Lynden Report post Posted August 13, 2007 I know I know my son better than anyone, and I know they all are different but I'm wondering if random suggestions will help as he's getting harder to buy for and i'm stumped. I need to get him presents from my sister and MIL and I have �60 of Amazon vouchers and what I was going to get (mathmos projector) is external shop so I can't use them. I know what he's getting from us but its so hard when people ask. So what would you get a 4 year old fairly low functioning autistic boy? Lynne x Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest Lya of the Nox Report post Posted August 13, 2007 lights tactile toys cd player soft toys leap pad, ( not sure of ability soz) x Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
spectrummum Report post Posted August 13, 2007 lights tactile toys cd player soft toys leap pad, ( not sure of ability soz) x i would get interactive games and books we ordered the thomas interactive its fantastic love shell Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
spectrummum Report post Posted August 19, 2007 (edited) Toys which are visually interesting "Children with autistic spectrum disorders tend to prefer toys that involve visuo-spatial skills such as shape and colour matching, jigsaw puzzles or constructional materials." Here is a short list of some of the sorts of toys children with autism may enjoy: bubbles (bubble blowers) colour torch (available from Early Learning Centre) shape and colour matching, or sorting, toys formboards and jigsaws jack-in-the-box or Tomy's 'Pop-up pirate' Duplo, Lego and other construction toys 'marble run' from the Early Learning Centre train toys (especially Thomas the Tank Engine): from push 'n' go versions to full train sets drawing, colouring and painting: this includes toys such as Magnasketcher picture or word lotto videos, especially Thomas the Tank Engine, Pingu and Disney. Books Rather than just a book with plain text, try looking at some of the following for variation: board books books with flaps books that encourage readers to touch and feel different textures and fabrics in them word books (often with pictures or photos of familiar objects) Usborne's First 100 words and First 1,000 words books Dr Seuss books factual books puzzle books. Physical activity toys "It is useful to encourage physical activities that are enjoyable without the need for imagination and understanding or use of language. Physical exercise is reported to diminish inappropriate behaviour and such activities are also helpful for improving problems of motor co-ordination." Here are some ideas about physical activity toys which children with autism may enjoy: swing slide trampoline rocking horse climbing frame football toys which children can ride: bicycles, toy tractors, etc paddling pool sand pit basketball net. Remember that, as for most activities, supervision is important. This is particularly true with activities like trampolining and climbing frames. Games to play with other people " Some games which children with autism could play with other people include: tapes/CDs of singing and dancing games picture lotto games Snap! Whot! skittles Connect 4 Guess who? Snakes and ladders Ludo chess. Edited August 19, 2007 by spectrummum Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Cariad Report post Posted August 19, 2007 When my son was 4 he loved anything "Thomas the tank" or any lighting which is colourful, a lava lamp is relaxing too. Something he can feel with his hands like play dough/putty. Also I know you have those vouchers but this site is very useful: http://search.ebay.co.uk/search/search.dll...;satitle=autism Good luck Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
jlp Report post Posted August 19, 2007 A toy something he likes in real life? Such as a toy fan or toy washing machine? We like bubbles here too (have the Gazillion bubbles set and a bubble gun and bubble maker) Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Bagpuss Report post Posted August 19, 2007 Lynne, we are facing a similar dilemma, so you have my sympathies. Our youngest dd turns 7 in a few weeks, and DH and I are stumped as to what to buy for her. I hope you manage to find something great for your DS....some fantastic suggestions Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
oxgirl Report post Posted August 19, 2007 When my lad was four it was any kind of vehicle that was a nice size to hold in his hand, preferably with chunky tyres. Collections of hand-sized animals are nice too, dinosaurs or farm animals, crocs, something that feels nice in the hand and is just the right size to carry around. Good luck. I have no idea what to get my soon to be 14 year old!! ~ Mel ~ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites