Wow. So sorry to hear about your friends son. Autism can be a very challenging diagnosis. The one thing that is very important is early intervention. She needs to get him all the help she can at this early age. This is the most important time to make progress in a child with autism. There are so many programs out there. I would sugest some sort of rocking horse that also bounces. Those can be use till about age 3 I think. Also some sensory toys. There are many out there. What she will want to get will depend on what will work for her child. I am sure she will try many different things before she finds ones that work. Maybe a swing of some sort. You can buy indoor swiings that attach to the rafters in your ceiling, but make sure he likes to swing first as theses can be very spendy. I think though that most insurances will cover the cost of them. I wish I had more answers for you, but all the children I work with are school aged. This website looks like it has some good info and products
http://www.southpawenterprises.com/ I wish her the best of luck.