The 19 Best Toys for Autistic Kids in 2024

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We rounded up some top toys for autistic kids based that prioritize engagement, sensory input, skill-building, and fun.

For children on the autism spectrum, play provides important sensory input, which simply means engagement with their senses — sight, sound, smell, and touch (this includes balance and body awareness).

Play also gives autistic children an opportunity to connect with peers (social skills), practice motor skills, and develop a better understanding of the world around them.

But if you simply look up “toys for autistic children,” you’ll likely find an overwhelmingly long list. There are a lot of toys marketed specifically for autistic children. But the fact is, all toys can be beneficial.

We spoke with Dr. Paige Siper, PhD, who is the chief psychologist at the Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment at Mount Sinai. She reminds us that even simple items such as Play-Doh, kinetic sand, or stickers can be great for kids on the autism spectrum.

All kids benefit from and enjoy playing with toys that provide sensory input and stimulation. “It’s important to normalize this. No specific toy is just beneficial for autistic children and not all children,” she says.

With that in mind, we’ve categorized some toy options based on our conversation with Dr. Siper that may help meet sensory and skill-building needs for children on the autism spectrum, as well as be fun for them, their friends, and caregivers.

Why we chose it: Puzzles provide an opportunity to explore how things fit together and to build problem solving skills.

More about the toy: This puzzle set includes eight different three- to four-letter words (pig, bus, bird, fish, sun, cake, etc.) and 50 letter pieces. Kids work on vocabulary building, spelling, and fine motor skills all at once.

Parents say this is a wonderful way to get kids interested in short words. One mom shares that her son is “on the spectrum and nonverbal at the moment… every day [he] does one word [and] pronounces the letters.”

Melissa & Doug is a brand with no shortage of learning toys. They also make a line of sound puzzles that feature farm animals, zoo animals, vehicles, musical instruments, and more.

Why we chose it: For children on the nonverbal side of the autism spectrum, having buttons to push may help them communicate their needs.

More about the toy: This board book has an integrated “tiny talker device” that’s similar to an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device. While that may not seem very toy-like, the story follows a lion named Lucas who cannot talk. As the story goes on, Lucas’ mother gives him a Tiny Talker, and he can then find the words he needs.

Children can see the symbols in the story and match them with the corresponding sound buttons. One parent shares that this book helped her son communicate with her for the first time ever. She says, “The smile on his face makes it so worth it.”

Why we chose it: Many autistic children crave vestibular stimulation such as rocking, swinging, and spinning.

More about the toy: One parent says this toy is a “must try” for autistic kids. Her 4-year-old child, who previously would lie on the floor to play, loves the suction cup noises and rocking motion the Teeter Popper provides. She loves that he’s working his muscles and is stimulated while he plays.

One thing to note: Some parents mention that this toy might be better suited for preschoolers and older children instead of toddlers. They say it requires a good amount of stability and balance.

Other toys that may provide this type of sensory input include the Harkla Compression Sensory Swing, or the Playskool Sit ‘n Spin.

“I have a lot of patients whose parents describe benefit from trampolines, swings, etc. There are a lot of factors that affect whether a person has room or access in their home for these larger toys though. Some kids may get that sensory input at occupational therapy, or from going to a park with swings and opportunities to bounce, spin, and jump,” adds Dr. Siper.

Why we chose it: This toy provides tactile input for children. Dr. Siper says, “Something as simple as pop tubes or bubbles can be used with an adult, then wait and see if the child requests more. Praise when they ask for more or show you something or look at you. Think about play as skill development.”

More about the toy: You’ve likely heard of a fidget spinner. The idea with these snap-and-click chains is similar. They’re a tactile fidget toy that may help reduce stress or anxiety, and increase your child’s focus and attention.

Each link of 24 in a chain moves and locks into five different positions, producing a satisfying clicking noise. There are four in a pack.

Reviewers say these are a hit with their autistic kids and that many of their little ones like breaking the chains, connecting them, and forming them into bigger shapes.

