sensory bracelets that children may enjoy:
- Spiky Sensory Bracelets: Made from flexible materials with soft, raised spikes or bumps. Some children enjoy rolling or gently stretching them between their fingers.
- Soft and Fuzzy Bracelets: These feature soft, textured materials that children can stroke or rub when they want a gentle tactile sensation.
- Silicone Slap Bracelets: Flexible bracelets that curl around the wrist when gently tapped against it. Some designs feature raised textures or soft bumps for additional sensory exploration.
Why Some Children Prefer Wearable Sensory Toys
One advantage of sensory bracelets is their convenience. Because they’re worn on the wrist, children may be less likely to misplace them than smaller handheld fidget toys.
Wearable sensory toys can also be useful in situations where carrying a separate toy might be inconvenient, such as traveling, waiting for appointments, or participating in certain quiet activities.
Some children prefer discreet sensory accessories, while others enjoy bright colors and playful designs.
However, sensory bracelets aren’t necessarily comfortable for everyone. Children who dislike tight clothing, certain textures, or objects touching their skin may prefer a handheld sensory toy instead.
Choosing Comfortable and Safe Sensory Bracelets
When selecting sensory wristbands, consider the child’s age, wrist size, and sensitivity to different materials.
Look for flexible, comfortable designs that don’t pinch, irritate the skin, or fit too tightly. Avoid bracelets with detachable small parts, and check regularly for wear or damage.
Children should be able to remove their bracelets easily, and sensory bracelets should not be worn during sleep.
The best sensory bracelet isn’t necessarily the most colorful or unusual one. It’s the one your child feels comfortable wearing and enjoys using!
8. Rubbing/Worry Stones & Beads
Rubbing stones and worry beads are simple sensory tools that some older children, teenagers, and adults enjoy using when they want something soothing to hold or manipulate.
Unlike brightly colored fidget toys with moving parts, these sensory items often rely on smooth textures, gentle pressure, and repetitive finger movements.
In our family, we’ve found that holding and rubbing a smooth stone or moving worry beads between our fingers can be a comforting activity during anxious or stressful moments.
For some children with autism or ADHD, these simple sensory experiences may offer an enjoyable way to keep their hands occupied without making noise.
Different Types of Rubbing Stones and Worry Beads
There are several styles to consider, depending on a child’s age and sensory preferences.
- Traditional Worry Stones: Small, smooth stones, often with a shallow indentation where the thumb can rest and move back and forth. Some are made from polished natural stone, while others are manufactured from different materials.
- Heart-Shaped Rubbing Stones: Smooth stones shaped like hearts that can be held in the palm of the hand or gently rubbed between the fingers. They come in different sizes, colors, and textures.
- Worry Beads: A series of beads connected by a cord or string. The beads can be moved individually between the fingers, creating a repetitive tactile experience.
Why Some Children Prefer Simple Sensory Tools
Not every child enjoys toys that pop, click, spin, or make noise.
Some children prefer the smooth, cool feeling of a polished stone or the gentle movement of beads between their fingers.
Because these sensory tools are generally quiet, they may be suitable for older children and teenagers who prefer something discreet during travel, waiting for appointments, or other quiet activities.
However, some children may dislike the weight, temperature, or texture of natural stones. Others may prefer softer sensory materials.
As always, individual preferences matter more than choosing a particular type of sensory toy.
Important Safety Considerations
Rubbing stones and worry beads are generally better suited for older children who can use them safely.
Small stones and loose beads can pose choking hazards, while bead strings or cords can create entanglement risks. Some natural stones may also chip or break if dropped.
Choose appropriately sized, durable items, avoid long cords, and supervise their use when necessary. Keep small stones and beads away from younger children and anyone likely to put objects in their mouth.
The goal is to provide a comfortable sensory experience while keeping safety a priority.
9. Light Up Toys
Light-up sensory toys provide visual stimulation through colorful lights, glowing patterns, or moving images. For some children with autism or ADHD, watching gentle lights change colors or move slowly can be an enjoyable sensory experience.
However, not every child enjoys bright or flashing lights. Some children are especially sensitive to visual stimulation, and rapidly changing colors or spinning lights may feel uncomfortable or overwhelming.
That’s why it’s important for parents and grandparents to pay attention to their child’s individual reactions and preferences.
