The Ultimate Gift Guide for Teenagers With Autism

Gift-giving is all about showing someone you care and making them happy. Even so, we often stress about finding the “perfect” gift and spend hours scrolling through Amazon with a single person in mind. 

On top of that, shopping for teenagers is no easy task! While this statement is true for neurotypical teens, it’s even more relevant to teenagers with autism. Since the teen’s unique needs should be considered, time, patience, and understanding will come into play when shopping for a teenager with autism. 

For example, a child with sensory overload surely wouldn’t appreciate the popular slime toys. But, on the other hand, perhaps for a different teen who struggles with fine motor skills, kits with a stack of small pieces they need to put together might just cause frustration and go unused.

If you are a relative or friend shopping for a teenager with autism, then even more research might be needed on your part. We recommend asking their parent or guardian some appropriate gift ideas or even what types of gifts you should avoid purchasing. 

Whether you are the guardian of a teenager with autism or simply a caring friend, we want to alleviate the stress of gift-giving for an autistic child and answer some questions both parents and friends might have.

What to Look For in a Gift

Of course, every kid is different. A gift that excites one kid might ultimately bore another one. Keep this in mind when looking for a gift for your teenager with autism. As suggested, there are a few general things to avoid and consider, including the following:

• Developmental needs and skillset
• Personal interests and hobbies
• Sensory communication and needs
• Age recommendations don’t always apply

While it’s good to acknowledge these points, there isn’t any specific set of gifts that teenagers with autism absolutely must have or avoid. Of course, educational and practical gifts are great for teens and their parents, but teens should have fun and enjoy their activities. 

Gifts For Teenagers With Autism

We have gathered tried and true gizmos and gadgets to put together the ultimate gift guide for teenagers with autism in 2021!

Take a look at our ultimate gift guide for teenagers with autism that either boys or girls would enjoy:

Nintendo Switch

A Nintendo Switch just might be on the top of everyone’s wish list this year. So it may or may not come as a surprise that video games can benefit kids by teaching them new skills and methods of communication. In addition, many different games can be played on the Switch, which are both entertaining and educational. 

With the Nintendo Switch, you can convert a home console to a handheld one. This set from Amazon includes everything you need to get set up, including a 3-month Nintendo Switch Online membership and Mario Cart 8. 

Nintendo Switch Games And Accessories

If your teen or friend already owns and loves their Nintendo Switch, then consider adding more games or accessories to their collection!

EOVOLA Accessories Kit for Nintendo Switch

Evola’s accessories kit includes absolutely everything needed to keep a Nintendo Switch organized and protected. In addition, an organization carrier makes the Switch a true travel-friendly console. 

A play stand, game card case, Switch wheels, charging dock, grips, and screen protectors are ALL included in this kit. The only thing missing is the Switch itself!

Just Dance & Wrist Bands for Just Dance 

Games like Just Dance incorporate fun ways to get your teen moving and active. Dancing encourages body awareness which is an added benefit for a teenager with autism. Additionally, they can play Just Dance by themselves or use co-op mode to play with friends and family for fun social interactions. 

We love using Just Dance to work out with the whole family, but holding onto the two controllers can be tricky and bothersome. Adding wrist bands is a handy way to keep up the fun and dance freely without accidentally throwing the controllers around. 

Apple iPad

iPad’s might just be the ultimate gift for a teenager since they can be used as entertainment, education, a creative outlet, and a communication tool, among others. Compared to other tablets, Apple is preferred since it’s an easy-to-use and customizable device. 

You can find countless apps that meet any need or want. For example, many teens with autism have found their voice thanks to apps that help them communicate with friends, family, schoolmates, and teachers. In addition, since it is lightweight and small, iPad’s portable and encourages independence. 

LEGO THE LEGO MOVIE 2 Movie Maker

While playing with Legos might not be everyone’s cup of tea, Lego therapy has been shown to improve collaboration, communication, and fine motor skills. Putting together and playing with Legos also encourages imagination.

The Lego Movie 2 Movie Maker set comes with 482 pieces, including figurines, scene-setting backdrops, and more. However, what set’s this Lego kit apart from others, is the accompanying movie maker app that you can download on a phone or tablet to turn you into an authentic movie director. 