This toy is best for older kids, though. The links may be stiff and difficult to move for small hands, and the pieces of the links are quite small, which could pose a choking hazard for little ones.

Other tactile toys would include things like these bubbles and pop tubes.

Why we chose it: Games are good opportunities to promote connection.

“There are toys and games that help foster social or communication skills — toys or games where you can promote eye contact or shared engagement or asking for needs. Play time is an incredible time to build skills — play, social, imagination. A lot comes from the parent recognizing what a child is doing appropriately and bringing attention to those moments of connection, or when a child persists in a difficult task,” says Dr. Siper.

More about the toy: This set of six games by Didax aims to educate little ones on six social subjects: other people’s feelings, acting out, manners, understanding emotions, making good choices, and what makes a good friend.

Play is encouraged in small groups where elementary-aged kids work together to learn social skills.

While these topics are important for all children, one reviewer says that she bought them for her 7-year-old and found them especially good for children on the autism spectrum.

Simple board games in general can be used to promote social skills and cooperative play, such as Candyland or The Fairy Game.

Why we chose it: This kid-favorite classic is and can be used to foster a number of different skills. Sorting can be a soothing tactile activity.

More about the toy: This colorful game includes 90 bears — 60 little and 30 big — 6 sorting cups, 2 large tweezers, and 11 cards for play. Kids can play this game alone or work together for more teamwork and social interaction.

Sorting the bears by color helps with fine motor skills and may be soothing to some children. It can also be used to introduce mathematical concepts.

This toy also creates learning opportunities for skills like sorting, matching, and counting.

One reviewer shares that her autistic daughter loves this game and that it captures her attention quite well. It has even become a part of her regular therapy sessions.

Another option is the Battat Numbers & Colors Gum Ball Machine.

Why we chose it: This toy provides an opportunity for open-ended play. There’s not one right way to use it, and it may appeal to children who do not gravitate toward a traditional game with rules.

More about the toy: This 36-piece building set is made of silicone pieces that connect via suction cup. With all the bright colors and bendy shapes, you really can make anything or just enjoy the popping sounds of the pieces pulling apart.

One reviewer says that she learned about Squigz from her child’s occupational therapist. They’re great for building hand strength or sticking on different levels to work on your little one’s squatting or bending. A convenient plus: They can be washed in your dishwasher.

Keep in mind that for autistic children who may have developmental delays, this toy could present a choking hazard, depending on their age.

Why we chose it: When discussing options with Dr. Siper, she mentioned toys that promote regulation, such as vibration or soothing sounds. This rainmaker stick is one such toy and can be used for independent play or soothing.

More about the toy: This 16-inch musical rainmaker stick is designed for kids ages 1 year and up. The plastic beads gather in one end and — when turned over — cascade down the plastic tubing to create the sound of rain.

It’s a soothing sound, and several reviewers note they bought this toy specifically for their autistic children. One parent shares that her son “can literally play with it ALL day. It’s pretty hard looking for toys for him due to his sensory issues. However, this toy caught his absolute attention once taken out of the box!”

It can be used well past the recommended age-of-use range, as older children and older adults may find it engaging.

There are a number of music toys available, ranging from very stimulating to very soothing. Two others we rate highly include the Hape Rotating Music Box and the B. Toys Pounding Bench & Xylophone (which provides cause & effect and sensory input, in addition to the music feature).

Why we chose it: Young children tend to enjoy and benefit from cause and effect toys. These products allow them to perform an action and see what happens, helping them understand how things work.

More about the toy: This one by Fat Brain Toys has a simple mechanism that lets you push a ball in, and each ball has a different color and tactile surface. As a result, another pops out.

It comes with four different push-and-pull levers that also help with motor skill development.

A similar toy is the classic Playskool Busy Poppin’ Pals. Another toy that might be more versatile into the toddler years is the Playskool Elefun Busy Ball Popper.

