13 great stocking stuffers for kids with sensory needs

Some go-getters may be nearly done shopping for Christmas gifts, but until the stockings are filled and hung by the chimney with care, it’s not quite time to flip on the Hallmark channel and relax by the tree. If you are shopping for stocking stuffers for kids with sensory issues, the task can feel daunting because it’s not as easy as grabbing a few Hot Wheels cars or a new Barbie when you have to consider sensory needs and sensory triggers.

But don’t panic yet! In this season of goodwill and giving, we’re here with a list of our 13 favorite stocking stuffers for kids with sensory issues. From therapeutic to just plain fun, these tiny trinkets will make you feel confident in your holiday shopping list, so you can top off that eggnog, grab an extra Christmas cookie, and spend time enjoying the season with the sensory kid you love.

1. Wacky Tracks

Bend, build, snap, click, laugh, and play, Wacky Tracks are an incredibly popular fidget toy in the sensory community. Offering a great blend of creativity and calming play, you’ll find yourself mindlessly snapping Wacky Tracks when your kids aren’t playing with them, because they really are that addicting. In fact, the only thing better than Wacky Tracks, is more Wacky Tracks, so make sure to get multiple sets for even bigger sensory fun.

2. Kinetic Sand

It’s squishy, pliable, and moldable, while never being crumbly and, it won’t dry out, because it’s Kinetic Sand! A win-win sensory stocking stuffer, Kinetic Sand offers a full sensory playtime experience for kids, with hardly any cleanup required. In terms of its sensory stimulation and fun factor, there’s nothing quite like it.

3. MayberryTech Direct Chew Necklace

Crafted from 100% food-grade silicone and promising to be BPA, phthalate, and lead free, the four-piece MayberryTech Direct Chew Necklace set is so stylish it doesn’t even look like a therapeutic tool. Reviewers appreciate the product’s durability, as well as its dishwasher and freezer-safe properties. These necklaces are great for kids with ADHD or autism.

4. Sensory tubes

Pull them, push them, twist them, and listen to the fun noise they make! Parents won’t be able to decide if the crazy noise that comes from Bunmo Poppin’ Pipes sensory tubes is annoying, or if the peaceful engagement of their child is worth the hassle. A common occupational therapy tool, Bunmo Poppin’ Pipes Sensory Tubes’ compact size also makes them great for travel.

5. Hand2mind Express Your Feelings Sensory Bottles

Kids with sensory issues often have big feelings because they feel emotions with more intensity than neurotypical kids might. That’s what makes Hand2mind Express Your Feelings Sensory Bottles so awesome. Part fidget toy, part social emotional therapeutic tool, these visually stimulating bottles are filled with sequins, glitter, and the opportunity to have a conversation about complex feelings.

6. Infinity Cube Fidget Toy

Designed specifically with sensory needs in mind, the Infinity Cube is so neat you’re going to want one too. This stress-relieving fidget is almost impossible to stop fidgeting with. But, when you do finally stop flipping it under, over, and into itself, you can store it in its included protective case. If you need a stocking stuffer for older kids and teens, the Infinity Cube is an excellent choice.

7. Itzy Ritzy Bitzy Crinkle Sensory Toy

The Itzy Ritzy Bitzy Crinkle Sensory Toy features an adorable dinosaur with an attached silicone chew ring. Complete with sensory tags on its edge, this highly rated 4.8/5-star toy is best suited for a younger child with oral sensory needs.

8. Rubik’s Cube

For kids prone to sensory overload who may feel overwhelmed in stimulating environments, the Rubik’s Cube demands enough attention that the user can block out their surroundings to find a sense of peace. Standing the test of time, the Rubik’s Cube inspires creativity and higher-level thinking, while also being small enough to entertain on the go.

9. Learning Resources Spike the Fine Motor Hedgehog

Spike the Fine Motor Hedgehog may need to come out of his box to stuff in your stocking, but he’s definitely worth the effort. Based on a Montessori style of learning, Spike has spikes that sensory-seeking kids love to turn, spin, press, and twist.

10. Floating Rubber Light-Up Animal Toys 

Nearly 6,500 reviews have landed Floating Rubber Light-Up Animal Toys with a rating of 4.5/5 stars, and it’s easy to see why. Arriving in a pack of eight, these cute little guys automatically light up when placed in a water-filled bathtub, and then slowly flash a brightly colored light. Kids will love these toys, and you’ll love the price of this great, visually stimulating sensory addition to bath time.

11. ArtCreativity Light Up Magic Ball Wand

Another popular toy in the therapy world is the ArtCreativity Light Up Magic Ball Wand, thanks to its brightly colored, spinning lights. Perfect for kids who appreciate cause-and-effect actions, the on/off button makes it easy to toggle the light show, providing both a sensory experience as well as a learning one.

12. Atesson Fidget Spinner

Made of high-quality materials that give it a silent, weighted appeal, the Atesson Fidget Spinner is the highest-rated fidget spinner on Amazon. Reviewers promise you’ll find it so addicting you’ll want one for yourself, but this classic design is tailor made for sensory-seeking individuals.

13. Ja-Ru Wooden-Paddle Ball with String

A vintage toy that is just as much fun now as it was back in the day, the 3-pack Ja-Ru Wooden Paddle Ball with String is an enticing toy option for gross motor sensory-seeking kids of all ages. Offering big playtime fun while being small enough to fit in a stocking, sensory-seeking kids will appreciate the indoor energy release this toy provides even if it’s cold outside.