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Keep kids with ADHD happy with these educational and entertaining toys.
Purchasing toys can sometimes be challenging for parents of children with ADHD. We’ve been there, so we get it. We have to consider our children’s unique needs.
We’ve spent a lot of time researching the best toys for kids with ADHD and have come up with this list of 13 terrific options.
These toys help children focus and develop motor and educational skills, are age-appropriate, appeal to all the senses, and are safe and fun for kids with a wide range of interests and abilities.
Our kids with ADHD love them, and we hope yours will too. Read on to learn more.
Our Top Picks
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Lego and Duplo are good toys for kids with ADHD. Children love to create, and the methodical building of bricks is very therapeutic. It helps them focus and achieve, and they can create objects in a short space of time, which keeps them engaged.
Duplo is suitable for little ones from 18 months old, whereas Lego sets will appeal to kids over 3. This Duplo set comes in a colorful, sturdy box for storage.
Personal Experience
After purchasing this set of Duplo All-In-One-Box-of-Fun, I was delighted with the quality and creativity it offered for my little one. The colorful pieces, including a little man, dog, car, and various blocks, provided countless hours of imaginative play, and the set was perfect for improving my child's dexterity. My child especially enjoyed building different dog houses for the included little dog. The set comes with a sturdy and cute container, making it easy to store and organize the pieces.
This construction toy is different from the rest. Interlocking flower-shaped discs allow your child to create whatever they want — there’s no right or wrong. It will help a child focus, stimulate their imagination, and encourage coordination skills.
Boys and girls ages 5 and over will enjoy building Ferris wheels, towers, lightsabers, trees, cars, and more.
Personal Insight
I recently got my hands on these brain flakes and was pleasantly surprised by their sturdiness and versatility. The 12 vibrant colors and interlocking design make them perfect for building various structures, as well as using them for creative activities like game design or chemistry models. Even my teenagers enjoy playing with these flakes alongside the younger kids, making it a great toy for all ages to bond and explore their imaginations together.
Kids with ADHD love games but sometimes lose interest if the game drags on. This fast-paced card game is quick and easy and suitable for kids aged 4 years and over, although our 3-year-olds even enjoyed it.
The goal of the game is to correctly choose two cards that are of the same activity representing both the “should” and “should not.” The player then explains why the card belongs on “should” or “should not.” The person with the most matches wins.
This game helps with turn-taking skills, manners recognition, self-awareness, reasoning, and communication skills.
Community Review
Got this book as a resource to help my 7-year-old with ADHD, and it's been a useful tool for teaching important skills. The visuals and simple language make it easy for kids to understand, and it's especially helpful for those with autism. While some of the wording could be improved, the book's content is versatile and promotes positive concepts. I've used it for weekly conversations with my child, encouraging them to reflect on their experiences and progress. Even though it's designed for kids, some adults with autism may find it beneficial with a little guidance.
Let your kid’s imagination run wild with this soft sand that sticks to itself. It’s good for building castles, making sculptures, pretend beach play with smaller toys, or anything else your child can think of.
This sand is easy to clean up as it doesn’t stick to hands or clothes.
It’s also a good stress reliever, calming children as they run their hands through the squishy texture. This is ideal when they find themselves overstimulated or overwhelmed.
We really enjoy playing with Kinetic Sand alongside our children, as it’s great for bonding and can help calm overstimulated moms too.
The sand is suitable for kids (and adults!) ages 3 years and up.
Individual Opinion
I've recently discovered this amazing kinetic sand and I must say, it's been an absolute hit for both kids and adults in our household. This sand feels like the perfect beach sand - slightly moist, moldable, and it doesn't stick to you. The texture is oddly relaxing and soothing, making it a fantastic stress-reliever while also being a fun and creative activity for kids. With a lidded box and some simple mold toys, this sand has provided hours of entertainment and has become a popular playdate choice among our family and friends.
Roll the nine dice or less, look at the pictures that turn up, and create a story. This game is great for the imagination and can help a child in a fun way when they struggle with creative homework.
Although the manufacturer recommends these for kids aged 6 years and over, we found that even our young children, ages 3 and over, enjoyed playing with them.
This is the classic set, but you can also choose from a range of other themed sets geared to your child’s interests.
First-Hand Impression
These storytelling dice are a fantastic tool for sparking creativity and imagination in both children and adults alike. I purchased them for my granddaughter, and she quickly started coming up with countless stories. They're not just for personal use - they work great in a classroom setting too, helping kids of various age ranges enhance their writing skills. As an ESL teacher, I found these dice to be an excellent resource for connecting pictures to words and aiding in language learning. It's a simple yet effective concept that can be used in numerous ways, from solo play to group activities. These storytelling dice have quickly become a go-to game for us, and I can't wait to see what new stories my granddaughter and her friends create.
