Every morning, my sonshine Peyton comes to our room to get cozy for a few minutes, then he’s off to find his beloved robot letters and numbers.

Or magnetic letters and numbers.

Or if he finds me sitting up in bed early in the morning working on my laptop, he'll run off to get his keyboard - a used laptop he got from Dad- so he can work alongside me.

After school, it’s the same routine:

🧼 Wash hands

👕 Change into play clothes

🔢 Straight to numbers and letters/ keyboard!

Peyton loves practicing phonics, building words, and working through simple math problems out loud. It’s not just a hobby—it’s one of the repetitive behaviors that come with his autism.

And honestly? I love watching him light up when he gets a word or equation right.

While most kids dive into pretend play with action figures, dolls, or animal figurines, Peyton? He gets lost in his educational toys and games.

Sure, some toys—building blocks, race tracks, even robots—catch his attention for a little while… but nothing holds a candle to his beloved robot letters and numbers. 

And I totally get it—they’re pretty cool!

He loves them so much that he takes them everywhere:

🚗 In his sensory shoebox for car rides 

✈️ Tucked into a packing cube for travel 

🏠 Or just from room to room at home

I used to wonder if he’d ever get into other types of play… but now, I see the joy these bring him, and that’s what truly matters.

Jump to What Matters to You

You know I’m all about making things easier for you! So here you go—read at your own pace or jump straight to the sections that matter most!

You can continue with Peyton's Toy Overload Story

Or jump right into:

Why Decluttering Your Autistic Child’s Toys Matters 

5 Simple Tips to Declutter and Organize Your Autistic Child's Toys- Stress-Free

Tip #1- Declutter with Purpose 

Tip #2- Toss Broken or Overwhelming Toys 

Tip #3: Choose Sensory-Friendly Toys 

How to Choose Sensory-Friendly Toys

Sensory-Friendly Toy Ideas Based on Your Autistic Child's Sensory Sensitivities

Tip #4: Implement a Toy Rotation System 

How to Implement a Toy Rotation System

Tip #5: Create a Dedicated Play Space 

Next Steps to Get Your Autistic Child's Toys Organized

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Peyton's Toy Overload Story

Here’s the thing… Peyton’s deep love for certain toys has left us with piles of unused ones—blocks, cars, stuffed animals—you name it!

What should be a fun, playful space started feeling overwhelming and chaotic.

Despite my gentle reminders that Peyton has unique toy preferences, family and friends still lovingly tuck “regular” toys into colorful gift bags on birthdays and other special celebrations.

They mean well, but…

They don’t realize that he doesn’t always connect with these toys. They assume because it’s fun for most kids, Peyton will love it too. But that’s not always the case.

And honestly? Sometimes we’re guilty of it, too. 🙈

By "we," I mostly mean Dad. He’ll see a toy and say, “I think Peyton would love this!”—even when I repeatedly suggest otherwise.

Eventually, after six months to a year of sitting untouched, most of these toys end up:

• Donated to families who need them

• Shared in our neighborhood’s “Buy Nothing” group

• Rehomed to someone who will actually play with them

Sorry, y'all, they just lie around like the unused toys in Toy Story.

I’ve learned a thing or two during our own toy story.

One of them is that when it comes to toys, less is more, especially for our autistic kiddos.

A thoughtfully chosen toy collection that actually fits Peyton’s unique needs brings more joy than an overflowing playroom ever could.

Another thing I realized is that I have this overwhelming desire to share all I learn about organizing toys (and our homes) for our autistic kids. So here I am.

What You're Gonna Learn In This Post

In this post, you'll discover:

✔️ 5 Easy tips to declutter and organize your autistic child's toys—stress-free.

✔️ Lessons from real-life experience, not just theory.

✔️ Strategies to create a calm, sensory-friendly play space that supports learning and growth.

Why Decluttering Your Autistic Child’s Toys Matters 

Did you know that having too many toys can actually make it harder for your child to focus and play? 🤯

Science says so! A 2018 study in Infant Behavior and Development found that kids were more creative and engaged when they had fewer toys around.

