Best Toys for 6-Year-Old Children with Autism: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding Autism and Play at Age 6

For 6-year-old children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), toys aren’t just about entertainment—they’re valuable tools for development, communication, sensory regulation, and connection. While every autistic child has unique strengths, interests, and challenges, thoughtfully selected toys can make a significant positive impact on their development and quality of life.

Dr. Amanda Gulsrud, Clinical Director at the UCLA Center for Autism Research and Treatment, notes: “Play is the primary way children learn about their world. For children with autism, the right toys can bridge communication gaps, provide sensory regulation, build skills, and create opportunities for connection.”

At age 6, children with autism are often:

• Developing more complex language and communication skills
• Building fine and gross motor abilities
• Expanding special interests
• Learning to navigate social interactions
• Developing greater self-regulation strategies
• Beginning to engage in more symbolic play

This guide will help you select toys that support these developmental areas while respecting and celebrating your child’s unique autism journey.

Key Considerations When Choosing Toys

Focus on Interests, Not Age Labels

Many autistic children have intense interests that may not align with typical age recommendations. Dr. Barry Prizant, author of “Uniquely Human,” explains: “Following a child’s passionate interests is one of the most effective ways to engage them and build upon their natural motivations.”

When selecting toys:

• Prioritize your child’s specific interests over age labels
• Look for toys that can grow with your child’s abilities
• Consider developmental goals rather than chronological age

Sensory Considerations

Sensory sensitivities are common in autism, and vary widely between individuals. Consider your child’s unique sensory profile:

• Sensory-seeking children may benefit from toys with interesting textures, lights, sounds, or movement
• Sensory-avoiding children might prefer toys with predictable, controllable, or reduced sensory input
• Visual processors often engage well with visually stimulating toys
• Tactile learners may prefer toys with interesting textures and physical manipulation

Support for Regulation

Many 6-year-olds with autism benefit from toys that help with emotional regulation:

• Toys that provide deep pressure or proprioceptive input
• Items that support transitions between activities
• Fidgets that help with focus and calm
• Materials that can be used during high-stress periods

Communication Opportunities

Look for toys that naturally encourage communication:

• Games requiring simple turn-taking
• Toys that motivate requesting
• Activities that promote joint attention
• Options that can incorporate visual supports

Best Types of Toys for 6-Year-Olds with Autism

Sensory Toys

Sensory toys provide controlled sensory experiences that can help with regulation, focus, and sensory processing.

Recommended Options:

1. Sensory Bins
   • Top Pick: Kinetic Sand Sandbox Set ($25)
   • Benefits: Provides tactile stimulation without mess, can be themed to special interests
   • Features: Non-sticky formula, holds shape when molded, never dries out
   • Developmental Support: Fine motor skills, tactile processing, imaginative play
   • Considerations: Monitor for mouthing behaviors
2. Light-Up Toys
   • Top Pick: Sensory LED Light Tubes Set ($35)
   • Benefits: Visual stimulation, calm-inducing light patterns
   • Features: Durable acrylic tubes with LED lights, timer function, multiple light patterns
   • Developmental Support: Visual tracking, cause-and-effect understanding
   • Considerations: Battery operated, some children may become overstimulated
3. Fidget Toys
   • Top Pick: Zuru Tangle Therapy ($12)
   • Benefits: Portable self-regulation tool, quiet operation
   • Features: Segmented design, smooth movement, textured sections
   • Developmental Support: Fine motor skills, self-regulation, focus
   • Considerations: Small parts in some versions, choose age-appropriate models
4. Sensory Putty
   • Top Pick: Therapy Putty Set ($18)
   • Benefits: Different resistances for varied sensory experiences
   • Features: Non-toxic, scented options, can hide small objects inside for discovery
   • Developmental Support: Hand strength, fine motor control, tactile processing
   • Considerations: Not for children who mouth objects, can stain fabrics
5. Weighted Products
   • Top Pick: Harkla Kids Weighted Lap Pad ($40)
   • Benefits: Provides calming deep pressure input
   • Features: Removable, washable cover, even weight distribution, child-friendly design
   • Developmental Support: Self-regulation, body awareness, focus
   • Considerations: Should not exceed 10% of child’s body weight

Special Interest Support Toys

Many children with autism have focused interests that can serve as powerful motivators for learning and engagement.