Singing Machine Karaoke

Encourage a teen with autism to express themselves and step out of their comfort zone with the help of a karaoke machine. The Singing Machine Karaoke system hooks up to a TV screen through cables to read the lyrics while a CD player, Bluetooth, and USB can all be used to connect the audio.

LED disco lights contribute to making it a true party ambiance! A dimmer setting allows you to control the changing colors and lights if it results in overwhelming for your teen.

Dance Mat Game 

A dance mat is a great way to get a teen dancing to their favorite songs! You can hook up Yuffie’s mat to any PC or TV with an adapter for a quick and convenient setup. 

Compared with purchasing Just Dance and the Nintendo Switch, a dance mat is an easy and affordable alternative. Additionally, they can play other touch-sensitive games with the Yufee Dance Mat.

Professional Colored Pencils Set of 72 Color Pencils with Zipper Case & Sea Life Color by Number Coloring Book

For a creative and art-loving teen, a set of professional colored pencils is the perfect gift. Orionstar’s complete set of 72 pigmented pencils comes with a nylon portable case. 

Make it a complete gift set by adding a color book. Color by number books uses simple color keys to turn anybody into an artist. This Sea Life-themed book is just what any teen needs to slow down and relax. 

Combining the portable colored pencil case with a color by number book is excellent for teens when they are on the go or in new environments and need to keep their minds calm.

Bose QuietComfort 45 Bluetooth Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones

Bose QuietComfort Headphones are an excellent gift for a music-loving teenager. The fact that these headphones are noise canceling makes them ideal for someone with auditory sensitivities. Many like to use noise-canceling headphones when concentrating on schoolwork, while others like to block out overwhelming background noise while going out in public. 

Bose QuietComfort is made from plush synthetic leather, meaning it’s as comfortable as it is durable. In addition, it has a 24-hour battery life and comes with a carrying case to make it easily portable. 

Canon PowerShot SX530 Digital Camera w/ 50X Optical Zoom

Literally and figuratively speaking, cameras offer a different point of view. They can be used to create art and as a form of communication. Teaching photography and videography to a teenager with autism can reap many benefits, and it could even spark a newfound passion. 

50x optical zoom results in detailed photos and videos of wildlife, people, landscapes, or things either up close or from far away. Canon Powershot SX530 has many features, including wireless connectivity, high-sensitivity sensors, and high-speed AF. 

The Ultimate Gift For Your Teenager With Autism

From electronics to art supplies, no doubt you will find the right gift. Spotting the perfect gift for someone is like searching the beach for the right shells. It takes a bit of time and patience, but it is well worth the effort once you see a big smile on the recipient’s face. 

We outlined our ultimate gift guide of products we have come to love for teens with autism, but we would love to hear from you! So please share with us what’s on your gift list this year for your teenager with autism. 

Best Games for Autistic Toddlers in 2021

A child’s brain is a truly incredible thing. While the brain will continue to grow well into the adult years, Dr. Eric Chudler, a research neuroscientist at the University of Washington, suggests that by the time a child is two years old, their brain will have already “grown to 80% of its adult size”.

Brain growth occurs not only in physical size, but the cognitive ability and critical thinking significantly increase during the early years. Between the ages of one and three, toddlers will learn faster than they ever will in their teenage and adult lives. Their ability to think and understand directly contributes to the development of fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

While it’s true that kids, both with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD), experience this rapid cerebral development, the way they learn and understand new things greatly varies from child to child. So when using toys and games to aid in this process, choosing the right ones can make all the difference.

How Games Promote Healthy Brain Development

Toys and games serve a dual purpose. First, they can entertain your child, keeping their young mind occupied for hours while simultaneously fine-tuning their motor skills and sensory processing ability.

Take, for example, simple wooden blocks. To a grown adult, the simple act of placing one block on top of another is far from groundbreaking. But for a curious toddler. Stacking blocks teach them coordination, focus, and even basic comprehension of gravity. 

Utilizing lights, sounds, colors, and textures, designers of children’s games often use their products to target the development of a specific skill.

It’s important to remember that your son or daughter isn’t just playing; they are learning. Playtime will build the foundation for vital skills that they will continue to develop for the rest of their lives.

Which Games are Best for Children with Autism?