Now, for your autistic child, the benefits of less clutter are even greater.

Sensory sensitivities mean that too many toys can feel like visual and mental overload—almost like too much noise, but for their eyes and brain.

But here’s the thing! Decluttering and organizing isn’t just about cleaning—it’s about creating a space where your child can thrive.

🖐️ 5 Simple Tips to Declutter and Organize Your Autistic Child's Toys- Stress-Free

Tip #1- Declutter with Purpose 

As mentioned before: too many toys can make it harder for your autistic child to focus and enjoy playtime. Birthdays, holidays, and gifts from family and friends quickly add to the clutter—but when it comes to play, less is more.

Decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of toys; it’s about creating a space that supports your child’s needs.

A thoughtfully organized play area encourages focus, reduces sensory overload, and makes it easier for your child to engage in meaningful play.

How to Declutter with Purpose:

• Observe what your child actually plays with. Notice which toys hold their attention and which ones sit untouched.

• Think about function and sensory needs. Keep toys that are calming, educational, or encourage creativity.

• Make decluttering a routine. Set a schedule—seasonally or before birthdays and holidays—to prevent toy buildup.

  
  

By decluttering with purpose, you create an environment that helps your child feel calm, engaged, and ready to explore.

Tip #2- Toss Broken or Overwhelming Toys 

Broken toys or those with overwhelming features—like loud noises or flashing lights—may overstimulate your child, especially if they have sensory sensitivities. These toys often disrupt calm and focused play.

I'll give you an example: for Peyton, I can tell immediately if a toy or video is too wild—even if I’m not actively playing with him. When he gets overstimulated, he starts bouncing, laughing, running around, being silly, and not listening when he's being spoken to.

You'd think we left him home alone like Kevin!

But then we'll change what he's doing or watching and he's instantly calm again.

Isn't it wild how that happens? (Sorry I couldn't help that one Lol

When you remove these overstimulating items you help create a sensory-friendly space for your kiddo that encourages peaceful and productive play.

Tip #3: Choose Sensory-Friendly Toys 

This step is longer than the others because it will not only help you now when organizing your autistic kiddo's play space. Learning to choose sensory-friendly toys will help you maintain an organized space.

Selecting toys that align with your child’s sensory preferences can truly make a difference. When you put together a collection of sensory-friendly toys, you’re creating a space where your child can feel calm, focused, and engaged in play.

How to Choose Sensory-Friendly Toys

When shopping for new toys, think about how they can enhance both the educational and sensory experiences for your child. Look for toys with soft textures, gentle colors, and soothing sensory features that match your child’s unique needs.

Sensory-Friendly Toy Ideas Based on Your Autistic Child's Sensory Sensitivities

For Kiddos Who Like:

Tactile Exploration

• Textured balls, squishy toys, and silicone fidget bracelets for soothing sensory input.

• Playdough or kinetic sand for calming, hands-on play.

• Sensory bins with rice, beans, or water beads for texture exploration.

  
  
  
  

  

Visual Stimulation

• Glitter bottles and liquid motion toys for gentle, mesmerizing visuals.

• Soft, colorful building blocks for creative, non-overwhelming play.

• LED light projectors for a relaxing atmosphere.

  
  

  Peyton has these glow-in-the-dark stickers of the solar system on his walls and ceiling. They help him relax as he drifts off to sleep at night.

  
  

Auditory Sensory Support

• Rain sticks or musical shakers for soft, soothing sounds.

• Noise-canceling headphones to manage overstimulating environments.

These are the noice cancelling headphones we use. Peyton loves them.

Gentle Pressure & Comfort

• Weighted stuffed animals or lap cushions for a cozy, calming effect.

• Weighted blankets for a comforting “hug” sensation.

• For snuggly comfort to fall asleep or just because check out this cute body pillow.

  
  

  

  
  
  
  

Movement & Balance

• Wobble boards and cushions for fun, active play.

• Rocking or spinning toys for gentle movement.