Recommended Options:

1. Themed Collection Sets
   • Top Pick: National Geographic Rock Collection Kit ($25)
   • Benefits: Supports categorization, builds knowledge in areas of interest
   • Features: Genuine specimens, identification guide, storage container
   • Developmental Support: Classification skills, vocabulary building, scientific concepts
   • Considerations: Choose based on your child’s specific interests (trains, dinosaurs, space, etc.)
2. Special Interest Books
   • Top Pick: DK Encyclopedia series related to child’s interest ($15-25)
   • Benefits: Builds knowledge depth, supports literacy
   • Features: Highly visual format, factual information, organized layout
   • Developmental Support: Reading motivation, vocabulary, knowledge building
   • Considerations: Match reading level appropriately or use as shared reading
3. Interest-Specific Figures
   • Top Pick: Schleich Animal Figures ($10-15 each)
   • Benefits: Accurate representations, durable construction
   • Features: Realistic details, appropriate size for handling
   • Developmental Support: Vocabulary, imaginative play, categorization
   • Considerations: Can be collected over time to build interest-based set
4. Themed Construction Sets
   • Top Pick: LEGO Sets aligned with interests ($30-100)
   • Benefits: Combines special interest with building skills
   • Features: Clear instructions, familiar characters or concepts
   • Developmental Support: Fine motor skills, following directions, spatial reasoning
   • Considerations: Choose appropriate piece size and complexity

Visual-Spatial Toys

Many autistic children excel with visual-spatial processing and benefit from toys that utilize this strength.

Recommended Options:

1. Pattern Blocks and Boards
   • Top Pick: Melissa & Doug Pattern Blocks ($20)
   • Benefits: Open-ended or structured visual activity
   • Features: Wooden blocks, pattern cards, storage case
   • Developmental Support: Visual discrimination, spatial reasoning, fine motor skills
   • Considerations: Start with simpler patterns if needed
2. Magnetic Building Tiles
   • Top Pick: PicassoTiles 100-piece Set ($60)
   • Benefits: Three-dimensional construction with satisfying magnetic connection
   • Features: Translucent colors, strong magnets, compatible with similar brands
   • Developmental Support: Spatial concepts, creativity, engineering principles
   • Considerations: More expensive than some options, but highly durable
3. Visual Perceptual Games
   • Top Pick: Perplexus Original Maze Game ($25)
   • Benefits: Self-contained challenge with clear visual feedback
   • Features: Three-dimensional maze inside transparent sphere
   • Developmental Support: Visual tracking, fine motor planning, persistence
   • Considerations: Requires some initial help to understand concept
4. Cause-and-Effect Visual Toys
   • Top Pick: Thames & Kosmos Gravity Maze ($40)
   • Benefits: Predictable outcomes, visual problem-solving
   • Features: Marble run with challenge cards of increasing difficulty
   • Developmental Support: Planning skills, understanding physical concepts
   • Considerations: Small marbles require supervision

Communication and Social Skills Toys

Toys that naturally encourage interaction can support communication development at a comfortable pace.

Recommended Options:

1. Modified Board Games
   • Top Pick: Sequence for Kids ($16)
   • Benefits: Structured turn-taking, clear visual layout
   • Features: Picture cards matching board spaces, straightforward gameplay
   • Developmental Support: Waiting skills, following rules, simple strategy
   • Considerations: May need to modify rules initially for success
2. Cooperative Games
   • Top Pick: Peaceable Kingdom Hoot Owl Hoot ($16)
   • Benefits: No competition, players work together
   • Features: Color-matching mechanics, collaborative goal
   • Developmental Support: Joint problem-solving, shared attention
   • Considerations: Adult facilitation helpful initially
3. Social Stories Games
   • Top Pick: Social Skills Board Game ($30)
   • Benefits: Practices social scenarios in low-pressure format
   • Features: Visual situation cards, choice-based responses
   • Developmental Support: Conversation skills, perspective-taking
   • Considerations: Best used with supportive adult guidance
4. Communication Builder Toys
   • Top Pick: Building Block Ice Cream Set ($25)
   • Benefits: Creates natural opportunities for requesting and commenting
   • Features: Multiple components needed to complete activity
   • Developmental Support: Requesting language, joint attention
   • Considerations: Adult facilitation helps maximize communication opportunities

