It seems like the tools available for kids with autism or sensory issues are few and far between. However, there is a business in Eugene, Oregon that provides a unique and affordable product for families in such situations.
My husband and I were introduced to *Autism & Special Needs Furniture through family. *We quickly learned that their furniture would be a valuable tool to have as we helped our daughter cope with hyperactivity issues. We were particularly sold on the support and sturdiness the chairs offered (and that normal beanbag chairs seem to lack). When we watched our kids on the Hug Chairs (pictured above) with other kids, we found that the furniture was durable enough to withstand constant abuse and that the soft microfiber cover comforted the kids.
Autism & Special Needs Furniture offers a wide array of chairs that are similar to beanbag chairs or Sumo Chairs, but are much higher quality than your standard dorm room beanbag. These chairs are filled with a special foam that stands up to heavy and frequent abuse. In fact, in order to provide the right amount of support to everyone from small kids through to adults, there are several different foams (with varying degrees of resilience) available.
The chairs are a wonderful outlet for kids with sensory issues, autism, or ADHD--not only to sit on, but to use as a piece of physical equipment that can be crashed on, jumped on, folded into, etc. I paid $150 (including shipping and a cover) for a standard Hug Chair. When the foam wears out, the company offers replacement filler for the price of shipping. For a chair my kids will use a ton (and I WANT them to jump on), I think this is very affordable!
Robb Bokich, the man who started Autism & Special Needs Furniture, was left partially-paralyzed in his teen years due to an auto accident. A few years later, he created his first chair with special filler for his own comfort. After several requests for replicas of the chair, Robb started his business under the name Robb's Pillow Furniture. After almost 40 years, the company has now grown to include several different kinds of chairs and furniture.
Autism and Special Needs Furniture's website also offers links to information on autism, Asperger's Syndrome, fibromyalgia, and other conditions that may benefit from specialized furniture. I found that while ordering from a website can often feel impersonal, this family-owned company offered top-notch customer service and was quick to respond to any questions that I had.
If you are looking for something to help your child (or you, or anyone else!) cope with autism, ADHD, or Asperger's--or are just looking for a comfortable piece of extremely-durable furniture--I encourage you to take a look at this online store!
