One of the ways to help autistic children adapt is through behavioral and physical therapy.
Dr. Keili Mistovich, a board certified pediatrician, says she recommends physical therapy for children struggling with gross motor development skills. She also says it helps teach them how to use their muscles properly.
However, “one of the things that parents have a hard time with is they go to the physical therapy office, they teach them all of these exercises… And then parents are supposed to go and reproduce this at home, with no tools, or space to do the work,” said Dr. Mistovich.
As a pediatrician Mistovich recommends play kits like Figgy to help bridge the gap.
“I think one of the great benefits of the Figgy is it allows parents to have things that they can use to practice all of those exercises on. And kids who are on the autism spectrum need toys that feel safe to them. They need something that is predictable, and is calming to them.”
She went on to say, “often when we're looking for toys for kids with special needs and kids on the spectrum to play with, they benefit more from things that don't provide too much stimulation, they want things that are simple, with calming colors to them like Figgy.”
A child’s overall environment is also key to success, “these environments really can be altered to make it so that space is something that they're able to be in without it being scary and overwhelming- making them want to withdraw” she said.
Dr. Mostivich also points out it’s best to stay away from bright colors and loud noise, which often prove to be too much for kids on the spectrum. Bright visuals, and certain sounds can cause sensory overload.
“For a child on the autism spectrum that (calming colors, and quiet toys) can make all the difference in the world, and how they're able to interact with their toys, be able to play and learn, and do these activities well.”
To learn more about playtime with children on the autism spectrum, click here.
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