Buying games for autistic children is challenging to say the least. Unfortunately, there is no special aisle at your local supermarket dedicated to “special needs” products. On top of that, autistic kids can be particularly picky regarding their toys and games. Often, a child will latch on to their favorite toy refuse to play with anything else. So, where can you find games that are both fun and educational for your child?

Thankfully, due in part to the incredible community of parents of autistic children, there is an ever-expanding online supply of games specifically designed to help kids on the spectrum learn and grow. But how do you know which games are suitable for your son or daughter? Here are a few factors to consider before purchasing.

Age and Ability– Obviously, a one-year-old child isn’t going to be able to do the same things that a three-year-old can. So when purchasing games, keep your child’s skill level in mind. Overly simple games will bore older toddlers, while more complicated ones can confuse or even overwhelm younger kids.

Interests – Even at an early age, kids develop preferences. Some like puzzles; for others, it may be cars or animals. Take these interests into account when purchasing games. Catering to things they like will help to promote an enjoyable learning environment.

Purpose of the Game – Different games are designed to teach different skills. Ask yourself: What do I want to teach my child with this game? Motor skills? Social interaction? Sensory exploration? Pinpointing a specific goal will help you narrow your search.

Hazards – Not all games are created equally. Unfortunately, some companies brand their products as “specifically designed for kids with ASD” only to sell to a broader market. Games like these often have small parts and magnets that pose a real danger to an autistic child. Be sure to research a game and its manufacturer thoroughly before buying. 

Our Favorite Games for Autistic Kids

If you are confused about where to start looking for games for your autistic child, don’t fret! Here is a list of our favorite learning games that your son or daughter is sure to love.

UGEMIA Popping Bubble Puzzle – Our Favorite Anxiety Relief Game

Popping bubble toys have exploded in popularity this year, and for a good reason. The simplistic silicone design of these toys can relax a child by providing stimulating haptic and aural feedback.

UGEMIA has taken the popular toys a step further, turning them into a fun and engaging game. This puzzle not only provides all the stress-relieving benefits of traditional popping toys but adds a learning aspect to its design, allowing a child to organize the different geometric shapes into patterns that fit together.

All the pieces are waterproof and easily cleaned with soap and water, making this popping bubble puzzle an excellent game for nonverbal autistic children or little ones who like to put things in their mouths.

PEPKOO iPad Case for Kids – A Must-Have Accessory for ELearning

Kids today are growing up in a digital age. While there are differing opinions regarding autism and video games, many educational apps are available to assist toddlers with ASD learn and develop vital cognitive skills.

The PEPKOO protective iPad case is designed with toddlers in mind. The soft, lightweight, EVA foam construction is easy on little hands and will protect your device from any knocks and drops, while the two-piece design helps to keep your Ipad firmly secured inside the case.

Interactive Whack A Frog Game – A Game Your Kids will Love for Years to Come

This at-home take on the arcade classic: “whack a mole” is a great interactive game that teaches focus and hand-eye coordination. Utilizing lights and sounds, “Whack A Frog” is designed to heighten your son or daughter’s ability to process sensory stimuli.

Your child can play either alone or with a partner making it an excellent autism game for social skills, teaching them how to take turns and work as a team. 

“Whack A Frog” is easy to learn, and as your child builds up their fine motor skills, they can grow into the more challenging game modes. This is a game that your child will be able to enjoy for years to come.

eeBoo I Never Forget a Face Memory Matching Game for Kids – A Fun way to Practice memory and Social Skills

Traditional board games are virtually impossible for kids with ASD. Even games intended for small children usually require prolonged focus and have tiny pieces that create a choking hazard. However, “Never Forget a Face” is different and one of the best board games for autism.

This matching game is comprised of 48 large, durable cards that help improve your child’s memory and recognition skills. Additionally, when played together with either a parent or sibling, “Never Forget a Face” provides an excellent oppourtunity to hone a child’s cooperation and social skills.

Fun and Function -Sensory Mini Mats – Create your Own Sensory Games

Many kids on the spectrum have a heightened sensory perception which can affect them in one of two ways when it comes to physically touching things. They may quickly become overwhelmed by textures they find unpleasant. Or on the other hand, with textures they find comforting, they might want to continuously explore the feeling, touching an object with their hands, feet, and/or face. The latter is a healthy part of sensory processing, and “Fun and Function Sensory Mini Mats” allow your child to explore six unique textures.

