2023 Gift Guide for Children with Autism and Sensory Sensitivities

Gift Giving

As every parent of a child with autism or sensory sensitivities knows, finding the gift that fits your child’s unique preferences can be a bit tricky. The best way to go about buying a great holiday gift for your child is to start from experience. What activities, objects, and sensations does your child love the most? Which do they find most uncomfortable? If you are early in your family’s journey, autism testing can help clarify your child’s needs and recommended supports.

With answers to these questions in hand, you can start planning the perfect gift that will engage, comfort, and encourage your child.

You might find it helpful to look through a list of suggestions to get you thinking. Below you’ll find a list of popular gifts for children with autism and unique sensory needs, along with a brief description of the benefits you can expect from each. You’ll find gifts of all types and price ranges, from DIY crafts to bedroom furniture.

$ = $0–$25
$$ = $25–$75
$$$ = $75+

Fidget Toys ($)

A variety pack of fidget toys provides different textures and movements to help your child relax and concentrate. They provide a tangible outlet for excess energy and sensory input and are easy to bring anywhere.

Play-Doh ($)

Modeling clay supports sensory exploration, fine motor development, and creativity. The tactile experience can be especially soothing for children with sensory sensitivities.

Memory Games ($)

Memory games improve concentration, recall, and attention to detail. Games with large, colorful cards and familiar images promote learning and social interaction.

Motor Skill–Focused Toys ($–$$)

Toys that focus on motor skills help develop coordination and strength. Soft building blocks support gross motor development, while twisting and stacking toys strengthen fine motor skills.

Play Tents ($)

A cozy play tent offers a calming personal space that reduces overstimulation and increases a sense of security.

Light Projectors ($)

Light projectors create a visually soothing environment with predictable light patterns that many children find comforting.

Sound Machines ($)

Sound machines mask distracting noise and create a consistent auditory environment that promotes relaxation and sleep.

Sound-Canceling Headphones ($)

Headphones allow children to manage noise levels, increasing comfort and reducing stress in busy environments.

Fun Eating Utensils ($)

Engaging utensils make mealtime more approachable and can encourage independence, especially for children with ARFID. Some families benefit from coordinated care that includes speech and occupational therapy for feeding-related needs.

Play Mats ($$)

Textured play mats provide a defined, sensory-rich space that supports safe and active play.

Weighted Blankets ($$)

Weighted blankets offer deep pressure stimulation that can calm the nervous system and improve sleep.

Bean Bag Chairs / Pods ($$$)

Bean bags conform to the body, offering soothing tactile input and physical support during rest or play.

Cardboard Costumes ($)

Cardboard costumes encourage creativity, pretend play, and sensory exploration.

• Dinosaur costume example video here
• Transformer costume example video here

Oobleck ($)

Oobleck is a fascinating sensory material that shifts between solid and liquid, encouraging tactile exploration.

• Example video here

Sensory Bottles ($)

Sensory bottles provide visual and auditory stimulation that promotes calm focus and tracking.

• Example video here

Slime ($)

Slime offers a stretchy, squishy tactile experience that helps children stay calm and engaged.

• Example video here

Texture Boards ($)

Texture boards allow children to explore a variety of tactile inputs, supporting desensitization and engagement.

• Example video here

Sensory Bins ($)

Sensory bins encourage hands-on play, exploration, and fine motor development. Families building skills at home sometimes pair sensory play with goals used in ABA therapy programs.

• Example video here

If you are considering a comprehensive approach to services, a full-service center can provide coordinated care in one place, and Ally’s clinical excellence approach explains how progress is measured. For additional common questions from families, review Ally’s FAQs.

• Mommy Poppins
• Fat Brain Toys
• Inclusive Teach
• Healis Autism