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.