• Check out this sensory spinning chair! Some mamas in my local autism Facebook group absolutely love it. Of course, as with anything be sure to do your own research to see if it’s the right fit for your child!

Interactive & Creative Play

• Large-piece puzzles for fine motor skills and problem-solving.

• Fidget spinners, pop-its, or textured strips for self-regulation.

  
  

When you choose toys that support your autistic child’s sensory needs, you help them engage in meaningful play and can celebrate their small wins every step of the way! ✨

Tip #4: Implement a Toy Rotation System 

A toy rotation system is an absolute game changer when it comes to keeping your autistic child engaged without overwhelming them. It’s a simple yet effective way to prevent sensory overload, reduce clutter, and create a more sensory-friendly environment at home.

With a toy rotation, you can make every month a new experience for your child. Playtime becomes fresh and exciting while maintaining the calm and focus they need.

How to Implement a Toy Rotation System

1. Sort by Type – Organize toys into categories based on their function and sensory benefits:

   • 🧸 Calming – Soft toys, weighted plushies, fidget items

   • 🧩 Educational – Puzzles, stacking toys, shape sorters

   • ⚽ Active Play – Balls, trampolines, ride-on toys

   • 🎨 Creative – Art supplies, building blocks, pretend play sets

     
     

   For each rotation have varied mix of textures, colors, and sensory features to keep play engaging and stimulating.

   
   

2. Use Bins or Baskets – Store toys in labeled, clear bins to make rotation easy. Transparent bins allow kids to see their options without making a mess.

   
   

   For larger items like stuffed animals and blankets, consider using an oversized toy storage bean bag like this one mesh hampers, fabric bins, or hanging organizers to keep things tidy while still accessible.

Or a body pillow/ bolster like this one can also be used to store soft stuffed animals.

• Rotate Regularly – Swap toys every 2 weeks to a month, and make sure you have a variety from each toy category mentioned above.

  
  

• Keep It Manageable – Limit toys to 5-10 at a time to avoid overwhelm and to help maintain a sensory-friendly space.

Your rotation system helps you create a balanced and engaging play space for you autistic child. It helps them explore different sensory experiences without being overwhelmed by too many toys all at the same time.

Tip #5: Create a Dedicated Play Space 

A well-organized play area isn’t just about tidiness—it helps your autistic child stay focused, feel calm, and fully engage with their toys.

By creating a dedicated play space, you’re setting up an environment that encourages independence, exploration, and creativity while keeping things sensory-friendly.

Keep It Calm & Clutter-Free

A sensory-friendly space should feel organized and inviting, not overwhelming.

• Stick to neutral or soft colors for shelves and walls to create a calming atmosphere.

• Avoid overcrowding—less is more when it comes to keeping focus and reducing overstimulation.

• Add a cozy corner with a soft rug, bean bag, or weighted lap pad for a quiet break area.

When toys are organized and accessible, your child can do what they do best play- without distractions or frustration. A thoughtfully designed play area makes it easier for them to explore, learn, and have fun!

Creating an organized, sensory-friendly play space isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about setting your child up for success. When toys are thoughtfully chosen and rotated, playtime becomes more engaging, less overwhelming, and filled with opportunities for learning and growth.

I’ve seen this firsthand with Peyton. Over time, we’ve learned which toys truly support his focus and joy, and how a clutter-free space helps him play with more intention.

By decluttering with purpose, organizing in a way that makes sense for your child, and keeping overstimulating toys in check, you’re creating a space where they can thrive. So, take it one step at a time, celebrate the small wins, and enjoy the joy that comes with a well-organized play area!

Next Steps to Get Your Autistic Child's Toys Organized

Ready to take control of your autistic child's toys and create a sensory-friendly play environment?

Make a plan. Start small: Put aside a few minutes per day to execute. Even 10 minutes per day can add up to more than an hour each week.

Don't forget to download our FREE Guide to Create a Sensory-Friendly Home for Your Autistic Child.

Together, we can create a spaces where your child grows and shines—and we celebrate every step along the way.