The Christmas countdown is on! If you’re familiar with Christmas shopping, you’ll know it’s not always snowflakes and marshmallows. Finding SEN-friendly Christmas gift ideas for children and teens can be a challenge.
Children with SEN may have additional challenges with certain presents. For example, they may struggle with the textures of some fabrics or find some toys overstimulating. Additionally, Christmas gifts catering for SEN children can provide an opportunity for children to enjoy their interests and build their skills. So, making the right choice really matters.
Not sure where to start? In this article, we’ll take you through 12 of the best SEN-friendly Christmas gift ideas for children and teens.
Why SEN-friendly Christmas gifts are so important
Christmas is a magical time, but it can also be challenging for SEN children. For example, autistic children may struggle with increased social visits, sensory challenges, and unexpected surprises. Even if those surprises are nice (such as gifts), it can help to discuss the details with autistic children in advance, so they know what to expect. Choosing SEN-friendly Christmas gifts can also help to ensure the holiday period is calming and joyful for neurodivergent children.
All children are different, and what suits one young person may not suit another. If you’re not familiar with the child’s needs, it can be helpful to speak with the parents or caregivers, or the young person themselves, before you make a choice. For example, some SEN children may benefit from visually stimulating toys, whilst others may find it overwhelming.
With that said, the gift ideas on this list are great options for your shopping basket this year!
Top 12 best SEN-friendly Christmas gift ideas for children and teens
Sensory toys and gifts
Neurodivergent young people can struggle with sensory stimulation, such as with certain textures, sounds and tastes. However, depending on their needs, SEN children can also be “sensory seeking,” and these gifts below can help them to enjoy their senses.
1. Fidget bracelet
SEN young people, especially those on the autistic spectrum, can find fidget toys very comforting. The best type to buy will depend on the young person. Some may be fascinated by sparkling lights or soothing sounds, whilst others may prefer textures. For example, these fidget bracelets make a great stocking filler, and can help to reduce stress and skin/nail picking.
2. Sensory dark den
Sensory dens make great SEN-friendly Christmas gifts for children who love sensory visuals, like changing colours and glittering lights. They provide a dark space to enjoy sensory lights in the home, which can be very calming for autistic and SEN children.
3. Sensory chews
Some neurodivergent children and teens may prefer chewing or biting to self-regulate. Sensory chew toys can provide a safe outlet for this, as they’re specially made from materials that are free from PVC, latex, and other potentially harmful materials. Plus, they come in lots of cute, fun designs, like this unicorn chew necklace.
Gifts for self regulation
For children with special needs, the world can be very overwhelming. SEN-friendly Christmas gifts include those that support self regulation and help SEN children to feel grounded, even through the intense holiday period.
4. Weighted blanket
Some SEN children and teens may find deep pressure grounding and comforting. Weighted blankets are a great option for this, and they come in a variety of sizes.
Make sure you check the weight first, as weighted blankets should not exceed 10% of the user’s body weight. They’re also only suitable for older children and teens, not infants or small children.
5. Weighted cuddly toy
If a blanket is too impractical, a weighted cuddly toy is another popular SEN-friendly Christmas gift. Cuddly toys or plushies are a popular toy for all children, and weighted versions add an extra level of comfort.
Children can cuddle up with their weighted teddy, or put teddy on their shoulders for calming pressure. Again, these are not suitable for very young children or infants.
6. Colour-changing lamps
As explored, sensory gifts can be very soothing for neurodivergent children and teens. There are lots of different sensory lamps and lights that can provide gentle, relaxing visuals.
For example, bubble tube lights are inspiring to watch, with bubbles, (artificial) fish, and colourful lights. Meanwhile, colour changing mood lights can provide a soothing night light for sleep or rest.
7. Sensory rockers and loungers
If you’re looking for something large-scale, calming rockers or loungers can make a real difference to a SEN young person’s wellbeing.
Rather than being forced to sit still, moving gently back and forth can help neurodivergent children to “stim” and self regulate. Sensory rockers are a great outlet for this.
Meanwhile, for children who prefer a more enclosed space to sit, sensory loungers can make the perfect Christmas present.
Skill and learning toys
Whilst the holidays are a time for fun, SEN-friendly Christmas gifts can also encourage children to develop their skills.
8. Drawing board
It’s a misconception that autistic and SEN kids don’t enjoy being creative. Of course, every child is different, but creative gifts can be an inspiring outlet for neurodivergent children to express themselves. For example, this writing board allows children to create glow-in-the-dark artwork and messages. There’s no mess, and it’s easy to erase and start again.
Learn about how Christmas arts and crafts can enhance SEN children’s learning in our handy guide.
9. Stepping stones
Some SEN children can struggle with coordination and gross motor skills. Stepping stone toys provide a safe and fun way for children to build their spatial awareness and balance.
10. Special interest-related gifts
For autistic children especially, special interests are incredibly important—whether that’s maths, dinosaurs, Barbie dolls, Medieval history, or something else entirely. If you know the young person well, choosing a gift aligned with their special interest is always a thoughtful choice.
It encourages their interests, boosts their mood and confidence, and shows you care.
For example:
– A dinosaur plushie
– A family membership to the Natural History Museum
Practical gifts
11. Sensory adaptive clothing
If you’re considering buying clothes for a neurodivergent child, keep in mind that they’re not always SEN-friendly. Autistic children or those with sensory processing challenges may struggle with certain fabrics or clothing labels.
Adaptive clothing is designed to make clothes comfortable and practical. For example, some adapted pyjamas have hidden labels and flat seams. There are also SEN-friendly seamless socks that make great stocking fillers, as well as soothing weighted hoodies for older children and teens.
12. Communication cards
Some autistic young people are non-speaking, experience situational mutism, or may struggle to speak when overwhelmed. Communication cards provide simple written messages (e.g., “I feel overwhelmed”) that young people can use to express their needs.
They help normalise diverse communication styles. Many also have fun and cute designs, such as these Sensory Overload Communication Cards by autistic artist Lil’ Penguin Studios.
Make this Christmas SENsational for all!
If you’d also like to give the gift of learning and support to a neurodivergent young person, SENsational Tutors is here to help!
Our expert tutors have vast experience helping SEN children to flourish and develop a lifetime love of learning. Visit our Find a Tutor page to discover a truly SENsational tutor for your child!
