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Thursday, February 6, 2025

Sensory-friendly gifting: How to shop for kids on the spectrum 

HANNA RAUWORTH
HANNA RAUWORTH
Hanna Rauworth is the Health & Environmental Reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper, where she covers topics at the intersection of public health, environmental issues, and community impact. With a commitment to storytelling that informs and empowers, she strives to highlight the challenges and solutions shaping the well-being of Indianapolis residents.

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For families with children on the autism spectrum, finding the perfect gift can be a thoughtful way to encourage connection and celebrate their unique interests and needs. But it’s not always easy to know where to start.  

According to the CDC, about 1 in 36 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with autism. These numbers highlight the importance of understanding the unique needs of children on the spectrum, especially during the holidays. 

Young woman playing with games boy in nursery school room
(Photo/Getty)

Brooke Jordan, a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA) with Hopebridge, shared advice on choosing gifts that align with the sensory and developmental needs of children on the spectrum. From sensory-friendly toys to hosting inclusive holiday gatherings, Jordan offers practical tips to make the season more joyful for everyone. 

Cute girl playing developmental game holding cards matching relation by table sitting in playroom with wall behind full of children drawings
(Photo/Getty)

Chat with loved ones about their needs 

Knowing what to expect is essential to being able to accommodate a child on the spectrum for holiday gatherings, according to Jordan. Knowing barriers, boundaries and preferences will all make a change in the routine more comforting.  

Jordan suggests asking about creating quiet places in the home or asking if they have dietary preferences will create a safe space to celebrate. 

“Being open to having guests come to your house that might bring their own food rather than eating the food that you’re working so hard to prepare for the family and not taking offense to that (is a good tip),” Jordan said. 

Ask about sensory sensitivity and seeking when shopping 

Like buying toys for a child not on the spectrum, it’s best to get a feel for what the child in the spectrum likes and dislikes. Asking the parents or loved ones about their favorite activities is always a good place to start, according to Jordan.  

Annoyed little girl covering ears with hands, doesn't want to hear or know something, emotionally reacting to arguing, yellow background
(Photo/Getty)

“We want to make sure that we’re asking about any sensory sensitivity or sensory seeking,” Jordan said. “This will really help decide what kind of toys to look for.” 

Jordan recommends the following toys for children to engage gross motor skills and pretend play: 

  • Pop-up play tents 
  • Small indoor slides 
  • Play-Doh 
  • Sand 
  • Water beads 
  • Magnet tiles 
  • Colored light bulbs or signs 
  • Beanbags or Squishmallows 
  • Storybooks 
  • Kitchen or doctor sets 
  • Play cars and dolls 
colorful wooden bricks on the white background. copy space
(Photo/Getty)

Remember the holidays are a time of joy for everyone involved 

While children on the spectrum may experience life in a different way, it’s important for everyone to remember that the holidays should be enjoyable for everyone, no matter their differences. 

“It’s just as special or a magical time for them as it is for any other kiddos,” Jordan said. “They might experience it in a different way, they might prefer things to be less bright or less loud, or they might want it louder or brighter, but they’re having a positive experience just like the rest of us.” 

For more information, visit hopebridge.com

This reporting is made possible by a grant from the Indianapolis African-American Quality of Life Initiative, empowering our community with essential health insights. https://iaaqli.org/ 

To read more health stories, click here.

Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth. 

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