Sensory Fun

Choosing a gift for any teenager is tough, now try choosing a gift for an autistic teenager and it can be a real challenge. Usually in December I get lots of questions about gift ideas for autistic teenagers. Every teenager is unique and what he or she will like depends on their personality and special interests.

Start with Special Interests

Special interests are often the key to gift giving success for higher functioning teens with autism or Asperger’s. If the teen you’re buying a gift for has a special interest look for gifts related to it. Some special interests are easy to shop for like trains or dinosaurs. However, if your teen has a very specific interest, like Chinese bridges you better start shopping today! Highly specialized interests can be tough to shop for; don’t wait until the last minute to find the perfect gift only to realize that it’s out of stock!

Visual Items are Usually a Big Hit
Many teens with Autism or Asperger’s are usually very visual. Finding items that are interesting to look at often make great gifts. Here are a few ideas:

• Interesting lamps or lights like lava lamps, volcano lamps, plasma lights or disco balls are popular with any teen and go great in a teen’s room.
• Hoberman Spheres – Pull these sphere’s apart and watch them expand three times their size. Fun to watch and show to others!
• Liquid timers, Sand Panels or Ooze Tubes
• Spinning items

Calming Items Can Be Enjoyable and Helpful
We all have stress in today’s world. Now think about a teenager on the autism spectrum dealing with confusing social situations, class transitions, puberty and more! Helpful and enjoyable gifts for autistic teens are things that are calming.

• Gentle massage and vibration is very calming. When looking at massage items make sure they are not shiatsu massage which can actually be painful. Vibration is the key vibrating pillows, mats, tubes or toys are all very calming.
• Weighted items like weighted vests, lap pads or blankets can be expensive, but can be extremely soothing. If a family member would like to give a special gift weighted items are a great place to start.

I hope these suggestions will help you find the perfect gift for your autistic teen. Many times I have found it’s a process of trial and error. However, these types of items seem to be a hit with any teen especially the light up style lamps.

Good Luck!

Some of My Favorites

Volcano Light

Plasma Light

Hoberman Sphere

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Vibrating Snake

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