Mattel has extended its collaboration with the National Autistic Society for a second year to create a line of clothing tailored for children with autism, featuring the Thomas & Friends brand in partnership with supermarket brand F&F Clothing.

For many autistic individuals, sensitivity to certain materials and colors can make wearing regular clothing uncomfortable or painful. Research conducted by the National Autistic Society has revealed that key considerations for choosing clothing for autistic children include easy dressing, absence of labels and buttons, and Velcro fastenings.

Tesco's F&F brand has carefully designed the children's collection with these needs in mind, incorporating soft fabrics, loose-fitting garments like T-shirts, jumpers, and tracksuits suitable for autistic children aged 1 to 6 years.

As part of the initiative, F&F Clothing will contribute 5 percent of the full retail price of these products to the National Autistic Society to support its essential work in providing information, advice, and advocacy for autistic individuals and their families.

Peter Watt, director of national programs at the National Autistic Society, expressed delight at the partnership, emphasizing the importance of sensory-friendly clothing for autistic children and the positive impact it can have on their daily lives.