Holiday Gift Guide: Sensory-Friendly Gifts for Kids
5 min read
It’s the perfect time to find gifts that spark joy, inspire play and bring calm when kids need it most. If you’re looking for holiday gift ideas for kids that blend fun with purpose, you’ve come to the right place. Our occupational therapists rounded up their favorite sensory toys and autism-friendly gifts that support development, comfort and creative play. From stocking stuffers to big-impact sensory spaces, this guide will help you find the perfect present for every child on your list.
Stocking Stuffers & Small Surprises
1. Weave-It Fidget Ball
Keep hands engaged as kids weave the flexible silicone strings through the grooves on this lightweight ball. When they’re done just twist open the ball and store the strings inside!
2. Discovery Putty®
There’s never a dull moment with a tin of Discovery Putty®, and with 14 themes to choose from you’re sure to find something for each child.
3. Weighted Textured Balls - Set of 3
Have a ball with this tactile set! Each ball features a different texture and weight, giving kids extra sensory feedback while they play.
Wonderfully Weighted Comforts
Weighted toys and tools are always a popular pick because of the cozy calm they provide!
1. Sal the Weighted Seahorse
Keep hands engaged as kids weave the flexible silicone strings through the grooves on this lightweight ball. When they’re done just twist open the ball and store the strings inside!
2. Stan the Weighted Starfish
There’s never a dull moment with a tin of Discovery Putty®, and with 14 themes to choose from you’re sure to find something for each child.
3. Weighted Animal Lap Pads
Have a ball with this tactile set! Each ball features a different texture and weight, giving kids extra sensory feedback while they play.
4. Mega Weighted Lap Pad™ - Solar
There’s never a dull moment with a tin of Discovery Putty®, and with 14 themes to choose from you’re sure to find something for each child.
5. Weighted Hoodie Wrap
Have a ball with this tactile set! Each ball features a different texture and weight, giving kids extra sensory feedback while they play.
Creative & Imaginative Play
Not only do these tools provide incredible sensory input, but they also inspire imagination, self-expression and learning.
1. Canvas Play Tent
Kids can turn this tent into a cozy hideaway or set the stage for a make-believe camping adventure in the jungle.
2. Light Up Writing Board
Make your child’s creations glow with this engaging writing board. Slide a paper behind the board to trace or encourage them to use their imagination.
3. Zipline Convertible Loveseat
It’s a couch, it’s a fort, it’s a crash pad. Kids can’t resist the open-ended nature of this play couch, and the smaller size lends it perfectly to any space.
4. Peace In A Pod®
Snuggle up in this hap-pea pod! Each pea features a different facial expression, making them ripe for storytelling activities and role play.
Movement & Gross Motor Fun
Harness kids’ natural energy with OT-approved tools that also build balance, coordination and strength.
1. Tactile Peanut Ball
It’s an exciting tactile twist on our classic Peanut Ball! Kids can sit and bounce, or roll over the ball for a calming massage.
2. Stay-Put Wiggle Cushion
This wiggle cushion features a handy strap to loop under a chair, giving your child an added sense of security as they wiggle and fidget in their seat.
3. Soft Saddle Scooter™
Low-to-the-ground and extra supportive, kids feel fearless as they scoot around on this Soft Saddle Scooter!
4. Wooden Balance Board
Enhance any playroom with this timeless balance board. Sit or lie back on it and gently rock, or flip it over to make a bridge!
Big-Impact Sensory Spaces
If you’re looking to make a big impact, these sensory tools are unforgettable gifts for your kids!
1. Cozy Compression Swing
Snuggle up for a tight hug or stretch and spin for a full-body workout in this Cozy Compression Swing. Plus, now it comes in two colors to coordinate with any room!
2. Honeycomb Climbing Panels
Low-profile climbing panels that give a high-end look to your space are an un-bee-lievable opportunity to develop motor planning and problem solving skills.
3. Air-Lite® Ball Pit
Dive into sensory fun with this soft-sided ball pit! Fill it with your choice of balls or foam cubes to create a versatile play space at home.
4. Climbing Bars - Set of 2
Get your kids moving without leaving home! Hang up their favorite color climbing bars or create a pattern that you can install on the walls and ceiling.
Happy Holidays!
This year, give your kids the gift of play, comfort and confidence. Every item in this guide is designed to meet sensory needs while encouraging creativity, focus and skill-building movement. Whether you’re shopping for autism-friendly gifts, sensory toys for active kids or big-impact playroom additions, our team is here to help brighten the season.
Don’t miss out onearly access to holidays deals and more!
FAQs
What are the best sensory gifts for kids with autism?
Many kids with autism benefit from weighted products and fidget tools that they can use to help self-regulate. LED lights, like LimeLite™ LED Cubes, are often considered to be very soothing as well. Want to give a gift to your child’s special ed teacher? Check out our Discovery Putty® and other classroom-friendly sensory tools.
What are some sensory gift ideas for adults?
There is no age limit for sensory needs, and adults can benefit from sensory presents too! Be sure to check out our collection of fidgets for the adult sensory seeker in your life. Explore the adult-sized weighted wearables if they need a little extra calm.
What are good ADHD-friendly gifts?
Tap into ADHD needs with tools that encourage gross motor movement for better focus and regulation. Wiggle cushions, scooters and swings are all incredible options for those with ADHD. Open-ended sensory tools that encourage imaginative play also provide opportunities for your child’s creativity to shine.
Which gifts are best for children with down syndrome?
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