TOP 10 : Calming Gifts for Highly Sensitive Children

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Hey there!

Finding the perfect gift for highly sensitive children can feel like solving a fun little puzzle!

These kiddos experience life in vivid colors and deep emotions, which means their needs are unique.

But don’t worry — with the right gift, you can bring calm, comfort, and a big sense of security to their world.

Let’s explore how thoughtful gifts can make them feel safe, happy, and totally relaxed 😊!

Weighted blankets are a popular choice for providing comfort to highly sensitive children.

These blankets apply gentle pressure, creating a sense of security and reducing anxiety.

What size weighted blanket should I get for my child?

Generally, a child's weighted blanket should weigh 10% of the child's body weight.

Here are some general recommendations:

1. Body Size: Choose a blanket that is approximately 10% of the individual's body weight. For example, a 15-pound blanket may be suitable for someone weighing 150 pounds.

2. Blanket Size: Consider standard bedding options like twin, full, queen, or king sizes.

3. Personal Preference: Some may prefer larger blankets for added coziness, while others may prefer a smaller size for targeted pressure.

These blankets are available at a range of prices, and you can find some comparisons here.

SHOP ON AMAZON:

1. Weighted Idea ($)

2. Topcee ($)

3. Alansma ($)

4. Samia Luxe ($$)

1. Weighted Blankets 🛌

2. Sensory Swing🧘‍♂️

A sensory swing provides a calming and soothing experience for children, especially those with sensory processing challenges.

By gently rocking or spinning, it helps regulate emotions, enhance body awareness, and promote relaxation.

Whether used in a sensory room or at home, these swings create a safe space where kids can find comfort, improve focus, and feel more grounded.

Shop at Sensory Harbor

3. CMY Cubes

This magical cube appears to create an ever-changing spectrum of color, providing you with endless enjoyment.

Each face of the translucent cube is coated in electromagnetically subtractive materials which at first, appear as cyan, magenta, or yellow.

Twisting and turning the geometry creates new combinations, resulting in the appearance of new colors.

CMY Cubes are a first of its kind and have taken the world by storm.

From kids to adults, hobbyists, teachers & people with learning difficulties - it's the perfect gift for everyone.

Shopt at CMY Cubes!

4. Noise-Canceling Headphones 🎧

Highly sensitive children are often more affected by loud noises.

Noise-canceling headphones can provide a safe space by reducing auditory stimuli and allowing your child to concentrate or relax without distractions.

We got PROTEAR children's Earmuffs noise-canceling headphones for our child, and they're a game-changer!

Plus, they come in fun designs and are adjustable. A must-try for a serene space! 🎧🌟

SHOP ON AMAZON:

1. PROTEAR ($)

2. PROHEAR ($)

3. SNUG KIDS ($)

4. ALPINE MUFFY KIDS ($$)

5. Kinetic Sand 🏖️

Kinetic sand can calm neurodivergent kids through its soft texture and repetitive motions.

Squishing and molding it offers soothing tactile input, reducing anxiety.

It’s also mess-free, making sensory play more predictable, and provides a creative outlet to help kids feel grounded and relaxed.

Look at this satisfying video...

SHOP ON AMAZON:

1. Sandbox Playset ($)

2. Construction Site Folding Sandbox ($)

3. Sandisfying Playset ($)

4. Ice Cream Playset ($)

6. Fiber Optic Lamp / Moon Lamp

Fiber optic lamps are like a cozy light show for neurodivergent kids!

The soft, changing colors create a calming atmosphere, helping ease those intense emotions.

The gentle glow offers a peaceful focus, and some lamps even allow kids to touch the fibers, adding a soothing sensory element.

It’s the perfect way to bring comfort without overstimulation!

SHOP ON AMAZON:

1. Electric Jellyfish Tank Table Lamp ($)

2. Crystal base Lamp ($)

3. Moon Lamp ($)

4. Willow Tree ($)

7. Breathing Ball 😌

Chill out and zen up with this cool breathing ball!

It's like a little inflatable buddy that helps you relax your mind and body.

Just take a deep breath, and as you exhale, give this ball a little squish.

8. Paint with Water Books🖌️

Paint and relax with this type of book! Just add water to bring vibrant colors to life—no spills, no stress. Ideal for a first art activity and perfect as kids' party favors!

It's instant stress relief, a dash of mindfulness, and a ton of fun.