Why we chose it: One of the main goals of play for autistic children is to build confidence and skills, as well as relationships with others. “There is a confidence building aspect to cause-and-effect toys, when a child pushes a button and makes something happen,” says Dr. Siper.

More about the toy: A busy board may delight people at any age (at least for a bit), but to a child, it opens up a world of exploration that’s fascinating over and over.

This one has a combination of buttons and switches so kids can feel how different gadgets work. The lights produce an effect so they can figure out how to turn the lights on. It also makes bird-like sounds to give audio senses a little stimulation. It comes in a Montessori-like wooden design.

Why we chose it: This fan-favorite toy is versatile, portable, and pleasing to the senses. It contributes to tactile stimulation as well as soothing repetition.

More about the toy: The Dimpl is a classic cause-and-effect toy that’s also extremely portable (think long car trips). It’s kind of like a pop-it toy, but it has different-sized circles in varying colors that your child can press back and forth.

Be sure to explore the Dimpl Duo, a two-sided board that has the flexible circles like the original Dimpl, but integrates colors and shapes for more of an educational experience. Another similar product we love from personal experience are the Melissa & Doug Poke-a-Dot Book Series.

Why we chose it: Dr. Siper had some really positive things to say about water play for all children and specifically children on the spectrum. “There is an enjoyment for many kids with engaging with water. Fine motor water toys like pour spouts or water toy sets. You’ll want to make sure the child has skills to use it, as you don’t want to frustrate them with it.”

More about the toy: Yookidoo makes a ton of fantastic bath toys, including this set. The toys suction-cup to the side of the tub or shower, and kids can enjoy pouring water into the spinning wheel, beaker, or test tube components. It feels like a science lab kit, with all the fun and safety of water play. Water can be both soothing and provide tactile and auditory stimulation for children on the autism spectrum.

Why we chose it: As mentioned above, water play can have great benefits for kids. At my house, we joke that if someone is having a tough day, “just add water.”

More about the toy: There are a number of great water tables on the market (or sand plus water tables if you prefer a combo). We really like this one from Step2.

It’s sturdy and a great size for playing alongside a friend. It has a number of engaging moveable parts, so kids can pour, scoop, make rain, and discover cause and effect.

*Price may vary.

Why we chose it: Magnetic toys are easier to link together and promote independent play. They provide similar motor skill development to other toys but with a bit less frustration as they are learning.

More about the toy: Magnetic tiles are a great toy option all on their own. This magnetic tile racetrack from Picasso Tiles adds the soothing element of watching a car go around and around a track. Additionally, the cars light up and make a small vibrating sound that provides sensory input for kids. This set is ideal, as it has enough pieces to be interesting but not so many that it will be overwhelming. Depending on your child’s developmental stage, they may need help building the track to begin with.

*Price may vary.

Why we chose it: “Magnetic toys are really great, as they are easier to get apart and put together. Especially when working on stacking blocks, which can be a difficult skill, magnet blocks are great. I like magnet toys for autistic kids because there’s not a right or wrong, but they do promote motor skills and are pretty easy to use.”

More about the toy: This set of magnetic building blocks provides great open-ended play for children. The blocks can be stacked, sorted, or built into a number of shapes or buildings. They may provide an opportunity for independent play or for cooperative play with the child and a caregiver.

We interviewed Dr. Paige Siper, PhD, who is the chief psychologist at the Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment at Mount Sinai. She helped us cut through some of the information, providing clarity and simplifying what’s actually important to look for in toys for autistic kids (hint: it’s not brand names).

Spier says it’s less about what the toy is and more about knowing what skills you’re looking for and how to engage your child in play. So we considered the purpose of each toy, and parents can do the same as they shop based on their child’s needs and desired skills.

“Some toys will be helpful in satisfying sensory cravings and may be chosen based on a child’s sensory preferences for auditory, visual, or tactile input, as well as multi-sensory toys that children often benefit from. It’s worth considering the context of the toy as well. ‘Will this be for independent play or engaged play with a caregiver? Will it be used at home or on the go?,’” says Dr. Spier. “It’s less about what the toy is and more about knowing what skills you’re looking for and how to engage with your child in play.”

