Our neurodivergent child is sensory-seeking and loves soft toys—cuddling, stretching, and flapping them around—but sensory toys can be expensive, and finding the right one that truly suits them can be a costly trial-and-error process.
The Affordable Alternative
An often-overlooked option? Dog toys. They come in a huge range of shapes, sizes and textures, many with multisensory features. They can squeak, crinkle, crunch, squish and rattle. Some even offer resistance for pulling or stretching, which can be deeply regulating for sensory-seeking children.
Choosing the Right Toy
As with any toy, it’s important to choose what feels right for your child and supervise use where needed. Softness, durability and safe materials are key — especially if your child mouths or chews toys.
Sometimes the most effective sensory tools are found in the most unlikely places, proving that you don’t always need to spend a lot to meet your child’s sensory needs.