Holiday Gift Ideas for Neurodivergent Adults (or Yourself!) || By Annabelle Denmark LPCC
Running out of ideas? Here is a list that may inspire you!
The holidays are a time for giving, receiving, and creating moments of joy—and what better way to do that than with gifts that truly meet the needs of your loved ones? If you or someone you care about is an adult with ADHD, autism, or Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), this list is filled with thoughtful, sensory-friendly, and practical ideas. Whether you’re shopping for someone special or treating yourself, these gifts bring a little extra comfort and care to everyday life.
1. Weighted Teddy Bear: A Hug You Can Keep Forever
Bumpas plushies are more than just adorable—they’re designed to give you a full-body hug, thanks to their weighted arms and soothing textures. Perfect for grounding during stressful moments or just curling up with after a long day. Think of them as your new best friend, minus the small talk.
Shop Bumpas
There’s something magical about a weighted plush like Benji Bear. With its gentle pressure, it’s like receiving a warm, grounding hug whenever you need one. Perfect for sensory regulation, calming anxiety, or simply curling up after a long day.
Shop Benji Bear
2. Handmade Sensory Plushies: Unique Comfort
Sometimes, a handmade gift feels extra special. These plushies from Etsy provide sensory soothing with a personal touch:
CuddleCalm: Weighted, soft, and perfect for grounding during overwhelming moments.
Plushie Dreadfuls: This shop offers plush companions like the Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Hypermobility Rabbit, which celebrates and validates unique physical experiences.
3. Visual Timers: Gentle Reminders for Busy Minds
If managing time feels like an uphill climb, a Time Timer can make life so much easier. Its simple visual design helps you see time pass in a way that’s calming and motivating, whether you’re focusing on work or reminding yourself to take a well-deserved break.
Explore Time Timers
4. Fidget Tools: Small But Mighty Helpers
Fidget tools aren’t just fun—they’re a lifeline for managing focus, sensory needs, and stress. These options are designed for adults:
Gyroscope Spinner: Sleek and engaging, this spinner provides a calming outlet for restless energy.
Weighted Stress Ball: Perfect for squeezing away stress while offering a soothing, grounding sensation.
5. Calm Strips: Sensory Comfort on the Go
These discreet, textured stickers are wonderful for grounding during busy or overwhelming moments. Stick a Calm Strip on your phone, laptop, or desk for a touch of calm whenever you need it most.
Discover Calm Strips
6. Pillow Putty: A Squishy Sensory Delight
Soft, stretchy, and endlessly satisfying, Pillow Putty is the ultimate tool for fidgeting, relaxing, or simply keeping your hands busy while your brain works through ideas. It’s perfect for moments when you need to pause and reset.
Shop Pillow Putty
7. PlanetBox: For Meals Made Simple and Organized
The PlanetBox lunchbox makes mealtime feel effortless. Its organized compartments help reduce decision fatigue and bring a sense of structure to your day—ideal for adults juggling busy schedules or trying to make food prep a little less stressful.
View PlanetBox
8. Weighted Blankets: Your New Favorite Comfort
There’s nothing quite like the calming embrace of a weighted blanket. Designed to help regulate the nervous system and improve sleep, they’re a gift of comfort, relaxation, and a little extra peace at the end of the day.
The best gifts are those that show care and thoughtfulness—and every item on this list
does just that. Whether you’re giving to a loved one or yourself, these gifts are about
more than objects; they’re tools for comfort, connection, and support.
9. Weighted hoodies
See this blog here where I list a few options!
Best Weighted Hoodie on the Market
Wishing you a warm, sensory-friendly holiday season filled with peace and
joy. ��✨
Annabelle Denmark (she/they), MA, LPCC is a therapist based in Lakewood, CO, They specialize in individual therapy for neurodivergent adults. You can find them at www.renegadecounseling.com