Available for Xbox and PC or purchased as an app, this video game is a firm favorite with kids and adults. It is loved by many children with ADHD, including our own. It encourages them to be imaginative and creative and focuses their brain on problem-solving and perseverance.
Players build with blocks and take part in adventures in a virtual world where the only limit is their imagination. Although it’s recommended for teens, many younger children find it fascinating. However, a parent should supervise children under 13 years and ensure the game isn’t connected to the internet or open chat groups.
Personal Experience
I absolutely love this Minecraft game for its ability to engage players of all ages, including my children and even my husband. The disc version has been especially beneficial for my autistic son, as it has improved his social interaction, speech, and self-esteem while teaching him about creativity, sharing, and building in a fun environment. The game offers different modes, such as Creative and Survival, providing varying levels of challenge and allowing players to build and explore their own worlds. I've even incorporated Minecraft into our homeschooling, using it as a creative and interactive way for my son to complete projects related to the subjects we're studying.
Contained within a clear plastic sphere are 22 feet of track and a small silver ball. The task is to move the ball through the 3D maze to the end position. Be careful though; if the ball falls off the track, you have to start again.
This toy challenges kids ages 5 years and over, but it’s not so complicated they can’t complete it. It’s good for a hyperactive child’s focus as they guide their body to move the ball and concentrate on where it’s going.
Personal Insight
I recently purchased this maze game for my 9-year-old, and to my surprise, even my 3-year-old is enjoying it, proving that the suggested age range of 8+ may not be entirely accurate. This challenging game offers hours of entertainment for the whole family, including myself, an engineer who appreciates the importance of the ball's weight for the game's primary objective. Just remember to store it carefully, as the plastic can be delicate, but with proper care, this maze game will last a long time and keep everyone engaged.
This extremely fun game helps kids with ADHD develop patience, coordination, and self-esteem. It comprises 32 different sensory toys, so your child won’t run out of ideas or grow bored.
This set comes with great packaging, which is a good option if you are considering giving it as a gift. It’s recommended for kids ages 3 and over, but there’s nothing stopping little ones from joining in.
Community Review
My experience with these sensory toys has been fantastic, not just for children but also for adults who need some help focusing. I found the Rubik's cube to be smooth and the fidget spinners to be some of the best I've encountered. However, I noticed that the color puzzle ball had some small sharp edges, so be cautious when handling it. Despite some minor drawbacks, these toys have been a great help for me to focus in class and keep my hands occupied.
Fidget toys are some of the best playthings for kids with ADHD who have issues keeping their hands still while sitting down. Kids can move and sculpt this pack of five Tangles endlessly. They come in bright colors, with different combinations available.
Small and portable, they can help release nervous energy and calm an anxious child. However, they do come apart, so they are unsuitable for kids under 3.
Individual Opinion
Bought this set of Tangle Jr. fidget toys and they're a hit with my kids and even myself! These colorful tangles are fun to twist and connect, making them perfect for those who need something to fidget with to help focus. Although some people found them to be less durable, I personally found them to be quite sturdy and long-lasting. They're especially great for kids who have a hard time sitting still in class or during meetings, as they are quiet and not visually distracting to others. This set of five tangles makes it easy to have them on hand whenever needed and their vibrant colors add an element of fun.
Fidget toys come in different shapes and sizes. This one is a marble sewn inside a mesh tube. Your child can bend it, squish it, fold it, or slide the marble back and forth. They can use it with one hand or two, and it’s good to conceal in a pocket.
Not only will it keep little hands busy, but it can also help a child with ADHD to focus, relieving stress and anxiety. It’s suitable for kids ages 3 years up.
First-Hand Impression
These marble mesh fidgets are a hit with both my daughter and my students. They come in a pack and are colorful, making them appealing to kids. However, some of them had issues with the threading coming loose, so I had to reinforce the ends to prevent the marbles from popping out. While the texture might not be for everyone, they are fantastic for quiet fidgeting and are quite affordable compared to other fidget toys.
This might be a trip down memory lane for some of you; I remember playing it when I was young. Simon lights up in a sequence that you have to remember and repeat. This new, updated version has three play modes to keep your kids engaged.
It can help a child with ADHD improve their memory and focus on the task in front of them in a fun way. It’s suitable for kids ages 7 years or over.
Personal Experience
After purchasing this modernized version of the classic Simon game, I was pleasantly surprised by how it retained the original feel from my childhood while incorporating updated features. The touch-sensitive buttons took some getting used to, but once I adjusted my technique, they worked well and added a sleek appearance to the game. Although there is no volume control, the sound is clear and loud, and the game offers new modes that provide even more fun and challenge than the original.
Squishy Play-Doh is tactile and will appeal to any child, especially those with ADHD. This simple set lets them squeeze different shapes and colors through the machine then mold them. It’s both creative and fun.
