Zula Autism Mart Journal

Monkey Balance Board Game: Fun Math Learning & Motor Skills for Children Dealing with Autism The Monkey Balance Board Game Math turns counting and problem‑solving into an interactive adventure. Perfect for children dealing with autism, this balance board game uses colorful monkeys and numbers to teach basic arithmetic while encouraging sensory play and fine‑motor development. Features Sturdy balance board with numbered slots for weight distribution. Set includes multiple monkeys and number tiles to practice counting, addition and subtraction. Bright, engaging colors and friendly monkey designs keep kids entertained. Safe, non‑toxic materials suitable for repeated use at home or in classrooms. Compact and easy to store when not in use. Benefits Improves early math skills by demonstrating number relationships through hands‑on balancing. Promotes fine‑motor development as kids place and adjust monkeys on the board. Enc...

Montessori Fidget Wooden Busy Board: Hands‑On Sensory Learning for Children Dealing with Autism The Montessori Fidget Wooden Busy Board is a portable sensory tool designed to entertain and educate. With a variety of moving parts—including gears, locks, switches and sliders—this wooden busy board promotes fine‑motor skills, problem‑solving and independent play for children dealing with autism. Features High‑quality wooden construction with smooth edges and non‑toxic paint. Includes a variety of tactile elements: gears, latches, locks, switches, zippers and sliders. Lightweight and compact design for easy transport—ideal for travel, waiting rooms or therapy sessions. Velcro strap or handle for secure carrying. Encourages self‑directed learning through Montessori‑style play. Benefits Develops fine‑motor skills: Manipulating locks, buttons and gears strengthens fingers and hand‑eye coordination. Encourages problem‑solving: Child...

Police Officer Costume for Kids: Role‑Play & Social Skills for Children Dealing with Autism Our Police Officer Costume for Kids invites imaginative role‑play while promoting social awareness and confidence. Designed with children dealing with autism in mind, this kit features soft, sensory‑friendly materials and realistic accessories that help kids explore empathy, communication and community helpers through play. What's Included Comfortable police officer hat with adjustable sizing. Realistic clip‑on badge to encourage identification and pride. Sturdy plastic handcuffs with safety release for pretend play. Durable, washable costume vest/jacket with authentic‑looking details (depending on variant). Everything comes in one set to make role‑play easy and engaging. Benefits Encourages imaginative play —children act out scenarios, building creativity and storytelling skills. Develops social skills through role‑playing com...

Puzzle Piece Autism Awareness Lanyards: Show Your Support & Keep Essentials Close Our Puzzle Piece Autism Awareness Lanyards combine function and meaning. Designed for families dealing with autism, these lanyards hold keys, ID badges, or access cards while displaying the signature puzzle‑piece pattern that represents autism acceptance and inclusion. Features Durable woven material with a comfortable, soft feel around the neck. Bright puzzle‑piece design to promote autism awareness in schools, workplaces, and communities. Strong metal clasp for attaching keys, ID cards, or small sensory tools. Standard length (approx. 18–20 inches), suitable for adults and teens. Lightweight, foldable, and easy to store in a pocket or purse. Benefits Shows your support for children and families dealing with autism. Keeps important items secure and accessible throughout the day. Sparks conversations about autism awareness and inclusi...

Rainbow Arc Soft Play Climber: Gross‑Motor Skills, Balance & Sensory Play for Children Dealing with Autism The Rainbow Arc Soft Play Climber 3‑Piece Set turns any room into a safe, sensory-friendly playground. Designed for children dealing with autism, this colorful soft climber helps develop gross‑motor skills, balance and coordination while inspiring imaginative play. Features Three vibrant, interlocking pieces: a curved arch, base and platform. Soft vinyl covering with foam interior provides cushioned support. Slip‑resistant bottom for secure play on most surfaces. Wipes clean easily—perfect for home, classrooms or therapy rooms. Lightweight and modular—rearrange pieces for new challenges. Benefits Develops gross‑motor skills: Encourages climbing, crawling and balancing movements. Improves coordination and balance: Safe challenges strengthen core muscles and posture. Promotes imaginative play: Children pretend i...

Sensory Pop Spiral Notebooks: Write & Pop for Calm Focus for Children Dealing with Autism Our Sensory Pop Spiral Notebooks combine the soothing satisfaction of popping with functional, lined pages—making writing or drawing sessions fun and calming. Designed for children dealing with autism, these notebooks encourage self‑regulation and fine‑motor skills through tactile feedback. Features Durable spiral binding with a pop‑it cover and integrated pop bubbles. Lined, perforated pages perfect for writing, drawing or note‑taking. Colorful and lightweight design that fits easily in backpacks or desks. Reusable pop bubbles for fidgeting during homework or quiet time. Non‑toxic materials safe for everyday use. Benefits Calms nerves and stress by providing repetitive popping feedback. Improves focus during reading, handwriting and study sessions. Develops fine‑motor control through popping, writing and page turning. En...

