Most adults can remember a time when a stuffed animal brought them comfort and joy as a child. While many of us grow out of this phase, research suggests that keeping a stuffed animal, especially a weighted one, can provide substantial benefits to children, adolescents, and even adults on the autism spectrum.
Research suggests that stuffed animals can be an effective sensory tool that provides comfort and emotional solace for autistic individuals. These stuffed animals reduce anxiety and stress in overwhelming situations by providing stability and predictability. Children and adults who struggle with changes in routine can also benefit from having a stuffed animal help them through transitions or turbulent times. The familiar texture and smell can make changes or challenging situations more manageable.
Another benefit of stuffed animals is that they can fulfill the need for repetitive behaviors.
The sensation of squeezing a plushie or feeling its weight can help alleviate sensory overload symptoms, much like deep-pressure therapy. Deep-pressure therapy involves regulating sensory input through weight and pressure.
For younger children, plush toys offer the additional benefit of helping autistic children communicate with others through role play. These scenarios can also help younger autistic children with emotional regulation and building social skills.
Unfortunately, many older autistic individuals shy away from utilizing stuffed animals as regulatory tools because of the social stigma they may face from doing so. It’s important to note that it’s healthy for autistic adults to self-regulate with small stuffed animals or comfort items. During stressful situations, it’s recommended that autistic adults consider small bean bags, worry stones, small fidget toys, thinking putty, or soft textured pocket items to help them cope with the challenges of life.
Do You Have a Loved One on the Spectrum?
Do you have a younger loved one who’s on the autism spectrum? If so, then it’s worth considering helping them find their perfect self-regulation tools. For some, that may mean finding the perfect plush, and for others, it could mean discovering the ideal pocket rock.
One of the best things you can do for a younger autistic loved one is to continue to help support them as best you can while also connecting them with the resources they need to thrive. Here at the Nevada Autism Center, our primary goal is to help empower young autistic individuals to live out bright futures. We facilitate this by implementing evidence-backed ABA therapy, proactively working to improve your child’s social skills, offering comprehensive family guidance, providing model classrooms as opportunities for growth, and working on enhancing adaptive skills. Our facility also hosts summer camps that are designed to promote school readiness and autonomy.
Our facility currently accepts a wide variety of commercial insurance plans, including BlueCross BlueShield, Aetna, United HealthCare, Health Plan of Nevada, and more.
Get started on our enrollment process now by filling out our online form. You can also contact our office directly with any questions at (702) 660-2005.