It’s suitable for kids from ages 3 and up. And there are endless ways for kids to continue their Play-Doh experience. Give them some cookie cutters, provide them with textured tools such as coins or stamps, or let them use their imaginations.
Personal Insight
This play doh toy has provided endless fun for my kids and me for over three years now. The sturdy design can handle a good amount of play doh, and if the shape pieces get stuck, soaking the press in warm water does the trick. My only complaint is that it can be difficult to clean, especially for younger children who might not have the dexterity to get into all the nooks and crannies. Despite this minor inconvenience, it remains a popular and entertaining toy for both my 3 and 5-year-olds.
Pretend and fantasy games are a good outlet for a child to deal with issues they may face at school or at home. Hand puppets allow them express themselves emotionally and socially. Putting on a puppet show for friends and family will help build confidence and self-esteem.
These two sets contain eight cute and loveable animals that kids 3 years and over will love.
Community Review
I'm impressed with the durability and softness of these hand puppets, but they can be difficult to maneuver for adults with larger hands. My 9-month-old son enjoys interacting with the puppets and their charming, recognizable faces. While not all customers are satisfied with the quality, these puppets have provided entertainment and engagement for my child and our family.
How to Choose a Toy for a Child with ADHD
About 6.4 million children in the United States have been diagnosed with ADHD. The average age for diagnosis is 7 years old, but the symptoms can start presenting as young as 3 years old (1).
Choosing a toy for a child with ADHD can be challenging. They might have special play needs, so it’s important to make wise choices. It’s best to consider toys that will help your child focus, boost their self-esteem and confidence, and calm their anxiety (2).
Here are some things we look for when selecting toys for kids with ADHD:
Concentration
Kids with ADHD get distracted easily, quickly losing interest and focus on toys and games. We like to choose things like bricks for building or STEM toys that will allow a child to be creative and improve their focus. They might find it easier to avoid distractions with these types of toys.
Noise Level
Loud noises and vibrations or harsh stimulation can be tough for a kid with ADHD to deal with. Find calming and quiet toys that will stimulate a child safely without causing additional stress.
Sensory Development
Children with ADHD might either under-respond or over-respond to sensory stimuli. Toys like sand and Play-Doh can calm a child while letting them be creative.
Stop Fidgeting
ADHD can cause a child to be fidgety and hyperactive. Even when sitting still, they might not know what to do with their hands. Fidget toys can occupy a child’s hands and help them concentrate. Games like Twister or other movement games can expend some excess energy.
Difficulty Level
A child with ADHD will quickly lose interest in an overly complex toy. Keep it simple but still challenging. This will let them develop and improve their self-esteem and sense of achievement.
Safety
Just as you would with any toy for kids, make sure it’s age-appropriate and safe.
Imaginative and Expressive Play
Costumes for dress-up and puppets for imaginary play can help a child with ADHD express themselves. They might find it easier to deal with issues they come across in everyday life by expressing them through play.
FAQs
What Do ADHD Kids Like to Play With?
Kids with ADHD often enjoy toys that offer sensory feedback, such as fidget toys, tactile puzzles, building sets, and active play equipment like mini-trampolines or balls. They may also appreciate creative outlets like art supplies and rhythm instruments.
How Do You Help an Overwhelmed Child With ADHD?
To help an overwhelmed child with ADHD, create a calm and structured environment. Use clear and consistent routines, break tasks into smaller steps, and provide regular, focused breaks. Encourage activities that help them release energy and provide positive feedback for efforts and accomplishments.
What Sensory Issues Do Kids With ADHD Have?
Kids with ADHD may be over-sensitive or under-sensitive to sensory inputs like touch, sound, light, or movement. They might seek constant movement or avoid certain textures or sounds. Providing a variety of sensory experiences can help them regulate their sensory needs.
What is a Good Hobby For an ADHD Child?
Good hobbies for an ADHD child include activities that channel their energy and focus in positive ways.
This might be sports, martial arts, music, art, cooking, or nature activities. The best hobbies are those that the child is genuinely interested in and can engage with consistently.
What Sports are Good For ADHD?
Sports that are good for ADHD include those with a clear set of rules and immediate goals, such as martial arts, swimming, running, or team sports like soccer or basketball.
These activities provide structure and physical exertion, which can help improve focus and reduce hyperactivity.
What is the Best Stress Ball For ADHD Kids?
The Original Monkey Noodle is a great brand of sensory stress balls for kids with ADHD. The best are ones that are durable and provide the right amount of resistance for sensory feedback.
Look for one that fits comfortably in their hand. Some children might prefer stress balls with textures or varying firmness for different sensory experiences.
Mary Sweeney, BSN, RN, CEN is an oncology nurse navigator and freelance medical writer. Mary has 4 years of experience as an officer in the Navy Nurse Corps. including emergency/trauma, post-anesthesia, and deployment medicine.