Choosing the perfect gift for a child is always a delightful challenge, but when the child has autism or sensory issues, it can feel a bit more complex. You want to find a gift that not only brings them joy but also caters to their unique needs and preferences.
Every child with autism or sensory issues is wonderfully unique, and their interests, abilities, and challenges can vary widely. However, there are many gifts out there that can provide both fun and therapeutic benefits.
This guide aims to help you navigate the world of sensory-friendly toys and autism-friendly gifts. Whether you’re a parent, relative, or friend, these gift ideas are designed to engage, soothe, and delight children with autism or sensory processing disorders.
From toys that stimulate the senses in a gentle, calming manner to games that help improve social skills, these suggestions should spark your imagination and help you find the perfect present.
Remember, the best way to ensure your gift hits the mark is to communicate openly with the child’s parents or caregivers. They can provide invaluable insight into the child’s current interests, sensitivities, and developmental goals.
With their guidance and the ideas listed here, you’re well on your way to finding a gift that is both enjoyable and beneficial. Let’s dive in and explore some potential gifts that could light up the world for a child with autism or sensory issues.
1. Chewigem necklace
My daughter loves her beautiful Chewigem raindrop necklace in heather, and it has certainly helped to meet her oral sensory needs—especially the need to chew! It is very attractive and addresses her need to not look different too!
2. Litecup
My daughter keeps water near her bed so she can get a sip at night when she wakes up with a dry throat. She also likes a light when she’s up in the middle of the night. The Litecup meets both needs. The cup really is no-spill (which makes me very happy), and the light is just bright enough and is soothing.
3. Weighted blanket, vest, or lap blanket
These provide the deep pressure that kid with autism and sensory issues need. My daughter has really enjoyed her weighted blanket, although we need a new one since she’s grown so much!
4. Leader Light Vibrating Puppy
My daughter has had a vibrating puppy since my mom gave it to her for Christmas a few years ago. Different companies make them, and they’re available in different animal choices too. The vibrations are really soothing to my daughter when she is overwhelmed and needs sensory input. She often turns it on and snuggles with it at bedtime to help her unwind.
5. Kinetic sand
Kinetic sand is easy to form into sand castles and other fun shapes, and the “movement” and texture make it a great sensory item to have around. I “borrow” it sometimes myself, just to run my fingers through it while watching TV or reading. It’s fun!
6. iTunes Gift Card
Many kids with autism have an iPad, and you can’t go wrong with giving them a few more dollars to spend on music or apps. This is an easy gift for out-of-town relatives to buy, and it’s inexpensive to ship!
7. Scentsy Buddy
For kids who are really sensitive to smells and need positive input in that area, you can use a Scentsy Buddy as a form of aromatherapy. The pink pig my daughter has is no longer available, but they still have some cute choices. You can choose from a number of Scentsy packs that will best meet your child’s needs.
8. Play-Doh
Play-Doh is a classic that is perfect for kids with sensory issues. (Warning: It’s not gluten-free, so if your child tends to eat play dough and is on a GFCF diet, you might want to skip this one or make your own.) Kids can use Play-Doh to exercise their creativity, meet sensory needs for squishing and squeezing, work on fine motor skills, and more.
9. Clothes and shoes
Kids with autism and sensory issues often have very specific requirements for the clothes and shoes they will wear. Contributing to their wardrobe will help their parents because these items are worn and washed so often that they wear out quickly! Be sure to ask exactly what brand, size, color, etc. the child needs.