Christmas Sensory Gifts For Children of All Ages

We have had one of these for years, and I can't believe how long it has lasted. We did not buy a trampoline with a bar. My son was hyperactive, and our OT was concerned he would use the bar as a way to launch himself (as some kids do sometimes).

Without the bar, your child is forced to use their muscles even more to stay in control. He started using it when he was three years old. Of course, adult supervision at all times!

We actually discovered these because my son's preschool had them. Brilliant! Kids sit in these seats and uses their muscles to twist, turn and make themselves dizzy. It's a definite hit!

This wasn't out when my kiddos were young but boy we would have had one if they had been! Lots of great core exercise and a terrific energy outlet.

Stomp Rockets are the best! We had the junior system in the beginning and got a bigger set as they got older. Kids run and jump onto the "launch pad" to set the rocket off into the air. The harder they stomp on the launch pad, the higher the rocket goes. We've had this toy for several years, and it's still a favorite with my boys.

We discovered this toy through our occupational therapist. Kids can sit on their buttons and scoot with their legs. They can also lie down on their tummies and push around with their arms. Really, it's great for movement and energy release.

Do I really need to explain the Sit 'n Spin. This toy has been around for decades because it is just so awesome. And what kid doesn't love to get dizzy (or needs to learn that it's okay to be dizzy and have fun with it).

Black balance board can help improve core strength, coordination, posture, and balance - all while having fun!

Is it a donkey? Is it a horse? Who cares?  This is the updated version of a Hoppity Hop. A friend gave us one when my kiddo was two. He was barely tall enough to straddle the toy to "ride" it. He absolutely adored this toy and used it constantly. I should note -- it actually survived two boys. It's that tough.

If you're stuck inside during the winter, I highly recommend this Hopscotch game. This particular carpet is the kind you'll find in preschools, so it will last for you. And it's easy to roll up and put away.

My family actually got these as a shared toy when I was in high school. This fidget toy is awesome.... and addicting. This toy will be a hit with the entire family for sure. But it's not for toddlers! Give it to anyone in elementary school and up, including adults.

Another addicting fidget toy your child is going to love. Lots of twisting and turning, textures and bright colors make this toy a terrific one.

I can't even tell you how many hours I have used Koosh Balls as an awesome sensory item for myself. The individual rubber threads feel absolutely awesome and relaxing (for me). It can also be a terrific way to introduce a new sensory experience for your kiddo.

If you have a young sensory kid in your house that mouths everything, this toy is a terrific chew!

These are awesome chews your child can wear around their neck so they're always available.

Some kids just gotta swing. It's amazing how it calms some children down. This net cradles kids and make them feel pressure on all sides. I like this one because it comes with a support bar. If you are planning on buying a swing chair, be aware the hookup hardware may be sold separate.

This is the Mac daddy of swing seats. People go absolutely gaga over these seats because of the rocking motion and cave-like feeling.

I really like this swing because you can stand on it just as much as sit on it. It's also from HearthSong, a company with a good reputation, so you know it'll be good quality. This swing isn't for the younger set, however.

I actually want one of these for myself! These are not your childhood bean bags. They are designed to actually be comfortable and durable. Plus, the larger size means it will grow with your child and remain functional, not just some bean bag blog that sits in the corner.

Kids who need pressure on their bodies or have trouble sitting still may benefit from weighted pads. But, to be honest, a lot of them are boring. I like that this lizard has a cute personality.

Ball pits are an incredible sensory toy. But from past experience, the ball pits that blow up don't last long. They get popped and destroyed easily. This tent is going to last a lot longer (and you won't have to keep blowing it up).

Absolutely anything Play-Doh is a mega sensory hit. The dough by itself is fun, but add in the accessories to keep adding to the imaginative play.

Theraputty is designed to have resistance so it forces your child to work her hand muscles. Load of fun with great colors.