Unexpected Sensory Toys for Autism
These sensory stim toys for autism and ADHD are as unexpected as they are whimsical. They are sure to bring a smile to the neurodivergent folks in your life. Everyone loves a good squishy, but have you ever considered squeezing a stick of butter? What if it was fake butter that was meant to be squeezed? If you like the sound of that, then check out these unexpected sensory toys for autism.
This post includes affiliate links. You can help support an autistic family by purchasing through these links. Not necessary but always appreciated. Happy stimming!
The Stick of Butter
I can’t believe it’s not- no. No, sorry it’s too easy. This is a delightful squishy that I can’t wait to get my hands on. I’m glad they come in a two pack because I don’t want to share.
Sometimes it’s the simplest things that can be the most appreciated. a stick of butter has rarely been the center of a conversation but this sensory toy could change that. Trust me. I have autism.
Downside: it is not edible.
Pimple Simulator??
If you’ve ever dug out a particularly impressive blackhead, then you know exactly how satisfying picking can be. Some people end up with scars chasing that satisfaction. Which is exactly where something like this comes in. They are essentially fake pimples that you have to pick and pop. They come in other glittery varieties, too, of course. But these look extra gross, and I like that.
Little Ouchies
You may have heard of little ouchies before, but if you haven’t, then a stim toy that hurts you would certainly be unexpected. And yet here we are, and I have to say, I have always wanted one of these.
This is the face of a cactus that loves you, meltdowns and all.
Why are these so popular? Well, for a lot of autistic people, the intense sensory input that we get from pain can help us cope with our overwhelming thoughts or environments. That can often manifest as unhealthy self-harming habits. Stim toys like these are a form of harm reduction, providing a safe way to access intense sensory input without causing lasting harm.
In case little ouchies weren’t unexpected enough for you, check out this cactus-shaped little ouchie. Look at how cute he is, just waiting to bruise your palms and soothe your nervous system.
No, I don’t really want to eat legos but by the gods do the texture of these chewy sensory toys are chef’s kiss. Oral stimming can be tough to manage, especially if you have long hair. My little one was a hair chewer as soon as it was long enough to reach her mouth. After buying a few of these chewies, the habit fell away.
They do come in a variety of shapes and sizes and even a few different textures, so don’t think that you’re limited to chewing on a lego.
