Gift ideas for kids with Sensory Processing Disorder

Hone fine motor skills

Many children with sensory issues struggle with fine motor skills. As with any skill, practice makes perfect. Developmental toys that encourage children to practice fine motor tasks help incorporate therapy into playtime. Shop for toys that involve precision, such as Lego building sets or beading projects. Art sets are also great for fine motor skills, especially for children who need to work on proper pencil grip.

Try: The Crayola Color Explosion Glow Board (Toys “R” Us, $16) from Crayola helps fine motor skills.

Occupational therapy for kids with Sensory Processing Disorder consists of therapeutic play to help kids improve sensory integration. Gross motor skills include simple activities like jumping, running and catching a ball. Shop for toys that get kids active and moving. Skip anything too complicated and look for basic items such as large bouncy balls, dance music for kids and play forts.

Try: Go old school with Twister (Hasbro, $17) for a game that encourages kids to move and cooperate.

Stimulate the senses

When you’re shopping for toys that promote sensory integration, try checking in with parents first to get some basic ideas. What one child finds soothing, another might find distressing. You don’t have frame the question with mention of the child’s sensory issues. Just ask what she likes and dislikes. Mini trampolines, rocking toys and swings are usually great and very therapeutic for kids with SPD.

Try: Scooter Boards (Fun and Function, $19) help kids develop balance and spatial awareness.

Have you ever felt fidgety or bitten your nails? Many kids with SPD fidget as a means of tactile stimulation or to calm and focus. Look for toys that kids can fidget with, like small moving puzzle toys that spin or twist. In this case, skip purely therapeutic toys like chewable jewelry that might embarrass a child when presented as a gift. For younger kids, shop for plush toys with weight and texture.

Try: The Cozy Plush Buddy the Monkey (Amazon, $20) can be warmed up in the microwave at bedtime.