Emotional Regulation Supports

Toys that help identify and manage emotions can be particularly beneficial.

Recommended Options:

1. Emotion Expression Tools
   • Top Pick: Feelings Flipbook ($15)
   • Benefits: Visual representation of emotions
   • Features: Illustrations of facial expressions, emotion words
   • Developmental Support: Emotional vocabulary, self-awareness
   • Considerations: Works well as part of a calm-down corner
2. Sensory Regulation Tools
   • Top Pick: Calming Sensory Bottle Set ($30)
   • Benefits: Visual focus for calming, predictable movement
   • Features: Sealed bottles with various floating elements, timer-like function
   • Developmental Support: Self-regulation, transition management
   • Considerations: Can make DIY versions with adult supervision
3. Emotion-Processing Toys
   • Top Pick: Kimochis Feeling Pillows ($50)
   • Benefits: Tactile representation of emotions
   • Features: Different facial expressions, textured materials
   • Developmental Support: Emotional recognition, expression skills
   • Considerations: Best used with supportive conversation

Motor Skills Development Toys

Physical development toys can help with coordination challenges common in autism.

Recommended Options:

1. Fine Motor Skill Builders
   • Top Pick: Learning Resources Helping Hands Fine Motor Tool Set ($15)
   • Benefits: Strengthens hand muscles for writing and daily skills
   • Features: Tweezers, eyedroppers, scoops designed for small hands
   • Developmental Support: Pre-writing skills, tool use, hand strength
   • Considerations: Use with various materials (rice, beans, water) for extended play
2. Gross Motor Development
   • Top Pick: Gonge Riverstones ($55)
   • Benefits: Balance and coordination in predictable steps
   • Features: Different sizes and heights, non-slip surface
   • Developmental Support: Balance, motor planning, confidence
   • Considerations: Use indoors or outdoors, need some floor space
3. Bilateral Coordination Toys
   • Top Pick: Lakeshore Lacing Beads ($20)
   • Benefits: Activities requiring both hands working together
   • Features: Various shapes, thick laces with rigid ends
   • Developmental Support: Hand coordination, pattern creation, focus
   • Considerations: Start with larger beads if fine motor challenges exist
4. Handwriting Preparation Tools
   • Top Pick: Kwik Stix Solid Tempera Paint Sticks ($12)
   • Benefits: Art creation without fine motor demands of regular painting
   • Features: No-mess, quick-drying, vibrant colors
   • Developmental Support: Pre-writing movements, creativity, color exploration
   • Considerations: Works on multiple surfaces, minimal setup/cleanup

Executive Function Support Toys

Games and activities that develop organizational and planning skills.

Recommended Options:

1. Sequential Processing Games
   • Top Pick: Smart Games IQ Steps ($15)
   • Benefits: Clear, progressive challenges
   • Features: Self-contained puzzle with challenge cards
   • Developmental Support: Planning, problem-solving, persistence
   • Considerations: Start with easiest challenges to build confidence
2. Time Management Tools
   • Top Pick: Time Timer ($30)
   • Benefits: Visual representation of time passing
   • Features: Red disk disappears as time elapses, optional audible signal
   • Developmental Support: Time awareness, transition preparation
   • Considerations: Helps with task completion and transitions
3. Multi-Step Activity Sets
   • Top Pick: Melissa & Doug Slice and Bake Cookie Set ($20)
   • Benefits: Practice following sequences
   • Features: Multiple components with clear sequence
   • Developmental Support: Following steps, task completion
   • Considerations: Wooden pieces more durable than plastic alternatives

