Some children communicate in ways beyond spoken words, whether due to autism, nonverbal autism, or other developmental differences. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t eager to play, learn, and connect with others. With the right toys, you can encourage self-expression, nurture social interactions, and create joyful, meaningful play experiences.
Here are some of the best toys designed to support nonverbal children in expressing themselves and engaging with the world around them.
Key Takeaways
- Tablets with communication apps let nonverbal kids share thoughts, build language skills, and learn cause and effect naturally.
- Flash cards, talking toys, and spinners teach simple words, actions, social skills, and help kids understand cause and effect.
- Sensory toys and trampolines support motor skills, give calming input, and help kids focus, play, and feel more comfortable.
- Agencies like Friends & Family Home Care offer support beyond toys through in-home care and services for children with autism or special needs.
Tablets with Communication Apps
A tablet with a communication app (also called AAC apps) is one of the best toys for nonverbal children. These apps help kids tap pictures or words, and the tablet speaks for them. It’s great for language development because kids can share their thoughts, needs, and feelings.
These tools work well for kids with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), because they can be adjusted to match each child’s level.
Tablets are also helpful for teaching cause and effect and improving problem-solving.
Flash Cards with Sounds and Textures
Flash cards are simple but powerful learning toys. Some are made for nonverbal children and include bright pictures, auditory buttons, and different textures to touch.
When a child presses a button, they hear the word spoken. This helps with verbal communication and gives useful sensory input.
These educational toys also support fine motor skills and help autistic children understand daily actions or social skills.
Dimpl Sensory Toys
Dimpl toys have soft, colorful bubbles made from silicone that kids can press in and out. These are more than just fun fidget toys. They give kids sensory experiences that help with sensory processing and fine motor skills.
These sensory toys are calming and easy to use, and can be great for travel.
Sensory Mats with Textures
Sensory mats are large mats with different textures for kids to touch or walk on. They encourage movement like crawling or jumping, which supports motor skills.
These toys are especially helpful for children who have sensory issues and need more sensory input to feel calm or focused. Playing on mats also gives kids chances to play with others and build communication skills.
Fidget and Spin Toys
Fidget toys like spinners and squishy balls are great for helping kids stay calm and focused, especially those with autism, ADHD, or other special needs.
These toys meet sensory needs by letting kids release energy in a safe way, which helps them take part in child development activities like playtime, therapy, and learning.
Some fidget toys also double as learning toys.
For example, spin-and-learn toys light up or make sounds when touched. These show nonverbal children how their actions lead to a result—a key step in learning cause and effect.
This type of sensory play supports problem-solving, verbal communication, and fine motor skills, and is often used in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy to help kids engage and connect.
Stuffed Animals That “Talk”
A soft stuffed animal that says words when squeezed can help nonverbal children learn simple greetings or actions. These great toys feel good to touch (many are squishy) and give auditory feedback when kids press a button. This can help connect words with actions.
For example, if the toy says “Can I have a hug?” when squeezed, the child may learn what a hug is and how to ask for one. These toys are also good for teaching social skills like sharing and empathy.
Light-Up Toys with Music
Some educational toys light up and play music when touched. These types of toys teach cause and effect and keep nonverbal children engaged.
Many of these toys can be purchased on Amazon and offer settings for sound, lights, and volume so you can adjust them to your child’s needs.
Support Your Child Beyond Playtime
At Friends & Family Home Care, we know how the right toys can help nonverbal children express themselves, build communication skills, and enjoy meaningful playtime. But toys are just the start.
We offer support for families through services like in-home pediatric care and help for children with ASD or other special needs.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to find out how we can support your family.