Set of 6 Hexagon Vinyl Floor Cushions: Sensory Seating & Social Fun for Children Dealing with Autism Our Set of 6 Hexagon Vinyl Floor Cushions offers versatile, comfortable seating that encourages sensory exploration and social engagement. Designed for children dealing with autism, these cushions create flexible floor space for circle time, therapy sessions and imaginative play. Features Six durable vinyl cushions in bright, engaging colors. Hexagon shape encourages creative arrangements and group seating. Easy‑clean surfaces—just wipe with a damp cloth. Lightweight and stackable for convenient storage. Thick foam padding provides comfortable support for sitting, kneeling or leaning. Benefits Promotes sensory regulation by providing a defined seating space with gentle support. Encourages social interaction during circle time, group activities and play sessions. Improves focus and posture for kids who struggle with ...

Therapeutic Donut: Calming Stress Relief & Deep‑Pressure Comfort for Children Dealing with Autism Our Therapeutic Donut offers a fun, effective way to ease stress and encourage hand‑strength development. Designed for children dealing with autism, this soft yet durable donut is perfect for squeezing and twisting—providing gentle deep‑pressure input that calms the nervous system and improves focus. Features Donut‑shaped design fits comfortably in a child’s hand. Soft, squeezable texture made from non‑toxic materials. Provides deep‑pressure feedback for calming sensory input. Portable and lightweight—ideal for school, home or therapy sessions. Easy to clean with soap and water. Benefits Relieves stress and anxiety through repetitive squeezing. Strengthens hands and fingers , promoting fine‑motor skills. Improves focus and attention during seated activities. Encourages self‑regulation , helping children manage sens...

Spinner Poppers: A Fun, Focus‑Boosting Fidget for Children Dealing with Autism Spinner Poppers combine two sensory experiences into one handy fidget toy—spinning like a traditional fidget spinner and popping like bubble wrap. Perfect for children dealing with autism, these colorful poppers encourage calm focus and fine‑motor skills through satisfying tactile and auditory feedback. Features 2‑in‑1 design: spin the fidget and pop the silicone bubbles. Durable, BPA‑free materials for safe everyday use. Bright, engaging colors attract and hold your child’s attention. Compact and portable—fits easily in pockets or backpacks. Easy to clean with soap and water. Benefits Calming sensory input: Spinning and popping reduce anxiety and stress. Improves focus and attention: Helps kids stay engaged during homework or therapy sessions. Enhances fine‑motor skills: Encourages finger dexterity and hand strength. Encourages self‑re...

Therapeutic Sensory Egg: Stress Relief & Hand Strength for Children Dealing with Autism The Therapeutic Sensory Egg is a palm‑sized fidget tool that delivers gentle resistance and tactile feedback. Designed for children dealing with autism and sensory processing differences, this squeezable egg helps relieve anxiety, improve focus and strengthen hands during schoolwork, therapy and everyday routines. Key Features Soft, squeezable egg shape that fits comfortably in a child’s hand. Durable, non‑toxic materials ensure long‑term safety and use. Ideal resistance level for building hand strength and coordination. Compact and portable—fits easily in pockets or backpacks. Encourages self‑regulation through tactile sensory input. Benefits Relieves stress and anxiety through repetitive squeezing and tactile feedback. Improves focus during classroom lessons, homework and therapy sessions. Strengthens hands and fingers, suppor...

Tie‑Dye Body Sock Sensory Sox: Calming Hug & Deep‑Pressure Play for Children Dealing with Autism The Tie‑Dye Body Sock Sensory Sox wraps your child in a gentle, stretchy hug that encourages deep‑pressure input and imaginative play. Designed for children dealing with autism, this colorful body sock helps reduce anxiety, improves body awareness and makes sensory play fun. Features Stretchy, breathable fabric that moves with your child for comfort. Vibrant tie‑dye pattern that inspires creativity and play. Provides deep‑pressure stimulation—similar to a calming hug. Easy to slip in and out; folds for travel or storage. Available in multiple sizes for different ages and abilities. Benefits Calms the nervous system by delivering deep‑pressure input. Improves body awareness and proprioception during play. Encourages active movement and gross‑motor skill development. Supports imaginative play —kids love pretending th...

