What Not to Buy: Gift Ideas for Neurodivergent Children with ADHD

Identifying the perfect holiday gift can often be a challenge. It's not always the most visible item on your child's wish list or the strategically placed product situated near the cash register. The ideal present is one that your child would genuinely adore, and not something that can potentially ignite squabbles or induce headaches. The first step towards finding such a gift involves understanding what not to shop for. This knowledge paves the way for creating a list of special gifts that will provide joy to your children, rather than causing friction in your bond.

In a recent survey, readers of ADDitude shared both the best and the worst presents that they have ever purchased for their children. The survey revealed useful strategies for the holiday season based on previous gift-giving blunders, as well as a curated list of timeless, joy-inducing gifts.

[Download: How to Prioritize This Holiday Season]

“Music has been a powerful motivator in our household. My son utilizes his headphones while tackling homework, chores, or any less appealing tasks.” — Allie, Louisiana

"My daughter, who is 10, displays a particular passion for overcoming brain games. She was immensely engrossed in the Rubik’s cube and speed cubing." — KJ, North Carolina

"For two of my daughters, a spinner ring helped immensely as a tool for fidgeting while performing a task or sitting for extended periods." —Vicky, Virginia

"My daughter, aged 9, has a deep affection for stuffed animals and carries one with her wherever she goes. I have come to realize that they are a sort of comfort item for her and help her feel calmer, so now I allow her to carry them around." — Heather, Wisconsin

"I had a big inflatable exercise ball as a teenager which I found extremely helpful since it acted as a stimulant and boosted dopamine production. I got one for my son on realizing its benefits. However, we lost track of it as he aged, but I recently rediscovered it. Now my son, who is 14 (the same age as me when I had one), is inexplicably drawn to it. It helps him to stay involved in movies and to use his energy in a fun manner. Watching him derive the same pleasure from it as I did fills my heart with joy." — Jen, Utah

Besides these, ADDitude readers also recommended more ADHD-friendly gifts:

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