Different Types of Light-Up Sensory Toys
There are several varieties of light-up sensory toys that children may enjoy:
- Light-Up Wands: Handheld toys featuring colorful LED lights. Some have spinning or flashing effects, while others produce a steady glow.
- Light-Up Sensory Gloves: Wearable gloves with small LED lights that children can use during imaginative play, dress-up activities, Halloween, or cosplay.
- Calming Night Lights: Soft-glowing lights or projectors that create gentle patterns on walls or ceilings. Some children enjoy these during quiet time or as part of their bedtime routine.
Choosing Lights That Match Your Child’s Sensory Preferences
One thing I’ve learned about children with different sensory needs is that something one child finds fascinating may be uncomfortable for another.
Some children enjoy watching colorful lights move, while others prefer soft, steady lighting without flashing effects.
When choosing light-up sensory toys, consider:
- Brightness: Look for adjustable brightness settings whenever possible.
- Movement: Slow, gentle color changes may be more comfortable for some children than rapidly flashing patterns.
- Sound: Some light-up toys also play music or make noises, which may be distracting or overwhelming.
- Control: Toys with simple on/off switches allow children or caregivers to stop the stimulation whenever needed.
Allowing children to express what they like or dislike can help parents and grandparents choose sensory toys that feel comfortable rather than overwhelming.
Important Safety Considerations for Light-Up Toys
When selecting light-up sensory toys, choose age-appropriate products from reputable manufacturers.
Pay particular attention to battery compartments. Button and coin batteries can cause life-threatening injuries if swallowed, so battery compartments should be securely fastened and inaccessible to children.
Avoid toys with intense flashing or strobe effects, particularly for children with photosensitive epilepsy or a history of seizures triggered by flashing lights.
For bedtime use, consider soft, steady lighting rather than bright or rapidly changing patterns.
Remember, light-up toys aren’t guaranteed to calm children or improve sleep. The goal is to discover which visual experiences your child finds enjoyable and comfortable.
10. Stress Reliever (Rollers)
Rolling and wiggly sensory toys offer children different ways to explore movement, textures, and touch. Some bend and wiggle between the fingers, while others roll across the skin or feature colorful shapes that children can twist and manipulate.
For children with autism or ADHD who enjoy tactile stimulation, these toys may provide an entertaining way to keep their hands busy. Some children prefer smooth surfaces and gentle movements, while others enjoy bumpy textures or toys with several moving parts.
Different Types of Rolling and Wiggly Sensory Toys
Here are three examples that offer different sensory experiences:
- Wiggly Slug Sensory Toys: These colorful, flexible toys are made from connected segments that move and wiggle when manipulated. Children can bend them, watch their movements, or enjoy the clicking sounds some designs make. They’re especially appealing to children who enjoy repetitive hand movements.
- Spiky Egg-Shaped Sensory Rollers: These small, textured toys feature soft bumps or flexible spikes. Some children enjoy gently rolling them between their palms or along their arms and legs for a different tactile sensation.
- Sensory STEM Balls: These come in several designs, including larger balls with flexible sections, textured surfaces, or openings that children can grasp and explore. Depending on the design, they may encourage reaching, grasping, and hands-on play.
Why Movement and Texture Matter
One thing that makes these toys interesting is the variety of sensations they provide.
A child who enjoys watching objects move might prefer a colorful wiggly slug, while another child may enjoy the sensation of a textured roller against their hands.
Some children enjoy experimenting with different movements, such as twisting, rolling, bending, or squeezing.
However, a toy that feels enjoyable to one child might be uncomfortable for another. Encourage children to explore at their own pace and respect their preferences.
Choosing Age-Appropriate Sensory Toys
Not every rolling or wiggly sensory toy is appropriate for every age group.
Some segmented slug toys contain small connecting pieces that could become choking hazards if they break. Certain textured rollers may also have parts or materials that aren’t suitable for very young children.
For babies and toddlers, choose sensory balls specifically designed and safety-rated for their age. Look for larger, durable, one-piece designs without detachable parts.
Always follow manufacturer age recommendations, inspect toys regularly, and supervise young children during play.
The most important thing isn’t how many sensory toys a child owns. It’s finding a few safe, enjoyable options that match their individual interests and sensory preferences.
Benefits of Sensory Toys
Sensory toys can offer children with autism, ADHD, and different sensory preferences opportunities to explore textures, movements, sounds, and visual stimulation.