Unicorn Garden Dress‑Up Toy Set: Sensory Play & Fine‑Motor Skills for Children Dealing with Autism The Unicorn Garden Dress‑Up Toy Set transforms playtime into a magical sensory adventure. Designed for children dealing with autism, this set encourages tactile exploration, imaginative storytelling and fine‑motor skills through hands‑on gardening play. What’s Included A unicorn‑themed apron, hat and gloves for dress‑up fun. Child‑sized tools (rake, shovel, watering can) to practice digging and planting. Colorful accessories like stickers, seed packets and plant markers. Easy‑to‑follow activity guide to spark ideas for sensory play indoors or outdoors. Key Benefits Enhances fine‑motor development through digging, pouring and planting. Encourages sensory exploration with textures, colors and natural elements. Fosters imaginative play as children pretend to tend a magical garden. Promotes responsibility by teaching kid...

Weighted Lap Bunny: Calming Comfort for Children Dealing With Autism Our Weighted Lap Bunny offers calming comfort that helps children dealing with autism focus and relax. The gentle weight and soft texture deliver deep‑pressure stimulation—reducing anxiety and improving attention during homework, meals and playtime. Features 5 lb weighted lap pad sized just for children. Soft bunny design with removable, washable cover. Disguised as a plush toy to encourage use. Portable—ideal for school, therapy sessions or travel. Available in multiple colors to suit your child’s preferences. Benefits Reduces sensory overload and promotes calm. Encourages focus during seated tasks. Improves sleep quality when used before bedtime. Calms children during transitions, appointments or long car rides. Encourages independence and self‑regulation. How to Use Place the Weighted Lap Bunny across the child’s lap or shoulders d...

Autism Safety Story: The Day I Ran Barefoot to Save a Child | Zula Autism Mart Autism Safety Story: The Day I Ran Barefoot to Save a Child Some stories stay with you forever. This one still gives me chills. I was serving as the CEO of LegacyATM.com at the time, focused on numbers, meetings, and growth. But one afternoon, all that mattered was a single child — a five-year-old girl, diagnosed at Level 3 on the autism spectrum. I was helping watch her for just a short while when something happened that I’ll never forget. It Happened in Seconds She had been calm just moments before — drawing quietly, humming softly. I turned away for less than a minute. When I looked back, the front door was wide open. My stomach dropped. She had somehow managed to unlock two difficult locks — locks that most adults would struggle with — and there wasn’t even a chair nearby to climb on. She was gone . I sprinted to the door, heart pounding, scanning the yard and the street. I didn’t...

Why Sensory Tools Matter: Calming, Comfort, and Confidence for Families Dealing with Autism Every family dealing with autism knows this truth: comfort changes everything. Sensory-friendly tools aren’t luxuries—they’re daily supports that help children regulate, rest, and reconnect. When a child feels calm, the whole home breathes easier. What Sensory Tools Actually Do Regulate the nervous system: Weighted blankets and compression vests provide deep pressure that reduces stress responses. Improve transitions: Visual timers, fidgets, and lap pads help ease changes between tasks and activities. Support sleep and focus: Consistent sensory input can help children settle at night and focus during the day. Build confidence: When kids feel safe in their bodies, they try new things and communicate more freely. Daily Moments That Make a Difference Morning calm: A compression vest and a visual schedule turn chaos into routine. After-scho...

Get $3,500 Reimbursed for Autism Sensory Products | Zula Autism Mart Get Up to $3,500 Reimbursed for Autism Sensory Products Families facing the challenges of autism deserve support — not just emotionally, but financially. Many insurance and Medicaid plans will reimburse families for the cost of sensory-friendly tools, therapy aids and adaptive products. In some states, families may even be eligible to claim up to $3,500 per year . At Zula Autism Mart, we guide families step by step to access these benefits with clarity and ease. Why Sensory Products Matter Sensory tools — like weighted blankets, compression vests, swings and chewable jewelry — help regulate the nervous system and make daily life more manageable for many children and adults on the autism spectrum. These tools aren't extras — they’re often essential for sleep, learning, focus and emotional regulation. What Does Reimbursement Cover? Depending on your ...

Sensory Cushions and Movement Tools: Keeping Bodies Alert and Minds Calm | Zula Autism Mart Sensory Cushions and Movement Tools: Keeping Bodies Alert and Minds Calm Sometimes the best way to help a child focus is to let them move. Sensory cushions and movement tools give children the freedom to wiggle, bounce, and shift safely—so their bodies stay comfortable and their minds stay calm. For autistic children or those with attention differences, these tools turn restlessness into regulation. Why Movement Helps Learning Movement stimulates the brain’s attention and memory centers. It releases energy that might otherwise turn into fidgeting or distraction. Instead of fighting the need to move, sensory cushions and flexible seating embrace it—helping children find balance and rhythm in their learning environment. Types of Movement Tools Every child’s sensory profile is unique, so options should be flexible and comfortable. Common classroom-friendly tools include: Wo...

