One of my kids is fixated on trains and especially fascinated by Thomas the Tank Engine. So mostly he plays with trains, but also enjoys building toys like duplos. Our other son (who happens to be 8 too) doesn't play with most toys, but will sometimes build with legos or push a vehicle.

Have you tried different types of toys that aren't character based? Perhaps ones that would help her develop a needed skill. For instance, if speech were an issue you might try toys like these:

http://www.playingwithwords365.com/2012/02/top-...

I'm sure there other sites that would address the skills your daughter needs. Hang in there!

I have tried different toys that aren't character based. I will take a look at the website. Thank you!

Stick with Elmo( there will be plenty of choices, from books, games,toys, etc 😜) for now if that's what she will use.I've found with my six yr old if it's not " Batman" related he's not interested.His behavioral therapist said Autistic kids usually fixate on a particular character.Look on the bright side at least our kids like readly available characters not something impossible to find!!😀