How to Find a Suitable Gift for an Autistic Child

Shopping for an autistic child can seem like an impossible task.  After all, many children with severe forms of the condition do not enjoy playing with many of the toys that interest other kids, or even playing with other kids at all.  So what are some great birthday or seasonal gifts to buy if you know or have an autistic child?  

If you are looking to help provide motor skill development while still offering fun, you can consider simple toys such as a hula hoop or a jump rope.  Children with autism usually prefer to play alone as they do not relate to other children easily, so by giving them a ‘one person’ toy you’ll show you understand this. 

Repeated stacking or lining up of objects is one of the characteristic behaviors of Autism, so toys such as colored blocks, Lego, or fuzzy-felt shapes may divert these behaviors away from more destructive outlets – for which the child’s parents will certainly be pleased!  Besides which, these toys are a great deal of fun and can provide hours of entertainment for autistic children.

Another great idea is to choose toys that engage the senses.  Toys that move in predictable visual patterns such as a kaleidoscope, or even plain old-fashioned bubbles can engage the senses and provide great fun and excitement.  Because many autistic children enjoy repetitive motion, you can consider a rocking horse or a swing, both of which make wonderful gifts and again will channel these symptoms into a more socially accepted form.

Children with autism also tend to suffer from loneliness due to an inability to empathize or relate to others.  To help with this, some furry ‘friends’ such as a plush toy or two may give your child something to relate to.  Most children with autism enjoy strict routine and structure in their lives, so a device which provides precise measurements of time or place such as a stopwatch, compass or alarm clock may be greatly enjoyed by older children.

Shopping for an autistic child doesn’t have to be such a big deal.  When you find the right toys for your child, you will find that they can stay engaged and happy for hours on end.