Travel Tips for Families Dealing with Autism: Minimizing Stress and Maximizing Fun Travel can open doors to new experiences and strengthen family bonds, but it can also feel overwhelming when you’re parenting a child dealing with autism. New environments, loud noises, unfamiliar routines and crowded spaces can trigger anxiety or sensory overload. Thoughtful planning and preparation can make a world of difference. This guide offers evidence-based tips for planning, preparing and enjoying trips with less stress and more joy. Plan and Practise Ahead of Time A successful trip starts well before you leave home. Many children deal better with change when they know what to expect. Here’s how to prepare: Research autism-friendly destinations. Look for hotels, attractions and airports that offer sensory rooms, quiet spaces or special accommodations. Call ahead to ask about early boarding, special meals or seating options. Use teaching stories and social stories. Create...

  Sensory Meltdowns & Coping Strategies: Understanding and Supporting Children Dealing with Autism Meltdowns can be overwhelming for everyone involved. Unlike tantrums, which are goal‑oriented and under a child’s control, a sensory or emotional meltdown is an involuntary response to nervous‑system overload [oai_citation:0‡autism.org](https://autism.org/meltdowns-calming-techniques-in-autism/#:~:text=A%20tantrum%20is%20an%20emotional,so%20recovery%20is%20nearly%20instant). During a meltdown, children may scream, cry, or engage in repetitive movements as their brain shifts into “fight‑or‑flight” mode [oai_citation:1‡autism.org](https://autism.org/meltdowns-calming-techniques-in-autism/#:~:text=Contrastingly%2C%20meltdowns%20are%20involuntary%20responses,more%20after%20removing%20the%20stressor). These episodes aren’t manipulative; they are signs that the environment or situation has become too much to handle. Understanding this difference helps families respond with e...

Calming Corners: How to Build One in a Classroom | Zula Autism Mart Calming Corners: How to Build One in a Classroom Every child deserves a space to breathe. For autistic students and others who experience sensory overload, a well-designed calming corner can make the classroom feel safe again. It’s not a time-out zone—it’s a place of regulation, comfort, and recovery. In just a few steps, any classroom can include a calm corner that fosters focus, empathy, and emotional growth. Why Calming Corners Matter Calming corners give students a safe place to step away from overwhelming moments. Instead of being sent out of class, children can stay connected and return to learning when ready. It teaches self-awareness and helps prevent meltdowns before they begin. For autistic children, it’s a lifeline—a predictable, accepting space that says, “You’re safe here.” What to Include in a Calming Corner You don’t need fancy furniture or a big budget—just intention. Choose items t...

Animal-Assisted Therapy: Furry Friends Helping Children Dealing with Autism Grow Animals have a unique ability to connect with us. For children dealing with autism, spending time with a friendly dog, gentle horse or cuddly guinea pig can unlock new pathways for communication, social skills and emotional regulation. Animal‑assisted therapy (AAT) brings trained animals into therapeutic sessions to provide comfort, encouragement and opportunities for growth. Families often find that the non‑judgmental presence of an animal helps children feel safe and motivated to engage in therapy, while also providing plenty of joy and companionship. Social, Emotional and Physical Benefits Research shows that animal‑assisted therapy can enhance social skills, communication and empathy for children with autism. Interacting with animals helps children interpret non‑verbal cues and practice appropriate social behaviours in a safe, accepting environment [oai_citation:0‡apexaba.com](https://ww...

Outdoor Play & Nature Activities: The Power of Time Outside for Children Dealing with Autism Spending time outdoors offers a wealth of benefits for families dealing with autism. Nature provides a calming environment full of sights, sounds and textures that encourage exploration without overwhelming the senses. Outdoor play supports healthy growth by combining physical activity with opportunities for learning, social connection and emotional well‑being. Whether it’s a stroll through a garden, a visit to the park or a simple backyard adventure, time outside can become a cherished part of your child’s routine. Physical Health & Motor Skills Outdoor activities encourage movement and exercise in ways that feel natural and fun. Running, climbing, balancing and exploring uneven surfaces help children build muscle strength, improve coordination and develop gross and fine motor skills. Sunshine also stimulates the body’s production of vitamin D, supporting bone health an...