9 Best Holiday Gifts for Children with Autism
Therapist-recommended and sensory-friendly gifts that celebrate the unique needs of every child
Finding the best holiday gifts for children with autism can be an opportunity to embrace their unique preferences, sensory needs, and developmental goals. Here are ten thoughtful options that can make a meaningful impact:
1. Weighted Blankets
One of our favorite sensory items recommended by our BCBAs to have at home is weighted blankets! Weighted blankets provide calming sensory input, helping children feel secure and relaxed. They can also support better sleep patterns, making them a practical and comforting gift.
For something more portable that you can take on the go, there are also plenty of options for weighted hoodies and jackets!
2. Fidget Toys
While they became a popular commodity for entertainment for young children, fidget toys were originally invented to help with regulation, concentration and stress relief. These toys are great for individuals who benefit from support to focus on tasks. Fidget toys come in various textures and movements, like spinners, cubes, or stretchy bands. They’re small, portable, and perfect for busy hands during travel or quiet time.
3. Sensory-Friendly Clothing
What exactly is sensory-friendly clothing? You may not notice at first, but most clothing is made of many different parts that are sewn together. This can often result in charactertistics which cause discomfort to individuals who are extra sensitive to textures, such as rough fabric, tags, seams, or even a bulky hood shape on a sweatshirt. Sensory-friendly clothing is designed to reduce sensory irritations and. It’s often tag-free, soft, and seamless, and ensures comfort during daily routines.
Two resources we recommend to find sensory-friendly clothing are Target’s Kids’ Adaptive collection, and Sense-ational You.
For children, we recommend choosing fun colors or patterns to add a personalized touch that kids will love!
4. Noise-Canceling Headphones
Noise-canceling headphones are ideal for children sensitive to noise. These headphones create a more manageable environment in loud or overwhelming spaces, which could include supermarkets and shopping areas, parades, or playgrounds.
5. Sensory Toys
Children often engage in sensory exploration to better understand their environment. Sensory play supports problem-solving, fine motor skills, and attention. Toys that stimulate multiple senses—like those that light up, produce sounds, or offer interesting textures—are particularly engaging and beneficial for children with autism or other developmental disabilities.
Some sensory toys we recommend include poppers, musical toys, and pop-up activities. For tactile play, consider items like body socks or textured balls.
Movement toys:
For more active play, movement toys like “spinny chairs” and mini indoor trampolines can help kids regulate their energy and engage in whole-body activities.
6. Therapy Swings
Who doesn’t love to swing? Therapy Swings are not as well known, but a great holiday gift. They’re a fun activity for all kids, and an especially great tool for individuals need sensory regulation and a calming indoor play experience. They also encourage physical activity in a safe and controlled environment.
Here are a couple budget-friendly therapy swing options from Amazon and fun and function.
(Make sure to follow all mounting instructions to ensure safety for the child!)
7. Interactive Storybooks
Best recommended for ages 6+. We have lots of well-loved interactive storybooks at our ABA centers! Books with textures, sounds, or flaps engage multiple senses, fostering a love for reading and communication. Many interactive books also help reinforce language and comprehension skills.
8. Gift Cards for Experiences
Consider gift cards for activities like sensory-friendly movies, sensory gyms, aquariums, or family-friendly outings that accommodate sensory needs. These experiences provide opportunities for bonding and creating cherished family memories.
Selecting the best holiday gifts for children with autism means taking their unique preferences and goals into account. Thoughtful presents like these can bring joy while supporting growth and comfort.
9. Special Interests - Child's Choice!
Every child has individual interests that excite their curiosity and creativity. Fostering these special interests can boost engagement, build confidence, and encourage deeper exploration. Whether it’s dinosaurs, trains, space, or animals, choosing toys or activities aligned with your child’s current interests allows them to play and learn in ways that resonate most with them.
Still stuck? Ask your child! See what they’re playing with, and trial different toys and activities. By nurturing what they already love, you create opportunities for joyful learning and meaningful connections that support their growth and individuality.
Need more gifts ideas or examples of how to support children with autism in a fun and play-based way? Follow us on Facebook or Instagram to seee weekly updates of our student activities!