Toys and dolls provide opportunities for children, including those with special needs to learn through play, but also provide support for emotional and social skills.
According to the Pacer Center’s “Toys Universal Tools for Learning, Communication and Inclusion for Children with Disabilities,” “toys are not only a wonderful educational tool, but they can provide a unique opportunity for communication, self expression, and, especially, inclusion.”
If you are looking for a doll, toy or figure, whether it’s for sensory needs or general play, below are toys with inclusive aspects for kids with special needs.
JoJo the Weighted Doll
This weighted baby doll from Fun and Function provides a cuddly and calm friend for children 18 months and older, weighing 15 plus pounds. JoJo’s soft, 1.5-pound body features a bright color and simple design that appeals to everyone. Other weighted toy options are available including a teddy bear, lion and more. funandfunction.com
American Girl Doll
In 2020, the American Girl’s “Girl of the Year” doll was Joss Kendrick, who was born with the disability of congenital hearing loss. The popular doll company provides options for their dolls such as a wheelchair, a service dog vest, and arm crutches. There is also an option to order a doll with a hearing aid. Follow age ranges for purchases. Visit americangirl.com
Barbie
Barbie Fashionistas celebrate diversity with fashion dolls in a variety of body types. In 2023, Barbie collaborated with the National Down Syndrome Society to ensure the doll accurately represents a person with Down syndrome, according to Mattel’s news release. For ages 3 and older, families can get Fashionistas Barbie and Ken dolls with vitiligo, dolls that use a wheelchair or a prosthetic limb, a doll with hearing aids and a doll without hair. shop.mattel.com
Little People
Fisher-Price sells Josh and Mia and Barbie party sets. Both sets provide a figure using a wheelchair. The toys are for toddlers and preschool kids ages 18 months to 5 years. Check retail stores and Amazon to purchase.
Chloe the Comfort Cat
The cat weighs 2.5-pounds, perfect for providing a calming sense of security to children with sensory input needs. Its soft, floppy body can lay across your lap or shoulders for perfect snuggles. For ages 3 and older. fatbraintoys.com
SPIKE Silicone Fidget Play Gripper Toppers and Fij-It.
These silicone fidgets offers pencil Grippers, Toppers and Fij-it discs that help kids of all ages stay focused at school, home and work. These 100% silicone fidget toys are quiet, mess-free and can be sanitized for unlimited play. spiketoys.com
—Source National Parenting Product Awards