Kimochis are Helping Autistic Kids to Express Themselves

I first heard about Kimochis (KEY.MO.CHEES)  just after Sophie was diagnosed with ASD last year and bought one for her for Christmas.

What are they?

Kimochi means ‘feeling’ in Japanese and these toys are loved by both parents and kids for their colour, their unique characters of strengths and challenges and the valuable social/emotional lessons they teach. There are seven plush Kimochis characters to identify and relate to.

Who are they?

‘Bella Rose’ is sensitive and insecure. Whilst being sensitive can be a blessing, sometimes it can be a challenge for this beautiful character.

‘Clover’ is a four leaf clover with bad luck. He’s a bit absent minded but always means well and has a great sense of humour. Clover teaches persistence and optimism and comes with his lucky (removable) lady bug, Howard.

‘CloudTM is a bit moody and unpredictable, and can be happy or sad by turning his head to display a grey sad face, or white happy face. He teaches kids that it’s okay to be angry but never okay to be mean.

‘Bug’ is a rather timid caterpillar who is afraid of change, and tucks his wings away when uncertain. Turning into a butterfly, his beautiful wings come out when he’s feeling brave.

‘Cat’ is a natural leader but can be somewhat bossy and is known to get into a few cat fights! She comes with a set of her own replaceable bandages to heal physical or emotional wounds.

‘HuggtopusTM is very loveable, but sometimes overly friendly and needs to learn about personal boundaries.

‘Lovey DoveTM is nurturing and patient and like all doves, keeps the peace! Lovey Dove comes with her little baby Turtle Dove, a grey dove specifically designed in a different colour to help children who feel a little different – whether that be for adopted/foster families, mixed race families or even because a child’s hair colour may be different to that of the rest of the family.

What do they do?

Kimochis help to encourage children to express themselves, build self-esteem, confidence and resilience, Kimochis® are helping children develop a ‘feelings vocabulary’ and emotional literacy in already close on 180 Australian schools, in Playgroups, Occupational and general therapy clinics, hospitals and homes across the country. Kimochis® provide ‘teachable moments’ around emotions, conflict resolution and social interaction.

Feelings can be messy…. Kimochis® can help!
And now Kimochis are an approved product for ‘Helping Children with Autism’ package.

What do you get?

Each Kimochis character comes in its own box with three little feelings characters, which vary per character and a detailed Feel Guide.

Also available are additional Mixed Feelings packs. Each has five different feelings, including a blank ‘make your own feeling’, with a washable pen, mini Kimochis and Kimochis books.

Where to find out more

To find out more, including all prices, stockists and to order online go to www.kimochis.com.au

You can also see a really cute video of the overly friendly Huggtopus, teaching kids about personal boundaries and social cues on YouTube!

Like Kimochis on Facebook

and follow them on Twitter

Here are some photos of Sophie playing with her ‘Bug’ :

I am really happy to announce that I have one of the Kimochis, Lovey Dove to give away to one of my readers.

Lovey Dove™ is sweet and nurturing and is always there to help smooth out a lumpy situation. If the Kimochis® had one mum they could all share it would be Lovey™. Lovey Dove™ is a great cuddler.

Lovey™ is calm, wise and lives psychology. She is a successful problem solver because she is great listener. On rare occasions, Lovey’s™ patience can be put to the test.

When the Kimochis® get a bit out of control, Lovey Dove™ will give a shrill whistle in an effort to bring back the harmony of the group. Lovey™ knows in her heart that she can’t always please everyone, but still feels a little sad when someone feels let down. Lovey Dove™ has a big generous heart and is always there to help the Kimochis®. Lovey™ comes with her baby, Turtle Dove, tucked gently underneath her wing.

To go into the draw simply fill in the form below.

I will draw a winner using random.org on Sunday March 25th at 8pm.

Tagged with: autism • emotions • feelings • kimochis • toys for learning • toys to help autism

Filed under: Autism

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