SHOP ON AMAZON:

1. Bluey Aqua Art Reusable ($)

2. Melissa & Doug On the Go Water Wow! ($)

3. Mess Free Watercolor Painting Kit ($)

4. YPLUS Paint with Water Books ($)

9. Air-Dry Clay 🖐🏼

Playing with air-dry clay is our family’s go-to for fun!

It’s a sensory dream for highly sensitive kiddos—super soft, mess-free, and oh-so-calming.

They can mold, squish, and shape without feeling overwhelmed.

And guess what? We’re sharing our creative journey on YouTube!

Watch our mother-daughter duo bring tiny creations to life, like:

• Mini Cookies,

• Tiny Macarons,

• and Ice creams,

• and much more, like this Cute Octopus Pencil Topper 🐙✏️

SHOP ON AMAZON:

1. Bluey Aqua Art Reusable ($)

2. Melissa & Doug On the Go Water Wow! ($)

3. Mess Free Watercolor Painting Kit ($)

4. YPLUS Paint with Water Books ($)

Gift A sensory toy subscription!

• Each month's box is carefully curated by a licensed occupational therapist and includes a description card inside

• Items are therapeutic & can be calming or help manage anxiety

• Curated for children with sensory needs in mind, but suitable for children of all abilities

• Boxes ship out the first week of each month

10. SENSORY THERA PLAY BOX

These calming gifts are your trusty sidekicks in the quest to help your child master their emotions, kick anxiety to the curb, and wrap them in a cozy security blanket.

Ready for more heartwarming moments with your little one?

If you're smiling and nodding, why not explore more? Check out our other posts for a treasure trove of parenting joy and SEL adventures!

Happy reading! 😊

• 5 Genius Strategies for an Enriching Home Learning Environment

• Little Hearts, Big Smiles: Joyful SEL Activities for Toddler Emotional Well-Being

Have a wonderful day, and keep being the amazing parents that you are! 🌟💕

DdL Mom

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Bold, Easy, Spooky Stuff + Learning Numbers Activities for Kids Ages 3+

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We'd love to hear from you!

Share your thoughts, questions or ideas in the comments below 😊

FAQ: Sensory Toys for Neurodivergent Toddlers

1. What are safe sensory toys for toddlers?

Safe sensory toys are those made with non-toxic, eco-friendly materials. They often have rounded edges, no small parts, and are durable enough for frequent play. Always check the recommended age on the packaging to ensure it's appropriate for your child.

2. What are the best sensory toys for toddlers with autism?
Toys that provide calming, repetitive actions or soothing textures are often ideal for children with autism. Items like fidget toys, textured balls, or water play toys help children focus and regulate their sensory input.

3. How do sensory toys help with development?
Sensory toys stimulate a child’s senses—touch, sight, sound, and sometimes even smell or taste. These experiences help toddlers develop motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive functions like problem-solving and cause-and-effect reasoning.

4. What are calming sensory toys for toddlers?
Calming sensory toys include fidget toys, soft textured items, or toys that offer repetitive, soothing actions (like popping bubbles or slow-moving liquids). These toys help toddlers relax and self-regulate when they’re feeling overstimulated.

5. Can sensory toys be eco-friendly?
Absolutely! There are many eco-friendly sensory toys on the market made from sustainable materials like wood, organic cotton, and BPA-free plastics. Choosing these options ensures you're providing safe play while being kind to the planet.

6. How do I introduce sensory toys to my toddler?
Start slow and observe how your child responds. Offer one toy at a time, allowing them to explore at their own pace. Every child has different sensory needs, so watch for which toys they gravitate towards.

7. What are good sensory toys for bath time?
Bath-safe sensory toys like the Glo Pals Party Pal Characters are fantastic because they light up in water, engaging your child’s sight and touch while making bath time more enjoyable.

8. Are sensory toys only for kids with autism?
No, sensory toys are beneficial for all children! They help with development and can provide fun, engaging ways for any child to explore their environment. However, they are particularly helpful for neurodivergent children who might have specific sensory needs.

9. What makes a toy "sensory"?
A toy is considered sensory if it engages one or more of the senses, such as touch, sight, sound, or even smell and taste. Sensory toys often have unique textures, sounds, or movements that appeal to children’s natural curiosity and sensory processing.

10. Are noisy toys good for sensory play?
Not always! While some children enjoy noisy toys, others—especially those sensitive to auditory input—might find them overwhelming. If you're looking for calming sensory toys, stick to items with gentle sounds or no sound at all.

Sensory-friendly toys are an incredible way to foster your child's development while keeping playtime fun and calming. With a little thought and care, you can create a sensory-friendly environment that supports your toddler's unique needs and encourages their growth.

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