Carmen Knight, M.A.T., Early Childhood and Special Education

Holidays are a wonderful time of the year. We look forward to them and prepare for them as adults for weeks before the big day. However, for children with autism, sensory integration disorder, or anxiety this may be a difficult time of year. As Early Interventionists and Therapists, we need to make sure we provide the child and family with the tools they need to have the most successful holiday experience possible.

Large family gatherings, noise, different textures of food may make some children anxious as they navigate through the holiday season. It can also be difficult on parents because extended family that may not see a child often during the year may have a lot of questions regarding the child's behavior, food choices, and lack of social interaction. By giving your patient a fun fidget toy like fidget poppers or bendables you will not only help the child regulate sensory needs but also make the holiday more enjoyable for the entire family.

Finding items that will help calm or distract is a must when working with children with special needs. What is seen as a normal situation for some can be very overwhelming for children with autism, disorders or anxiety. Orbiting Fidget Spinners are a fun tool that will help children with sensory input needs or anxiety.

This fidget toy is different from those that I have used in the past and holds the attention of the child in such a fun way. It contains four small circles that the child will hold and use their fingers to manipulate the speed in which they turn. This activity is so important for a child that needs visual or tactile stimulation and will also take the child's attention away from the anxiety they may be facing in a large social setting.  They can regulate the sensory input they receive by how hard or soft they grasp and spin the fidget spinner. This toy will allow the child to stay calm and focused without drawing attention to their special need. Family and friends will only see it as a really cool toy.

This, and other fidget toys, allows children to have a special item that does not make them stand out, but provides the input they need to be successful in a variety of social situations.

Let SmileMakers help you help your patients get through the hustle of the holidays. Check out the full line of fidget toys online. Happy Holidays!