Why are Fidget Toys and Sensory items important for people with an Autism diagnosis?

Some autistic people find it difficult to focus or feel emotionally regulated unless parts of their brain can be engaged in a particular way. Some autistic people have a particular strength for music and increasing access to items of special interest may support their mental health.

A person with an autism diagnosis is very likely to have neurodevelopmental differences that result in them seeking or avoiding different types of sensory stimulation.

At the Autism Shop, we try to provide products to support all eight sensory systems, respecting that every autistic person is unique. For example, some of our customers feel calmer at high school with some of our magnetic putty in their pocket to discretely fiddle with whilst they listen to their teachers, and some of our adult customers like the repetitive touch available from our anxiety ring. Some of our younger customers are noise sensitive and have benefited from noise reduction earplugs.

Our assistive technology products help support emotional regulation too, with products such as massage machines for customers who need deep pressure input, and those customers who experience interoceptive difficulties may benefit from using a range of timers to remind them to drink sufficient water or take their medication on time.