Holiday Gift Ideas for Kids with Autism
Parent Perspective: What to Buy Your Child this Year
This Christmas, I’ll buy my son yet another replica of his favorite toy—just like I do every year. He is obsessed with what we call “ball within a ball.” To him, it makes the most magnificent sound when he shakes it over and over again. For the rest of us, it’s a sound we’ve grown accustomed to—part of the background noise of our home. Although I’ll admit, it can get a little grating during road trips. Still, it’s the perfect gift for him, year after year, bringing pure joy every time he opens it.
As much as my son will experience delight opening (probably his fifteenth) “ball within a ball” this year, I wish I could find other gifts he’d genuinely enjoy. Gift shopping for kids with autism can be challenging. It often takes time for them to warm up to a new toy; some toys are rejected altogether.
In this blog, I’ve rounded up ideas for sensory-friendly toys and developmentally engaging games that might bring joy to your child this holiday season. While they may not replace their favorite stim toy, these gifts could help with sensory challenges and encourage meaningful play.
Gifts for sensory seekers.
Pod Swing:
If you have a sensory seeker in your home, you may want to try one of these swings. Our favorite is the pod swing. It provides more input around your child’s upper body compared to a platform swing but not so much compression that it becomes difficult to get in and out of. Another bonus is its versatility–you can use it both indoors and outdoors, depending on the season and your child’s preferences. We absolutely love this swing!
OUTREE Kids Pod Swing Seat Cotton Child Hammock Chair for Indoor and Outdoor use.
Harkla Hug:
For kids constantly leaning against you or pressing their bodies into pillows and blankets around the house, the Harkla Hug is an excellent alternative. My son went through a phase where we would climb right inside it after school and start shaking his beloved “ball within a ball.” It gave him a way to decompress, much like how I unwind by scrolling through my phone. It’s a truly great gift!
Stocking stuffers for the constant fidgeter.
If you have a child whose hands are in constant motion, these toys are worth checking out! Silly Putty is a classic that never goes out of style. Wiki Sticks are a fun, newer option—bendable wax sticks that can be shaped into endless designs. Both offer limitless possibilities for creativity and provide the perfect outlet for fidgety hands, helping your child stay engaged and focused.
Silly Putty:
Crayola Original Silly Putty Packaging May Vary (Pack of 6)
Wiki Sticks:
The gift of sleep all night long.
If your child needs their bedroom to be just so right before bed, this could be the perfect present. The Tranquil Turtle combines a nightlight, sound machine, and sensory toy all in one. For kids who rely on a sound machine or nightlight to wind down, this adds extra comfort and fun to their bedtime routine. We don’t have one in our house, but it’s definitely on my list!
Fun gifts for helping manage big emotions.
If you have a child with big feelings, a stress ball or pinch putty can provide a helpful outlet for expressing their emotions. I especially love these fruit-shaped stress balls because they serve their purpose and teach kids about different foods. Unlike most stress balls, these are specifically designed for young children.
Mindful maze toys are another fantastic option—they offer a calming distraction and help fuel a sense of regulation as your child traces the patterns with their finger. All of these make excellent stocking stuffers!
Stress Ball:
Schylling NeeDoh Groovy Fruit – Sensory Fidget Toy – Multiple Shapes – Ages 3 to Adult (Pack of 1)
Pinch Putty:
Pinch Me Therapy Dough – Holistic Aromatherapy Stress Relieving Putty – 10 Ounce Spa Scent
Mindful Maze Boards:
Presents for the stuffed animal lover.
If your child can’t go anywhere without a stuffie, why not introduce them to a plush version of Julia from Sesame Street? Julia is a character with autism, making her a familiar and fun companion and an excellent opportunity to start conversations with your child about their own autism and the similarities they may share with Julia.
Julia Doll from Sesame Street:
Repeat gifts for the creature of habit.
If you’re still unsure about what to get your child this holiday season, consider reaching out to your child’s ABA therapists or teachers. They might have noticed something your child has gravitated toward that will give you a new idea—a therapy toy or a tool they’re thinking about introducing in future therapy sessions. Over the years, my son’s therapist have given us some fantastic ideas we would’ve never thought of on our own.
As you shop for you child this year, my biggest piece of advice is: don’t overthink it. Go ahead and buy the same gift you’ve been giving year after year. Even if the novelty has worn off for you, chances are your child will be as thrilled as ever. Seeing their face light up with joy as they open yet another version of their favorite toy makes it all worthwhile.
What are your gift ideas?
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Kathy McClelland is a freelance copywriter and marketer for pediatric healthcare and special education brands from Austin, Texas. Before becoming a mom, her work included promoting medical journals and online publications for the American Academy of Pediatrics and parenting books for Tyndale House Publishers. When her second son was born with a rare genetic condition, she was thrust into the world of special needs parenting. Her website is kathymcopywriting.com.
Disclaimer: While I am a consultant writing on behalf of BrightPath Behavior, my child is not a current client. The views and experiences shared in this blog post are entirely from a parent’s perspective. My goal is to provide informative content and insights based on my personal experiences, as well as interviews conducted with the staff at BrightPath Behavior.
Note: The information provided in this article is for general guidance and does not replace professional advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional or therapist for personalized guidance.
