What Every Parent and Therapist Should Know
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether there’s a real difference between regular toys and sensory toys – you’re not alone. At a glance, both seem to serve the same purpose: play and enjoyment. But dig a little deeper, and the differences become meaningful, especially for children with sensory processing needs.
In this blog, we’ll explore what makes a toy a sensory toy, how it supports development differently than traditional toys, and how you can choose what’s right for the children you care for. Whether you’re a therapist, a parent, or someone caring for a child with extra needs, this one’s for you.
What Are Traditional Toys?
Traditional toys are the ones we all grew up with: dolls, LEGO sets, action figures, plush animals, puzzles, and more. These toys are designed primarily for entertainment, imagination, and social interaction.
Benefits of traditional toys include:
- Creative play and storytelling
- Social bonding and turn-taking
- Problem-solving and logic building (think puzzles or building blocks)
They’re fantastic for general development – and kids love them! But they’re not typically built with sensory input in mind.
What Are Sensory Toys?
Sensory toys are intentionally designed to stimulate one or more of the senses: touch, sight, sound, movement, taste, or smell. They’re often used in therapy and support plans for children with autism, ADHD, anxiety, or sensory processing disorder (SPD), but they’re also helpful at home for a wide range of kids.
Examples of sensory toys you can find at Sensory Beez:
- Tactile: Wrist Band Squishy, Weighted Plushies, Fidget Packs
- Visual: Galaxy Projector, Fiber Optic Lights, Glow Star Kits
- Vestibular: Arch Swings, Crash Mats, Spinning Chairs
- Proprioceptive: Body Socks, Weighted Blankets, Trampolines
These aren’t just toys – they’re sensory tools for calming, focusing, and supporting emotional regulation.
Key Differences: Toys vs Sensory Toys
| Feature | Traditional Toys | Sensory Toys |
| Purpose | Entertainment, imagination | Sensory regulation, development |
| Audience | General population | Often children with sensory needs |
| Design | Broad appeal | Targeted to specific sensory input |
| Therapeutic Value | Moderate | High (often used in therapy) |
| Materials | Plastic, fabric | Often include textures, weights, or resistance |
Why the Difference Matters (Especially in Therapy)
Let’s say you’re supporting a child who struggles with focus and self-regulation. A regular toy might be a fun distraction, but a sensory tool could offer the calming input they need to get grounded.
From a professional perspective:
Therapists often use sensory toys to reach therapy goals – not just to entertain. These tools support body awareness, motor planning, attention, and emotional regulation.
What About Parents & Carers?
You don’t need a diagnosis to introduce sensory toys at home. Many children – whether neurotypical or not – benefit from having sensory tools they can reach for during moments of stress, boredom, or restlessness.
For example:
- A child who fidgets constantly might find calm with a Wristband Squishy.
- A child who finds it hard to wind down before bed might love a Weighted Blanket or Galaxy Projector.
- For active kids stuck indoors, the Arch Swing or Crash Mat can help burn energy in a safe way.
Adding just one or two sensory tools can have a surprisingly positive impact.
When to Choose One Over the Other
There’s no need to choose one instead of the other. Instead, think of traditional toys and sensory toys as serving different needs:
- Traditional toys = imagination, roleplay, creativity
- Sensory toys = calm, focus, regulation
Some signs it may be time to add sensory tools:
- Your child seems constantly on edge or overwhelmed
- They’re frequently seeking movement or pressure (e.g. jumping, spinning)
- They struggle with transitions like bedtime or school drop-off
Practical Tips for Home or Clinic
- Start Small: 2–3 tools that match your child’s needs are enough to begin.
- Set Up a Calm Space: A corner with a soft mat, some glow stars, and a body sock can make a big difference.
- Observe & Rotate: Watch how your child responds to different tools and switch them out regularly to keep things engaging.
- Partner with Professionals: Your child’s OT or paediatrician can offer helpful suggestions for which tools to prioritise.
Sensory Beez Picks for Your Toolkit
Here are a few proven favourites from our shop:
- Arch Swing → Gentle vestibular input for emotional balance
- Crash Mat → Great for movement seekers and safe play
- Wristband Squishy → Small and silent for school or outings
- Galaxy Projector → Creates a calming atmosphere at night
- Glow Star Kit → A soft and magical way to ease into sleep
- Body Sock → Provides calming resistance and sensory input
- Weighted Blanket → For restful sleep and comfort
🛒 View All Sensory Beez Products
FAQ: Toys vs Sensory Toys
Q: Do all kids need sensory toys?
A: Not necessarily – but many children benefit from them, especially during moments of stress, overwhelm, or transition.
Q: Can I mix sensory toys into everyday play?
A: Absolutely! Sensory toys blend beautifully with playtime and help kids learn to self-regulate while having fun.
Q: Are these tools just for kids with special needs?
A: No – while they’re often used in therapy, sensory toys can support any child’s wellbeing.
Q: Are Sensory Beez toys NDIS-fundable?
A: Yes. Most of our tools are claimable. Reach out if you need help navigating the process!
Q: How do I know which toy is right?
A: Pay attention to what your child seeks – movement, pressure, visuals — and choose accordingly. Or speak with an OT for guidance.
Final Thoughts from Sensory Beez
Whether you’re helping a child manage big emotions or simply want to make your home more sensory-friendly, understanding the role of sensory toys can be a game changer. These tools aren’t a magic fix, but when chosen thoughtfully, they can make everyday life a little calmer, more focused, and a lot more fun.
At Sensory Beez, we’re proud to support Aussie families, therapists, and educators in building joyful, regulated spaces. If you need help getting started – just reach out. We love helping you find the tools that really make a difference.
🛒 Start Building Your Sensory Toolkit
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for general guidance and inspiration only. Sensory Beez does not provide medical or therapeutic advice. For personalised recommendations, please consult with your occupational therapist, paediatrician, or healthcare provider. Always use sensory equipment under appropriate supervision and according to safety guidelines.