While these “Sensory Mini Mats” themselves are not a game, their versatility opens the door for many creative applications. Because they won’t slide around on the floor and have built-in grommets for wall mounting, you and your child can create your own games and activities exploring the sense of touch.

Finding the Right Games for Your Child with Autism

Buying games for your autistic child isn’t easy. Of course, games should be fun and engaging, so your son or daughter enjoys playing with them. Still, at the same time, you also want them to help in developing their social skills, hand-eye coordination their ability to process sensory input.

Remember, every kid is different, and it’s going to take some time to learn how your child learns, plays, and develops mentally. You won’t know what your son or daughter likes most of the time until you both give it a try. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different toys and games until you find the ones that best suit your family’s needs.

If you are confused or have questions about which games are best for your child, don’t hold back from asking your child’s doctor or therapist. They can help you pinpoint the best options for your son or daughter’s specific circumstances. 

Best Toys For Autistic Toddlers 2021

With endless options available online and in stores, any parent will tell you that finding engaging toys for your toddler can be a massive challenge. If your son or daughter has autism spectrum disorder, the situation becomes even more difficult. 

For Autistic kids, the first three years of life are crucial in developing motor skills and mental comprehension. While the vast majority of toys on the market are built solely for entertainment, there is a growing supply of toys specifically designed to accelerate the learning process for kids on the spectrum. These toys are indeed a “win-win” for autistic children. They get to have fun while developing vital skills that they will use for the rest of their life.

Suitable toys can accelerate this process. It also presents the opportunity to encourage new skills in your toddler. With so many different ways to digest information and learn new things, the same is true when teaching our little ones. Toys can make a great teaching aid for even the youngest of children.

For example, if your toddler is struggling with their fine motor skills, why not look into a toy that will capture their attention while simultaneously encouraging new skills? Likewise, if your toddler struggles with sensory overload, why not take a look at toys that provide them with comfort in stressful environments? There is a lot to consider choosing new toys for your growing toddler.

It Can Be Hard to Choose The Right Toys For Autistic Toddlers

As parents, we are protective of our children in every sense, even when it comes to something as simple as their toys. But, unfortunately, circumstances can come up that leave it difficult for us or others to find the best toys for autistic children. So, whether you are buying for your child or a friend, there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure that your child’s toys are safe and promote a healthy learning environment.

• Cognitive level. Well-intentioned friends and family members may eagerly have a shopping list of toys they want to gift you, son, or daughter. However, they probably don’t fully grasp your child’s needs and may purchase toys outside your toddler’s cognitive level or social ability. 
• Differing abilities. Although their cousins and playmates of the same age enjoy certain toys, these may not be in the best interest of a child with Autism. Everyone’s interests and abilities are different and should be taken into consideration when toy shopping.
• Choking Hazards. Toddlers diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) need to avoid certain toys deemed ‘safe’ and familiar in other households. For example, magnetic toys can be readily purchased online and in stores but are extremely dangerous for children with Autism. Therefore, magnetic toys and those with small parts and pieces are best left alone.
• Over-Stimulating Toys. Textures, loud noises, and bright flashing lights can all lead to overstimulation. This especially holds if your toddler struggles with sensory issues. So while it’s probably best to steer clear from buying them a drum set, controlled textures and noises can be beneficial and even therapeutic. 

What Are Good Toys For Autistic Toddlers?

Although there are many toys toddlers with Autism should avoid, there are still thousands of awesome toys they can enjoy! Toys with a dual purpose can be a great asset to both parents and children. Of course, every child is different, but below are a few items to consider to make a good toy for a toddler with Autism.

• Interactive toys promote an inviting environment and even encourage communication with those around them.
• Sensory toys can help soothe or relax a child during stressful and overwhelming situations. 
• Occupational therapists recommended toys have the seal of approval for improving cognitive behavior, coordination, and movement skills.
• Educational toys are just that, educational! Depending on the toddler’s developmental stage, educational toys can be a great way to teach something new in a subtle way that might otherwise be a challenge to learn. 

The 7 Best Toys For Autistic Toddlers

While there are infinite great toys out there, we have whittled it down to 7 of our favorite tried and true toys for children with Autism. These specific tools and therapeutic toys are affordable and easy to find to be accessible to anyone.  

