Sensory toys are gaining popularity among Canadians

Many say that sensory toys are becoming popular not only among children, but also among adults.

“We've seen this with fidget spinners. When these things started coming into school, I was so excited because it was, oh my god, it was normal, finally, yay! We can all be encouraged and happy,” said Olivia Dawes.

“I think everybody's nervous and it's really important that we normalize it, you know?

“Toad” Dawes of Winnipeg's Toad Hall Toys, who was later diagnosed with autism, says sensory toys help stimulate him – making repetitive movements or sounds. He does this because this is how he adjusts his body and releases stored energy.

“I'm one of those sensory seekers who loves weight when I'm in a lot of pain,” she said.

There is a wide range of sensory toys, including things that people can touch, smell or even chew. Dawes says she's happy that more toys are coming out and that price barriers are falling to make them affordable for people, and she wants to have the same experience when she grows up.

“I had a lot of stress because that energy had nowhere to go,” Dawes explained.

Now she's an expert at a Winnipeg toy and hobby store, helping others figure out which toys can help stimulate the senses and regulate the body. Dawes said he also has a say in what toys are considered for the store.

“It's really cool to listen to,” he said.

3D printing of toys and models is growing

One of the reasons that sensory toys are becoming more accessible to the masses is the rise of 3D printing.

“There are millions of these machines out there,” said Kerry Stevenson, a 3D printing expert and founder of Fabbaloo, a 3D printing blog.

“That's enough to create a market where people who know how to model and create content for print can create unusual things and sell them to a very large audience now.”

Stevenson says making toys and models is big in the industry. There are even groups that make toys that evoke different feelings.

“There is a niche in the 3D modeling area where people are creating what are called 'tactile models.' These are specially designed models for visually impaired people,” he explained.

Stevenson spent about two hours at CityNews in his home office on Friday printing a 3D model of the planet Mars so it's easier for people to get a feel for it.

“By exaggerating faces, people realize that, yes, there is a valley. There's a mountain here and three volcanoes in a row, and that sort of thing.”

Sensory toys for everyone, says Dawes

Dawes says that even if you're not officially “stimulating,” toys that stimulate your senses are still a great way to de-stress and keep calm.

“A lot of people, I think, are probably a little bit hesitant to label it as disruptive because they still associate it with autism or attention deficit disorder,” Dawes said. “I don't think it's anything to be ashamed of. I think if you find something that makes you shine, go for it!”