Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support

Gift Ideas for Children with Sensory Differences

Children with sensory differences ... painting the world beautiful.

Gift Ideas for Children with Sensory Differences

Jeanette Loftus

Finding the right gift for a child who has sensory processing differences requires understanding their specific sensory needs and seeking out items that can be calming or provide sensory input. Instead of focusing on the latest toy, consider getting them a gift that promotes regulation or something that they need for their sensory diet each day.

For Children who are Sensory Processing Avoiders

Hypersensitivity (over-responsivity)

The gentle pressure from a weighted blanket or weighted lap pad feels calming and can reduce anxiety. Always ask and consult with your child's occupational therapist or medical professional for the appropriate weighted and size for your child before purchasing.

Loud noises can be overwhelming for a child who has sensory differences. Noise-cancelling headphones can be helpful with sensory overload in busy environments. Look for a comfortable pair that are child size.

Purchasing a very soft plush fleece blanket can be a great comforting tactile present for a child who struggles with tactile defensiveness. Avoid blankets that have rough or scratchy textures.

Calming toys such as puzzles, building blocks or kinetic sand can be great gift ideas for a child with sensory processing disorder. Avoid toys with flashing lights or loud noises.

Lighting can significantly reduce visual sensory overload, create a more peaceful, calming environment with dimming lights, lava light or a nightlight.

For Children who are Sensory Processing Seekers

Hyposensitive (under-responsive)

Sensory swings provide proprioceptive input for a child who has sensory processing disorder. (body awareness) This can be very calming for those who crave more sensory input.

To meet a child's oral sensory needs, chewelry and oral motor tools can be particularly helpful for children who mouth objects to self-regulate. These products should be safe and made from non-toxic materials. Always ask your child's OT or medical professional which products would be best for your child and their sensory needs.

Sensory tools and sensory toys that vibrate can provide a stimulating sensory experience, particularly for children who seek more intense input.

Another great sensory gift idea would be textured balls, fidgets or sensory brushes. These sensory tools can provide tactile stimulation and help improve hand-eye coordination.

Active play equipment are great sensory gift ideas such as a trampolines (with appropriate safety measures), climbing structures or obstacle courses that provide your child with the proprioceptive input they need.

Sensory Gifts Ideas for Sensory Regulation

Creating sensory bins can be a great sensory gift idea. They can be easy to make and easier to purchase but the possibilities are endless. Fill a bin with rice, beans or pasta and add scoops, cups or some small toys for sensory exploration. Sensory bins can be very calming or stimulating depending on the sensory fillings chosen for the bin.

Sensory fidgets help children self-regulate in several different settings. Some common fidgets are putty, stress balls or textured sensory balls. When choosing fidgets for your child, choose options that are quiet and won't distract others.

The visual movement of a lava lamp or bubble column can be soothing and captivating. They provide a calming environment for a child with sensory differences.

Sensory play dough or clay can be very a very therapeutic tactile sensory gift idea for a child.

Important Things To Consider for Sensory Gift Ideas

There are a lot of benefits for children who use sensory tools. It is important to always ensure that all sensory gifts are age-appropriate and free from choking hazards. Prioritize safety when choosing sensory tools as gifts.

Consider your child's specific sensory needs and their sensory diet when choosing sensory tools.

Always consult with a child's parents or the child's therapists/medical professional when choosing just the right sensory gift for a child. They can provide valuable insights into the child's sensory needs, sensory diet and the child's sensory preferences.

Not all children benefit from using the same sensory toys and tools. Each child has different needs and a sensory tool that is great for one child, won't be great for another because all children have different sensory needs. Sensory play and sensory tools will be different for each child because they have their own sensory diet.

Wrap gifts in calming colors and avoid overwhelming packaging that can be too difficult for a child to open. Some children do not like wrapping paper or the sound of unwrapping a gift and would prefer a gift bag. Ask their parents or the child for their preferences.

Choosing a gift for a child with sensory processing difficulties is much more than picking out a toy for them. It's about understanding their unique sensory needs and finding items that support their sensory diet and development.

If you carefully consider their sensitivities and preferences, you can choose a sensory gift that is not just fun but also therapeutic and beneficial for them. The thoughtfulness behind a gift will always be appreciated the most.

It is very important to always consult with a child's parents, occupational therapist or a medical professional about the sensory tools that are just right for a child's sensory diet, sensory needs and sensory preferences.