Autistic children can be so difficult to buy for in that they like to play with the same things over and over again. Chronologically, they might be 7 but developmentally, they’re around 4. New toys can be overwhelming for them. This holiday gift guide will hopefully give you some ideas.
I always like to tell anyone that wants to get Logan a Christmas gift specific things to buy. Although it sounds entitled, I very heavily encourage them not to deviate from the list. There are things he just won’t or can’t play with. No one wants their holiday to be ruined in an autism rising moment. Like the time my sister gave him play dough when he was 12. He can’t play with it due to a gluten allergy. Yeah, that was fun.
Regardless, lots of times, grandparents have a hard time buying what is developmentally appropriate for the autistic child. It’s hard for them to accept this gap. Giving them a list and asking them not to deviate from it helps buffer that emotion. It sets realistic expectations for everyone.
Holiday Gift Guide For Autistic Children
Is the child non verbal or pre verbal?
If the child doesn’t have an AAC device, then an iPad and program would be life changing for the family. iPads are normally on sale around Black Friday or during the holidays. Make sure to get a protective case as autistic kids sometimes have poor impulsivity.
2021 Apple 11-inch iPad Pro (Wi-Fi + Cellular, 256GB) – Space Gray
OtterBox UnlimitEd SERIES Case with Kickstand & Hand Strap + Screen Protector for iPad 7th, 8th & 9th Gen (10.2
Sometimes you want to get a gift to help with communication but an iPad is out of the budget. Why not get some communication boards or picture schedules?
Say it with Symbols Compact Adult Picture Communication Book Helps Adults with Speech Difficulties from Stroke, Aphasia, Brain Injury, Cerebral Palsy, Parkinsons, MSDaily Visual Picture Schedule W/ 3 Charts and 45 Colorful Real Picture Cards for Children/Adults W/Autism, Speech Delays
A sign language coloring book would be helpful for everyone involved in your child’s care. The more your child can communicate, the better quality of life for him and the whole family.
Miko’s got dozens of emotions (and a few tricks up its sleeve). Not just recognizing you and calling you by name, but responding to your mood and getting to know you a little better each day. Need a joke when you’re down? A dance when you’re bored? Miko’s on it. Because it’s not just the smartest little robot you’ll ever meet. It’s also your friend.
Perfect for autistic children to work on emotions in a safe environment.
What are the child’s therapy needs?
Plasma cars, exercise balls as well as other occupational therapy items can be helpful for continuing therapy at home. Find out the child’s therapy needs then buy from there.
PlasmaCar The Original by PlaSmart (Red)OUTREE Kids Pod Swing Seat 100% Cotton Child Hammock Chair for Indoor and Outdoor use (Blue)Body Sock Sensory Sox – Deep Pressure Stimulation for Children with Sensory Proceessing Disorders
Anything they can use for their sensory needs are always a good gift idea. Weighted vests or blankets, sensory swings or boxes. Anything you need to help your child maintain their sensory diet.
Educational needs can not be overlooked regardless if homeschooled or public schooled. One way to enhance social outings and learn new skills is using a vr headset You can do a tour of Disney World and “ride” Thunder Mountain.
At one point he put his hand in front of his face as if to block it and said “ah! Be careful!” 
Having fun and working on his expressive language!! It’s a win-win!
Oculus Quest 2 — 256GB Video — White Advanced All-in-One Virtual Reality Headset — 3D Cinematic Sound — for Family Holiday VR Gaming Entertainment — 2 Silicone Face Cover + USB Extension CableNewest Oculus Quest 2 Wireless All-in-one VR Gaming Headset – 128GB (Newest Firmware) – Support Casting to Tablet + VGSION Batteries and Free GamesOculus Quest 2 — Advanced All-In-One Virtual Reality Headset — 128 GB with Carrying Case and Elite Strap for Enhanced Support and Comfort in VR
What are their spiritual needs?
If you’re religious, then you can’t afford to overlook your autistic child’s spiritual needs. It can be a bit difficult since they think in pictures but it’s doable. Repetition is critical for these concepts.
The Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His NameFloor Puzzle for Kids – Noah’s Ark – Jumbo Jigsaw Puzzle, Educational Game for Family and Kindergarten, Age 3-5, 48-Piece, 1.9 x 2.9 FeetPiece on Earth Nativity Puzzle Board | Children’s 11 pc. Chunky Wooden Inset Shapes | First Christmas, New Testament Christian Bible Story Toy for Advent, Religious Holidays, and Learning
Could you buy something needed to keep them healthy? Essential oils or a diffuser for them to try for focus.
Life skills are important for our autistic kids. Life skills are literally safety skills. The more they can do for themselves, the less likely they are to be victimized. Why not buy a subscription box to Raddish to work on cooking skills?
Children, autistic or not, don’t need more toys or items that will overwhelm them. Take some time to talk to the parents to see what they need. I bet a gift that’s needed would be so much more appreciated than one that will take up space and remind the parents of their deficits. Be an encourager!
Related Posts:
DIY Weighted Vest For Sensory Needs
AT Home Occupational Therapy Program
Another year, another Christmas! The most wonderful time of the year is upon us. And some of the best things about this time of year is that it’s a time of gratitude, togetherness, and celebration.
I have teamed up with some pretty generous bloggers for the 9th annual Christmas Blessings Giveaway to bless FIVE families this year. In the past we have had two winners for this giveaway, but this year we wanted to give to even more families – we are giving away $200 gift cards to 5 families! Each winner will get a $200 gift card to wherever they choose – a restaurant, clothing store, grocery store, online retailer – any place that offers gift cards!
There are lots of entry options in the Rafflecopter form below – the more you enter, the better your chance of winning! I know it can seem tedious and time consuming to go through all the entries, but isn’t a chance at $200 worth it? I think it is! Plus, all of these amazing bloggers donated their own money towards the prizes, so this giveaway wouldn’t be possible without them. I hope you’ll take the time to check out each one. Who knows, maybe you will find some new blogs to follow.
The giveaway will run from Monday, November 14th through Wednesday, November 23rd (ends at 11:59pm EST). Winner will be notified by email shortly after the giveaway ends and will have 48 hours to respond to claim the prize or another winner will be drawn. By entering this giveaway, you agree to be added to the email lists of the participating bloggers. Please be sure to read the Rafflecopter terms and conditions upon entering
a Rafflecopter giveaway