Although they’re often called toys, some children also enjoy using them as everyday sensory tools. Depending on the child and the situation, they may provide comfort, entertainment, or a familiar activity during stressful moments.
How Sensory Toys May Help Children
- Provide enjoyable sensory experiences: Children can explore different textures, sounds, colors, and movements according to their individual preferences.
- Offer comfort during overwhelming moments: Some children find familiar sensory activities reassuring when they’re feeling anxious, frustrated, or overstimulated.
- Keep hands occupied: Fidget toys may give children something to manipulate while waiting, listening, or participating in quiet activities.
- Encourage exploration and play: Different sensory toys offer opportunities to experiment with movement, touch, and imaginative play.
- Support personal preferences and choices: Allowing children to select their favorite sensory toys gives them an opportunity to express what feels comfortable and enjoyable.
It’s important to remember that sensory toys don’t work the same way for every child. Some children may find a particular toy comforting, while others may find it distracting or unpleasant.
Sensory toys aren’t treatments for autism or ADHD, but they can be useful additions to a child’s collection of everyday activities and sensory supports.
Additional Resources for Parents and Grandparents
Sensory preferences can be different for every child, especially children with autism or ADHD. If you’re concerned about your child’s sensory sensitivities or how they affect everyday activities, consider speaking with your pediatrician.
For additional information about children’s development, behavior, and emotional well-being, visit HealthyChildren.org, a parenting resource from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Tips, Ideas & Suggestions for Choosing Sensory Toys
Finding the best sensory toys for autism and ADHD isn’t necessarily about choosing the most popular or expensive products. It’s about understanding what your child enjoys, what feels comfortable, and which toys are appropriate for their age and abilities.
Here are a few suggestions I’ve learned through my own experiences raising grandchildren with different sensory preferences.
1. Let Your Child Help Choose
Whenever possible, allow children to participate in selecting their sensory toys.
Some children love bright lights, popping sounds, and textured surfaces. Others prefer quiet toys, smooth materials, or gentle movements.
Ask what they enjoy, and pay attention to what they avoid.
2. Don’t Be Embarrassed About Sensory Toys
Children shouldn’t feel ashamed of enjoying sensory toys, whether they’re young children, teenagers, or even adults!
If a child enjoys using a sensory toy in an appropriate setting, there’s no reason to make them feel uncomfortable or embarrassed about it.
Sometimes, a simple fidget toy can be a familiar and enjoyable part of a child’s daily routine.
3. Consider Your Child’s Age and Safety
Always check the manufacturer’s age recommendations and inspect sensory toys for small parts, damaged materials, loose batteries, or other potential hazards.
Remember that a sensory toy appropriate for a teenager may not be safe for a toddler.
4. Consider Where the Toy Will Be Used
A noisy pop tube might be fun at home but distracting in a classroom or library.
Likewise, a quiet fidget cube or smooth sensory stone might be more appropriate in certain settings, depending on the child’s age and the rules of that environment.
5. Remember That Preferences Can Change
As children grow, their interests and sensory preferences may change.
A toy they loved at age five might not interest them at age twelve, and that’s perfectly normal.
Rather than purchasing large collections of sensory toys, consider starting with a few different options and discovering which ones your child actually enjoys.
What My Grandchildren Taught Me About Choosing Sensory Toys
As a grandmother raising a grandson with autism and a granddaughter with ADHD, I’ve learned that sensory preferences are as individual as the children themselves.
When I originally decided to write about the best sensory toys for autism and ADHD, I thought it would be interesting to ask my grandchildren which toys they enjoyed and why.
After all, who better to ask than the children actually using them?
What I learned was that choosing sensory toys isn’t just about finding something labeled for autism or ADHD. It’s about listening to children, understanding their preferences, and recognizing that their needs and interests may change as they grow.
Although my grandchildren used sensory toys more frequently when they were younger, certain sensory experiences can still be comforting to them during stressful moments.
And that’s something I hope other parents and grandparents will remember.
Children don’t all experience the world in the same way, and they shouldn’t have to.
Sometimes, one of the most helpful things we can do is simply ask our children what they enjoy, listen to their answers, and give them opportunities to discover what works best for them.
Because when it comes to raising children, I’ve learned that listening can be just as important as teaching.
With love, MomMom ❤️
