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MyAutismTeam asked a question 💭
San Francisco, CA
December 2, 2011
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Answer Summary

Members shared creative gift ideas for children with special needs, with a strong preference for experiences over toys, including museum... Read more

Members shared creative gift ideas for children with special needs, with a strong preference for experiences over toys, including museum memberships, theater tickets, zoo visits, and quality time spent together doing activities the child enjoys. Several members emphasized the importance of honoring each child's unique interests and comfort items, even if they seem younger than their age, noting that familiar movies, music, or toys provide emotional security and are not a reflection of cognitive ability. Practical suggestions ranged from magazine subscriptions and educational tech like LeapPads to arts and crafts supplies, cameras for distant family connections, and sensory-friendly toys from specialty retailers like Fat Brain Toys.

A MyAutismTeam Member

Love, support, and their time. :)

December 3, 2011
A MyAutismTeam Member

understanding and genuine interest in them. I also suggest family members taking each of my kids out to do something fun rather than give them a present. Memories last longer than toys.

December 6, 2011
A MyAutismTeam Member

I agree with all of the above, but if they want something a child can unwrap and play with immediately, I'm becoming a fan of www.fatbrain.com. Love the Reptangles (turtles that can be put together in all sorts of geometric formations), Dado Cubes, Dado Planks, and for older kids and adults, this cool, 30-sided geometric ball held together with magnets. Google it: "Ball of Whacks". I bought some for some older kids in my school district as an age-appropriate fidget, and they love it.

December 8, 2011
A MyAutismTeam Member

Vtech games for his inno pad he loves getting on computers and smartphones. He loves anything with a touch screen.

December 9, 2011
A MyAutismTeam Member

ARTS, LOVE, AND SUPPORT

December 8, 2011

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