Finding the right toys for your child with special needs can be a challenge. Today’s toys can sometimes overload a child with too much stimuli; while others can actually help improve motor skills, auditory skills, socialization and more. Knowing the difference can turn a good gift in to a great one.

Dr. Smita Mehta is a professor of special education at the University of North Texas and a collaborator with ACES partner, UNT Kristin Farmer Autism Center. Dr. Mehta has produced a helpful gift giving guide as part of “Safe Toys and Gifts Month” initiative.

Included in the article are three helpful tips for selecting a special toy for that special loved one.

1. Gift givers should look for toys that can help turn the child’s developmental challenges into strengths.
2. Many everyday play items, sometimes with small modifications, can help also work well for kids with special needs.
3. What is done with gifts afterward can be just as important as which toy is selected.

For more tips and insight read the full article here: UNT expert gives advice for buying toys for children with special needs.