The best presents fit the person, and that’s especially true for neurodivergent friends and family. Sensory preferences, routines and interests vary hugely, so there’s no single perfect gift. These ideas are a starting point. If in doubt, ask, or go for something linked to an interest you know they love.
Gifts for calm and comfort
Weighted blankets and lap pads
Many people find the steady pressure of a weighted blanket calming, particularly at bedtime. A weighted lap pad does a similar job in a smaller, portable form, handy at a desk or on a train. Check the weight suits the person before buying.
Noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs
For anyone sensitive to sound, good noise-cancelling headphones can make offices, commutes and family gatherings much easier. Discreet earplugs designed to reduce volume rather than block sound completely are a cheaper alternative.
Adjustable lighting
Smart bulbs or lamps that dim and change colour temperature let people set lighting that feels comfortable rather than living with harsh overhead lights.
Gifts for fidgeting and focus
Fidget jewellery
Spinner rings, chewable pendants and necklaces with moving parts give people something to fiddle with discreetly in meetings or social situations.
Putty, fidget toys and stress balls
Hand putty in different resistances, tangles and textured fidget toys can help with focus and regulation. They’re cheap and make good stocking fillers.
Visual timers and liquid motion toys
A visual timer makes time easier to see, which many people with ADHD find useful. Liquid motion toys, with slow-moving coloured droplets, are simply nice to watch and help some people wind down.
Gifts for everyday comfort
Comfortable clothes and shoes
Tagless clothing, socks without toe seams and soft, well-cushioned trainers can make a real difference to anyone with tactile sensitivities. Buy from places with easy returns, because fit and feel are personal.
Easy-grip kitchen tools
Kitchen utensils with chunky, non-slip handles are comfortable to use and helpful for people with dyspraxia or differences in motor coordination.
Alternative seating
Balance ball chairs, wobble cushions or rocking footrests let people move while they sit, which helps some people concentrate.
Gifts for interests and downtime
Accessible gaming
The Xbox Adaptive Controller lets players connect switches, buttons and joysticks to build a setup that works for them. It’s a great option for gamers with physical or motor differences.
Creative kits
Colouring books, sketch pads, good pencils, model kits or craft sets give people a calm, absorbing way to switch off.
Books and experiences
A book connected to a favourite interest is rarely wrong. For something by and about autistic people, see our list of books by autistic authors. Experiences can be lovely too, but think about crowds and noise, and offer off-peak times where you can.
A few tips on giving
- Ask, or ask someone who knows them well. A wish list takes the guesswork out.
- Include the gift receipt.
- Think about the unwrapping moment. Some people find opening presents in front of a group stressful, so let them open it later if they’d prefer.
For more ideas, our guide to neurodiversity-friendly stocking fillers has plenty of smaller gifts, and our Christmas tips for autistic adults cover the rest of the season.
How Enna can help
If you’re buying for colleagues, the most valuable thing an employer can give is a workplace that works for neurodivergent people all year round. Our guide to hosting a neuroinclusive Christmas party is a good place to start, and our workplace needs assessments help make sure people have the tools they need at work, not just at Christmas.
And if a neurodivergent friend or family member is hoping for a new job next year, point them to our jobs board.
