For most people over the age of around 12, toys aren’t much more than just a childhood relic, confined to the memories of that by-gone era of being young. They’re usually either stored away never to be regularly played with again, put away for future generations to enjoy, or sold or donated so others can enjoy them as well.

For autistics, the value of toys, whether to be played with or displayed on a shelf, doesn’t necessarily diminish with age. Interests in certain toys may change, for example different types of toys aimed at specific age ranges, but for many, the curiosity and fascination will remain a key part of life.

I, of course, am no exception to this. As someone who is both blind and autistic, my passion radiates from two angles, both of which I will explain separately.

First, I’ll talk about how being blind has impacted my love of toys and collectibles. As someone who has always been into movies, TV shows and other forms of media, most of my life, since I became blind, I have tried to visualise specific characters, props or settings from some of my favourite franchises. Being lucky enough to have had some sight before this time, I can remember what some look like, but not all. Plus, there’s always small details I may have missed at the time, either not noticing or knowing to look out for them, as well as the potential for visual changes over the years.

There are several ways I have learned how to solve these problems, at least to some degree. These include looking up details online and asking people to describe things to me. But my most common (and arguably favourite) way is to collect toy representations, whether it be posable action figures, miniature figurines or larger play-sets.

In terms of my blindness, this allows me to visualise in my mind what these elements look like on-screen, including through different textures, shapes and colours, as well as, in some cases, play features. This is why, from a blind person’s point of view, I think it’s great for people who are blind or vision-impaired to collect toys, and I encourage it. After all, if we can’t use one sense, we should be able to embrace all others, especially (in this case) our sense of touch.

From an autistic side of things, I’d say the main reason is related to sensory stimulation, though I am no expert. People with autism tend to have heightened sensory levels, which I have spoken loosely about previously. Toys are usually made to assist in developing children’s sensory skills (among others), so therefore it makes sense why autistics may be attracted to them, especially ones for younger children. They allow for stimulation of different senses, which can increase focus and concentration. (Again, this is not an expert’s opinion, just what I believe to be true based on personal experience.)

Toys can also be used as comfort/security objects, especially for those more on the non-verbal and/or semi-dependent end of the spectrum. Going out in new environments or meeting new people can be quite a daunting task for someone with this level of autism, so in some instances toys can provide a welcome distraction and sense of familiarity. They can also be used in other unfamiliar or intense situations to provide a calming distraction when an autistic is feeling overwhelmed.

As someone who is both blind and autistic, I feel no shame about my “guilty pleasure” of toy collecting. As discussed above, I believe there are many benefits to it, with very few downsides. I am glad there is more understanding and awareness about this subject today then in the past, as it can often feel uncomfortable talking about personal hobbies like this, in a world where some people are so quick to judge others.

I’d like to finish with a little story from my primary school days. I remember one time in either Grade 5 or 6 a guy came out to our school to talk to the boys about what it means to be a man. I can’t remember much of what he said, but one thing in particular stood out to me. He mentioned how he also likes buying and collecting toys, and doesn’t care about what others think or say to him about it.

At the time I was shocked with how he could be so bold, but since then I have become more and more inspired by his words. I have only been able to truly embrace and follow through upon what he said within the last few years, but it has made me feel like a better person doing so.

If there’s one thing I can recommend to others out there with the same love of toys I have, it’s to not be ashamed about it. We’re all different people with different interests. Liking toys and/or collectibles is just one of yours. And remember, there are plenty of other people out there who are the same, it’s just a matter of finding out who they are. Then when you do find them, you’ll feel like you can discuss just about anything with them, much like with other passions.

I hope that helps anyone struggling in some way.

Sam.