20 Christmas Gift Ideas for Your Loved Ones With Autism

Do you have a loved one with autism? Autism is a condition that affects a person’s sensory experiences and emotional responses. Everyone experiences autism differently, and people on the autism spectrum will have different items that they enjoy and find stimulating compared with neurotypical people. It can be difficult to know what gifts are a good option for the person in your life who has autism. We have compiled the ultimate list of present ideas – with options for kids, teenagers and adults – so that you can find the perfect gift for your autistic loved one.

Autism in Australia 

Autism is a condition that affects the ways in which a person thinks and feels, as well as how they experience the world around them. Autism exists on a spectrum, meaning that it is different for everyone. It is also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD. People with autism are born with the condition, but it may only be diagnosed later in life. In Australia, it is estimated that 1 in 150 people are on the autism spectrum. Because some people’s autism symptoms are very mild, autistic people may never know they have the condition; however, awareness and recognition of autism, and the many ways it can present in different individuals, is growing in Australian society.

Indicators of autism

There are certain indicators or symptoms that are associated with autism. However, because the condition exists on a spectrum, many people with autism will display only some of these signs or will do so very subtly.

A common characteristic of people with autism is that they have difficulty with social interactions and communication. This is because of the way an autistic person’s brain works, which is different to neurotypical people. Some of the signs associated with this difficulty include:

• Anxiety in social situations
• Difficulty maintaining romantic relationships and friendships
• Feeling overwhelmed in situations with a lot of people
• Struggling to communicate their thoughts and feelings
• Difficulty maintaining eye contact
• Aversion to normal social touching, such as handshakes.

Another typical sign is repetitive behaviours and special interests. People with autism will often have a certain interest area that they pay close attention to, which is why some people with autism can appear to be ‘geniuses’ in a specific area. They often retain information better than neurotypical people. Other signs associated with this include:

• Repetitive speech
• Repeating phrases spoken by others
• Excessively following routines or patterns
• Finding changes to routines difficult to manage.

Finally, people on the autism spectrum experience the environment differently. This includes extreme sensitivity to some sensory input, such as sound, light and texture. This can cause them to become overwhelmed easily and to struggle to regulate their emotions.

Autism presents differently in boys and girls, with boys typically showing more of the common signs of autism and girls being better at ‘masking’, or hiding their autistic characteristics so they fit in. Boys are more likely to be aggressive and have difficulty controlling their emotions in public. Girls are more likely to copy others in social situations and to demonstrate shy and passive behaviour.

Causes of autism

Autism is caused by the way the brain develops when a baby is in the womb. There is no known reason why some babies are born with autism and others are not, but there is an increased likelihood of being on the autism spectrum if you have a family history of the condition. It is possible that there are environmental factors involved in autism, but more research is needed. It is important to note that autism is not caused by vaccinations, foods, or lifestyle factors.

Diagnosis of autism

Most people are diagnosed with autism as a young age. If you think your child might have autism, it’s important to speak with your doctor and receive a diagnosis as early as possible so you can begin using strategies to help.

Some of the first signs that parents might notice in babies include a lack of eye contact or unwillingness to smile. In toddlers, some common signs are repetitive play or lack of interest in interacting with other children. Older children may avoid social situations or have strong emotional responses.

Adults who receive an autism diagnosis often report feeling like they have never properly fitted in or been comfortable in social settings. They often have mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression.  

20 Christmas gift ideas for people with autism

Looking to spoil your loved one with autism this festive season? There are so many beautiful and practical gifts you can choose that are extra special for people on the autism spectrum. From sensory presents that stimulate autistic people, to calming gifts that help them chill out, to items to promote their interests and the things that they love – we have all the suggestions you need to make Christmas time easy.

Gifts for children with autism

Children with autism often won’t have the same interest in traditional toys and will find a different set of items more engaging. When it comes to buying presents for autistic kids, sensory items that focus on touch, sound, lights and movement are ideal.

1. Fidget toys

People with autism often display repetitive behaviour or fidgeting. Why not make this into a fun game with a specialised sensory ‘fidget kit’ that contains heaps of different colours and textures in a range of fun, small-sized toys. They’re perfect for carrying around in a school bag or pencil case and can keep distracted little hands busy.

2. Sensory swing

A relaxing hammock swing promotes coordination and balance, strengthens muscles, and improves motor skills. It can also create a safe space for autistic children to relax and have time out.

3. Weighted animal toy

Weighted toys provide a comforting and familiar object to help autistic children ground themselves in space and adapt to new surroundings. These toys can help children regulate emotion and remain calm and happy.

 4. Stars projector

Create an amazing sensory light experience at home with this stars projector. It uses holographic technology and illuminates the ceiling and walls with your own personal galaxy.