Autistic children may have difficulties with sensory processing. This means they may have trouble processing sights, sounds, smells, textures, or anything else that stimulates the senses.

A 2021 review of research found that play-based interventions can be helpful for sensory processing, as well as social and communication skills.

“Play is a foundation for learning. And in many cases, individuals on the autism spectrum have struggles with play skills. Play provides opportunities for parents to help build skills — play, social, imagination, motor — which really benefit children in the long run. You cannot underestimate the power of play, says Dr. Siper.

Making time for play doesn’t just have to be between parents and their children. Studies have explored the value of play among children of all abilities (including exposing children who are on the spectrum to children who are not).

As a result, you may want to explore toys that speak to your child’s:

Toys for autistic children should ideally be engaging for your child and help them work on certain skills. Kids just want to have fun, and when they’re having fun, they are learning.

There may be special considerations when introducing new toys to your child.

“It’s important for parents to take into account their child’s sensory preferences when they introduce a toy. You don’t necessarily need to avoid everything they are sensitive to, but if it is something your child is sensitive to, those are important moments for the caregiver to be present to really praise and create a positive environment around it,” says Dr. Siper.

She recommends fewer toys presented in a manner that allows children to access them independently and making it clear where each toy goes so children can learn to independently take a toy or game out and put it back. “Then mix it up to create novelty, rather than just adding more and more toys to a shelf.”

Also, keep in mind your child’s developmental stage. Toys that are usually appropriate for certain age groups may or may not work for a same-aged autistic child.

Aside from sensory toys, other good choices include toys that work on language development (particularly if your little one is nonverbal) as well as fine and gross motor skills.

You may also want to search for musical instruments, sorting toys that soothe your child, or toys designed for “stimming” (self-stimulation like rocking) or fidgeting.

Games that get kids working together and honing social skills are another solid option. “You can get toys with two in a set so you could play with somebody else, thinking toward eventually incorporating another child or adult. Help kids engage in parallel play while working to eventually initiate more reciprocal play,” says Dr. Siper. “You’re really following a child’s lead, what they’re interested in, what they gravitate to, and thinking about how can you find more or similar materials to build on skills they have.”

Older autistic children may like toys that let them use their fingers and hands to fidget. Try to get an idea of your child’s interests and then explore and research toys related to that interest.

We like the Fat Brain Dimpl toys and these fidget toys, but a quick search will pull up many other fidget toys that cater to many different interests.

Older autistic children may like toys that let them use their fingers and hands to fidget. Try to get an idea of your child’s interests and then explore and research toys related to that interest.

We like the Fat Brain Dimpl toys and these fidget toys, but a quick search will pull up many other fidget toys that cater to many different interests.

Nonverbal children may best connect with toys that encourage them to speak or express themselves. Research shows that pretend play can also be useful.

However, some nonverbal children may become frustrated with toys that encourage speech and prefer toys that involve other communication modes.

Nonverbal children may best connect with toys that encourage them to speak or express themselves. Research shows that pretend play can also be useful.

However, some nonverbal children may become frustrated with toys that encourage speech and prefer toys that involve other communication modes.

Knowing if your child is hypersensitive or hyposensitive to stimulation can guide toy choices. A child who’s highly stimulated may do better with calming toys. A child who’s hyposensitive may connect more with brightly colored toys that have light and sound.

Knowing if your child is hypersensitive or hyposensitive to stimulation can guide toy choices. A child who’s highly stimulated may do better with calming toys. A child who’s hyposensitive may connect more with brightly colored toys that have light and sound.

In the end, your child is going to enjoy toys that cater to their unique interests and needs. If your child receives early intervention services, talk with your therapist to see if there are any toys they suggest adding to your home collection.

Otherwise, focus on toys that speak to sensory needs, fine and gross motor skills, as well as language development and social development.

Above all else — have fun!