www.ExploringChild.com

Over 6.2 million children live with disabilities, accounting for 13.2% of the child population. Millions of parents, grandparents, other family members and caregivers of children with Special Needs struggle to find the best play and educational products for them.

... Every day, parents ask professionals for advice on buying toys for their children. Often, shoppers are wary of buying toys for Special Needs children. However, selecting a toy for any child begins with two steps: first, learning what the child is interested in, and second, assessing his or her skill level.

 

We recommend reviewing the Special Needs categories to find a great products designed to excite, engage and enthrall your child.

 

Although some toys are designed or modified for Special Needs children, specialized toys are not always necessary. Many toys have multiple uses and special-needs children learn through the process of playing. Consult with your pediatrician or education specialist about your child's specific needs.

 

Please keep in mind that age ranges indicated for each toy are assigned by the manufacture based on a child with no Special Needs. You'll need to choose toys for children with special needs based on their play stages, rather than ages. All children reach specific stages of learning that are reflected in how they play with their toys: exploration (examination of the toy through touch, sight, and sound), discovery (realization of the toy’s uses), and interaction (creative, imaginative use of the toy).

 

From time to time, you may see a review of parents, teachers or caregivers who had purchased the toy and can give you a more "hands-on" feeling about the toy and the enjoyment it provided to the child.