Adapting Toys for Individual Needs

Visual Supports

Many children with autism benefit from visual clarity and structure with toys:

1. Add visual schedules to multi-step toys
2. Color-code components for easier sorting
3. Use picture labels on storage containers
4. Create visual boundaries for play spaces with tape or placemats
5. Photograph finished projects to provide visual goals

Sensory Modifications

Adapt toys to match your child’s sensory preferences:

1. Reduce auditory input by removing batteries or covering speakers
2. Add textured tape to handles for tactile input
3. Use bins or trays to contain sensory materials
4. Adjust lighting when using visual toys
5. Consider weighted options for children seeking proprioceptive input

Simplification Strategies

For children who become overwhelmed:

1. Offer fewer pieces initially
2. Create clear start/finish indicators
3. Establish routines around toy use
4. Provide models of completed projects
5. Break down complex toys into manageable steps

Creating Supportive Play Environments

Physical Space Considerations

The environment can significantly impact successful play experiences:

1. Minimize distractions in the play area
2. Create clear boundaries for different activities
3. Consider sensory elements like lighting and acoustics
4. Establish organization systems accessible to your child
5. Create comfortable seating options (floor cushions, chairs, therapy balls)

Supporting Independent Play

Many autistic children benefit from structure to develop independent play skills:

1. Use visual timers to indicate play duration
2. Create play activity boxes with all needed materials
3. Develop visual sequences for multi-step activities
4. Start with brief periods of independent play
5. Gradually increase complexity as skills develop

Facilitating Social Play

When introducing social elements:

1. Begin with parallel play before expecting interactive play
2. Use toys with clear turn-taking elements
3. Provide scripts or visual supports for social exchanges
4. Create defined roles for each participant
5. Start with brief, successful interactions before expanding

Technology and Screen-Based Options

Digital tools can offer unique benefits for many autistic children, though balance is important.

Educational Apps

Recommended Options:

1. Social Skills Apps
   • Top Pick: Social Express ($10 monthly subscription)
   • Benefits: Animated social scenarios with problem-solving
   • Features: Progressive lessons, interactive choices
   • Developmental Support: Perspective taking, social understanding
   • Considerations: Best used with adult discussion
2. Special Interest Learning
   • Top Pick: Khan Academy Kids (Free)
   • Benefits: Adapts to skill level, covers multiple subjects
   • Features: Engaging characters, progress tracking
   • Developmental Support: Academic concepts, independent learning
   • Considerations: Set time limits appropriate for your child
3. Communication Support
   • Top Pick: LetMeTalk AAC (Free)
   • Benefits: Supports non-verbal or partially verbal children
   • Features: Customizable image-based communication
   • Developmental Support: Expressive communication, vocabulary
   • Considerations: Requires consistent implementation across environments

Healthy Technology Boundaries

While technology can be beneficial:

1. Establish clear time limits
2. Balance screen time with physical activity
3. Use visual timers for transitions
4. Select programs with clear endings
5. Monitor for signs of overstimulation

Working with Therapeutic Goals

Many 6-year-olds with autism receive various therapies. Toys can support these therapeutic approaches.

Supporting Speech Therapy Goals

Select toys that naturally encourage:

• Requesting favorite items
• Commenting on actions
• Following directions
• Building vocabulary
• Turn-taking communication

Reinforcing Occupational Therapy Goals

Look for toys that develop:

• Fine motor coordination
• Sensory processing
• Self-help skills
• Motor planning
• Visual perception

Enhancing Behavioral Therapy Objectives

Choose toys that help practice:

• Waiting and taking turns
• Transitioning between activities
• Following multi-step directions
• Self-monitoring
• Independent task completion

Budget-Friendly Options

Quality autism-supporting toys don’t have to break the bank.

