Ideas for Autistic Handmade items...

[Healthy Skeptic]

I want to make some things for a friend's son. He is 9 and has autism.

I am going to get some ballons and fill them with sand, rice and beans.

Any other ideas?

[LauraReaux]

You could make him a weighted lap pad to help calm him when doing work. For something more like a toy for him, I've seen these quite a bit before... just make sure before giving him this, that he doesn't put things into his mouth. Another fun idea for him, if he uses the PECS system (picture cards), could be a little book to put his cards into when he goes places. Trips, or just every day outtings, to insert his cards to see where they are stopping next. I hope those help you!

[Healthy Skeptic]

thanks so much

[LauraReaux]

You're welcome! I would love to see what you ended up making.

[MidgeMommy]

Ask his mom a little bit more about what he likes, and then harass this site;

http://www.abilitations.com/

Different kids have different sensory likes and dislikes, and while MOST autistic kids like deep pressure, not ALL do. Plus, that site is like my favorite, even for me-toys!

[wytchywoman]

Crash pads are very popular with auties and aspies, and can be pretty easy to make. Just sew two sheets ( or even large beach towels ) together and stuff with foam padding, lots of it, and then sew it shut. You might even want to make a cover for it that can be removed and washed if you are feeling very industrious.