Mirari Pop! Pop! Piano — The Best Musical Toy For Toddlers With Autism

When finding musical toys for autistic toddlers, it’s important to note that some children may struggle with sounds or loud noises to the point where it becomes painful to their senses. The Mirari Pop! Pop! Piano allows your child to be in control of their surroundings as their touch is what sets off the noise. 

This colorful toy is also milder than other musical instruments. In addition, music therapy has been clinically proven to improve behavior and communication as the toddlers naturally feel motivated to participate.

BunMo Pop Tubes Sensory Toys — The Best Learning Toy For Autistic Children

Learning toys for autistic toddlers does not need to be complex or challenging. Even a simple toy that helps train their tiny fingers while developing fine motor skills can entertain your child for hours. For example, pop tubes are practical tools for physical therapy toys. Their bending abilities teach them how to use their tiny hands, and their imaginative fun encourages self-learning. 

OrthoDon Sensory Puzzle Floor Mats — The Best Building Toy For Toddlers with Autism

Orthopedic floor mats have so many great benefits. Not only are they a fascinating toy for your toddler, but the variety of textures on each mat stimulates the sense of touch. In addition, these bright and patterned mats provide much-needed sensory input as four unique textures are included in one set. 

Make this safe set of building mats a permanent feature in your child’s room to boost blood circulation and early intervention! 

Neliblu Wacky Tracks Snap and Click Fidget Toys — The Best Calming Toy For Toddlers with Autism

There’s a reason why fidget toys are all the rage lately. Fidget toys, including this Neliblu Wacky Tracks Snap and Click one, have been an aid to many in high-stress situations as they quickly offer a distraction for the senses. 

These compact toys can provide great comfort to your little one while also unyielding their creative side, making them good toys for kids with Autism. A pack of four allows you to keep one in the car, your purse, the playroom, and the bedroom!

Huggaroo Lamb Weighted Lap Pad  — The Best Portable Toy For Toddlers with Autism

Sensory weighted lap pads are essential in many families for car rides, appointments, and for simply snuggling at home. This Huggaroo Lap Pad comes as a lamb or a puppy for more imaginative fun. 

Deep pressure from the 3.6 pounds contributes to a relaxing and calm environment. These are especially beneficial for doctor’s appointments or visits to new places that may typically invoke stress. Your toddler will never want to be without their furry friend. 

MOLUK Bilibo — The Best Active Play Toy For Toddlers with Autism

Exercise and active play that focuses on gross motor skills improve behavioral issues. Durable Bilibo’s could be one of the best ways your little one can unleash their energy. They provide countless hours of safe, imaginative play at home, the backyard, or the park! 

These unique toys help to develop creativity, coordination, and balance. There is no limit on how you can use your Bilibo. 

Melissa & Doug Let’s Play House Dust! Sweep! Mop!— The Best Pretend Play Toy for Toddlers with Autism 

Pretend play instills a space for your child to experiment and communicate. Melissa & Doug’s fan-favorite set of wooden cleaning toys helps do just this while instilling values like responsibility and ownership at a young age. 

Engaging toys such as this one promote the connection between young playmates. We especially love how these wooden toys are meant to last for years to come!

Choosing Toys For Your Child With Autism

Finding toys that encourage developmental skills doesn’t have to be a chore anymore. However, flashy lights and loud noises can quickly distract and overwhelm children with Autism, so it’s best to avoid toys of this nature. Thankfully, there are many others to choose from that are entertaining, soothing, and educational. 

Again, these are our favorite toys, but, as parents, you know your child’s unique needs and circumstances. You know what they enjoy and how they learn best. If you are a friend or family member of a child with Autism, these are simply some suggestions and points to consider before gift-giving. You may be concerned about offending or misjudging, but it doesn’t hurt to ask the parent their limits or interests. They will no doubt appreciate the sincere interest you have in their little ones.

We would love to hear from YOU! Post a comment below telling us what toys your autistic toddler loved or will soon be trying from our list.

Buying presents for kids can be a real challenge. For parents with kids on the spectrum, we’re all wondering just how to find the perfect gift time and time again.

Of course, kids on the spectrum are just that, kids! Their interests may differ from their peers, but the perfect toy is out there for them! All that’s left if for you to find it.