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10 Products for Children with Special Needs

Parents often ask what products are important to purchase for their child with special needs. There are so many tools and products that their children use in therapy and at school. Family members may also be asking what can be purchased as gifts in support of your child. It is a big industry and there are many great products out there depending on what specific goals your child is focusing on.   The following is a list of products that are practical for children with special needs:  

1. Calendar: a daily chart, weekly calendar and monthly calendar that can be posted for your child to see what is coming up in their day. This fosters independence and can give your child the ability to transition successfully through his/her day. This can be in the format of a large white board posted in the kitchen is a simple way of drawing exactly what you need. Melissa and Doug make fun magnetic calendars that you can adapt for your child’s routine.
2. Fidget toys: fidget spinners, stress balls, toy cars, silly putty, and the list continues. It is great to stock up and be on the look out for a small kit that your child can have a school or you can throw in your bag to help your child keep their hands busy in various situations where they are waiting or needing to sit still for periods of time. More ideas for fidgets can be found here.
3. Trampoline: trampolines are often great for motor development and sensory input. They can be used for movement breaks for the fidget child, especially when outdoor play is not an option. There are small, foldable trampolines for indoor use. If you have the space, a large one in the backyard is also great.
4. Visual timer: Timers are one of my favorite tools for children. Time is an abstract concept for children to understand. So a timer can be a great way to teach them time. It helps them anticipate when an activity is coming to an end or about to start.
5. Headphones: Headphones are great for children who are sound sensitive or easily distracted. These can be used in busy environments such as shopping malls and restaurants, as well as the classroom where there is white noise and your child is attempting to complete work tasks. Headphones such as Banz can be great to muffle sound. Or regular headphone that can play white noise or soft music are also good, depending on what your child needs at the time.
6. ID Bracelet/GPS Tracker: This is especially important if your child has communication delays or is non-verbal. If you are in public spaces where there is a chance he/she could wander away or be overwhelmed by the stimulation. Have a way that they could reach you – some GPS trackers can directly be linked to your cell phone.
7. Tent: A tent can be a calming space for your child, especially if he or she seeks out personal and quiet spaces. If you notice your child is overwhelmed, anxious or frustrated, it can be a place to direct them for some quiet time until they are ready to resume their activities.
8. Yoga Ball: Similar to the trampoline, the yoga ball is a great item that can provide sensory input for your child. It can have a calming effect as well. It can also be used as an alternative for a seat when your child is sitting to do work but needs a little bit of movement.
9. Motivators: Paw Patrol? PJ Masks? What are you child’s interests and favorite activities? Preferred snack items? These items and activities can be kept for important incentives to encourage your child to work on therapy goals and non-preferred tasks. It does not have to be expensive toys. The dollar store is a great place to stock up on small items that can be rewards for goals accomplished.
10. Tablet: I say tablets with caution, as I know there are many opinions about screen time and budget for tablets. However, we live in a society where smartphones and technology are everywhere we turn, including classrooms. There is a way to use tablets as a tool, not just a toy. For even the items listed above, you can find an app for it. There are educational games, sensory apps, visual timers, calendars, and the list goes on. Many of these are developed by therapists, educators and other parents of children with special needs. “Apps for Children with Special Needs” is a great place to start to find recommendations.

  Keep in mind, this list is just a starting point. For specific ideas or what to prioritize, consult with your child’s teachers and therapists as they know what is working well for your child.