Repurposing Household Items

Create effective sensory and developmental toys using:

• Plastic containers with rice or beans for sensory bins
• Flashlights with colored cellophane for visual tracking
• Homemade playdough with different scents and textures
• PVC pipe pieces for construction and water play
• Cardboard boxes for creative play and motor planning

Low-Cost Commercial Options

Affordable store-bought alternatives:

• Bubble wrap for sensory input ($3)
• Playing cards for sorting and matching ($2)
• Plastic measuring cups for water play ($5)
• Masking tape for creating floor paths ($4)
• Ping pong balls and kitchen items for fine motor play ($3)

Resource Sharing

Consider:

• Toy lending libraries in many communities
• Parent swap groups for rotating toys
• Second-hand stores with regular sanitizing
• School lending programs
• Online marketplace finds

Toy Storage and Organization

Effective storage systems help children with autism locate, use, and return toys independently.

Visual Organization Systems

1. Picture labels on bins and shelves
2. Color-coded categories for different toy types
3. Clear containers to see contents
4. Consistent locations for each toy category
5. Visual inventories of container contents

Creating Independent Access

1. Place toys at child-accessible heights
2. Use open shelving when appropriate
3. Implement simple organization systems
4. Create visual routines for cleanup
5. Rotate toys to prevent overwhelm

Special Considerations

Mouthing Behaviors

For children who continue to mouth objects:

• Select toys specifically rated for oral exploration
• Consider food-grade silicone options
• Avoid toys with small detachable parts
• Provide designated “mouth toys” like chewelry
• Regularly sanitize frequently mouthed items

Rigidity Around Toys

Some children with autism develop fixed play patterns:

• Gently expand play through parallel modeling
• Respect the comfort of predictable play
• Introduce small variations gradually
• Honor the function the rigidity serves
• Consult occupational therapists for specific strategies

Safety Concerns

Important safety considerations:

• Monitor for small parts that could be mouthed
• Assess toys for durability if used in repetitive ways
• Secure heavy furniture if climbing is a concern
• Consider door alarms if elopement is an issue
• Regularly inspect toys for damage

Building a Balanced Toy Collection

Core Categories to Include

A well-rounded toy collection for a 6-year-old with autism might include:

• 2-3 sensory regulation toys
• 1-2 special interest-based toys
• 1-2 fine motor development activities
• 1 gross motor activity
• 1 visual-spatial toy
• 1 communication-encouraging toy
• 1-2 independent play options
• 1 technology option (if appropriate)

Rotation Systems

To maintain interest and manage space:

• Store some toys out of sight
• Rotate available toys monthly
• Reintroduce toys with new components
• Observe which toys genuinely engage
• Remove toys that cause stress or are ignored

Celebrating Progress and Preferences

Respecting Authentic Interests

Child development expert Dr. Barry Prizant emphasizes: “When we respect autistic children’s passionate interests rather than trying to extinguish them, we honor their intrinsic motivation and build trust.”

Ways to support authentic engagement:

• Follow your child’s lead in play choices
• Expand upon their demonstrated interests
• Value all forms of play and engagement
• Recognize progress in their terms
• Celebrate the joy they find in their preferred activities

Measuring Success Differently

Success with toys might look like:

• Increased engagement time
• Novel use of familiar materials
• Sharing attention briefly
• Returning to a previously challenging toy
• Showing pleasure during play

Conclusion: Beyond the Toy Itself

The most important element in toy selection for children with autism isn’t the specific toy—it’s the thoughtful consideration of the individual child’s needs, interests, and development. The best toy is one that creates a successful play experience where your child feels competent, engaged, and understood.

By focusing on your child’s strengths, considering their challenges, and respecting their authentic preferences, you can select toys that truly support their development while honoring who they are. Remember that play should, above all, be a positive experience that builds connection, confidence, and skills.

As autism advocate Dr. Stephen Shore notes: “If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.” This wisdom applies equally to toy selection—what works brilliantly for one child may not work for another. Trust your knowledge of your child, observe their responses, adapt as needed, and celebrate the unique way they interact with their world.

This guide was developed in consultation with occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and parents of children with autism. Information was last updated in May 2025.