5. Peanut ball

These peanut-shaped balls have been shown to provide an ideal medium for balance training, strengthening and proprioceptive activities. The contoured saddle provides stability and is shaped for forward and back rotation as well as side to side. It’s the ideal way for autistic kids to have fun and exercise at the same time.

 6. White noise machine

White noise is extremely soothing for young children with autism, as it removes the sensory input on specific sounds and can help to regulate emotion. White noise machines come in a range of sizes, including small and portable options.

 7. Lava lamp

Old school lava lamps can provide visual stimulation and a point of focus for autistic children. They can be chosen in a range of colours and the “lava” moves at a calming, slow pace to relax and soothe.

 8. Decision making game 

This fun game ‘What Should I Do Now?’ teaches young people with autism how to respond in different social situations. It helps people to learn problem solving skills for a variety of difficult scenarios they may face in their daily lives.

9. Drum kit

Kids with autism often love making music and sound, and they need a way to burn energy. A beginner’s drum kit is the perfect way to introduce them to instruments.

10. Trampoline 

For kids who love to move and experience the sensory thrill of bouncing, trampolines make the perfect gift! Modern trampolines are safe and spring-free.

Gifts for adults with Autism 

Adults with autism will have a broad range of interests and levels of engagement with specific items. The best way to decide on good gifts for autistic adults is to ask them what kind of present they would appreciate and what they are interested in. Some ideas to get started include relaxing sensory items, things to help with organisation, and objects for the home.

1. Weighted blanket

Autistic people often enjoy the comforting feeling of being enveloped in a weighted blanket. These have been shown to help calm stressed people with autism, and they can help with sleep and anxiety issues.

2. Smart watch                  

Because autistic people can find it more difficult to remain organised and on task, a smart watch that has everything they need on their wrist can be a highly helpful tool for everyday life. Smart watches can be programmed with reminders for important activities, and they also have settings to improve the functionality for autistic people.

 3. Keychain fidget

For satisfying tactile fidgeting, this keychain fidget toy includes interlocking rings of different sizes and textures to engage sensory seekers. It is small and discreet enough to be perfect for use by adults.

 4. Noise cancelling headphones 

The perfect way to avoid sensory overload in noisy environments is with a pair of quality noise cancelling headphones. These can be chosen in your loved one’s favourite colour and style, and used when out in public, in crowded environments, and more.

 5. Massage glove

For a pleasant sensory experience that an autistic person can enjoy on their own, try this massage glove. It can be used in the bath or shower, and is designed to relieve muscle tension.

6. Weighted lap pad 

A weighted lap pad can assist autistic people to remain focused and calm when sitting down, such as in the workplace or when studying. Place the weighted pad across the lap of the person with autism to calm restless legs.

 7. Aquarium

A home fish tank is a relaxing thing to watch and enjoy. Colourful fish with lights and bubbles are very calming to people with autism. It also presents a fun thing to take care of.

8. Essential oil kit

Essential oils have been shown to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. A kit with a diffuser and a range of oils makes a great gift for an autistic adult. Check with them first in case there are any scents they don’t like.

9. Fidget spinner

Not just for kids, these fidget toys are a stimulating toy that many autistic people enjoy using.

10. Special interest gift

Remember, autistic people often have a special interest or something they really love. Find out more about this interest and buy them a present that is related to this – it will be very appreciated!

How Homage can help

The team of Care Pros at Homage are available to assist you if you have autism or you have a loved one on the autism spectrum. They can help you at Christmas time, and throughout the year, to manage day to day activities and enjoy a full and quality life.

Would you or a loved one benefit from having someone to join you when you go gift shopping? Homage Care Professional’s offer companionship services, who can spend time with your loved ones, filling their day with companionship and activities they enjoy. Navigating the crowds of Christmas time can be overwhelming, especially for people who have autism and find noisy and busy spaces to be stressful or anxiety-inducing. Having a compassionate and experienced carer with you can make the experience more enjoyable. They can also help to move through busy spaces, organise transport to and from shopping centres, and offer a kind and caring presence to discuss gift ideas.

Homage services to assist with autism are available to access using NDIS funding. Find out more about government and private funding options available on the Homage website.

Autism is a condition with a wide range of presentations, and no two autistic people are the same. To neurotypical people, some of the experiences and reactions of people with autism might seem strange or unusual, but awareness and understanding of this condition is growing within Australian society. If you have a loved one with autism – whether they are a child, teenager, or adult – purchasing the perfect Christmas gift for them can seem tricky. However, with a greater understanding of the sensory experiences that your loved one with autism enjoys and is stimulated by, you can choose a gift that they will cherish.

Provide the best care to your loved one today!