Holiday gift ideas for kids with autism

[lumberjack_jeff]

http://www.autismkey.com/holiday-gift-ideas-for-children-with-autism/

Apple iPad – For many, this gift will be out-of-reach financially, but I feel it’s important to include because of the benefits it provides. The iPad has been heralded as a breakthrough device for children with autism, primarily for its downloadable applications, or ‘apps’ that have been developed to enhance communication for those with autism. If the iPad is out of your price range, consider the less expensive iPod Touch. eBay is a great spot to pick up an iPad at a discounted rate from what you typically would find in a retail store. PRICE: $350-$450 (used) or $550 – $800 (new). iPod Touch: $100 – $250 (used) or $250 – $500 (new). Prices vary based on model, storage space and web connectivity options, so be sure to do your research. http://www.apple.com

Sensory Pea Pod – The sensory pea pod is an inflatable vinyl pod for children that creates a “cocoon-like” effect, calming and relaxing them in the process. The item is safe and comfortable and children particularly enjoy the gentle pressure that it exerts on all sides. Available in different sizes. PRICE: $75.00 – $150.00 http://tinyurl.com/sensorypeapod

MeMoves™ – A multi-media presentation offered on DVD that helps a child’s auditory, visual, motor planning and sequencing and limbic parts of the brain. Organized into three categories; Joy, Focus and Calm, users select one of the 13 sequences on the DVD and follow along (imitate) the actions on the screen. PRICE: $59.95 http://www.thinkingmoves.com

Computer Games – It’s no secret that children with autism are drawn to video and computer games. The following selections from Different Roads to Learning will help apply your child’s love of video games into an interactive, positive learning experience. PRICE: $49.95 – $150.00 http://www.difflearn.com/category/computer_games

[maddezmom]

1. thanks for this post

we got my son a Ipad this past year and are using it for communication. We've been through a couple of Apps trying to find the right one but he does enjoy using it....when he wants to anyway.

[Odin2005]

2. I want the sensory pea pod!!!

[catabryna]

3. The sensory pea pod would be awesome for my kid.

I'll have to bookmark that page for future reference. Thanks for posting this.

[suninvited]

4. that's a good list

The iPad was way out of my reach, but I did manage to get my grandson an Innotab by Vtech. I had a $15 off coupon from JCP and got it for $64.

We plan on loading it with pictures of familiar objects so he can scroll through and show us what he wants at any particular time. We are really hoping this will help with some communication. He loves iPhones and can use them surprisingly well for a two and a half year old that only speaks about five words.

It is actually amazing how well he does on some of the free apps on my iPhone, such as the alaphabet games. We didn't even realize he knew all of his alphabet, even though his occupational therapist had told us that she suspected some hyperlexia.

I am really interested in looking more into the MeMoves.

[guthenson]

5. I know I'm late posting this, but....

Gifts don't have to electronic or battery operated. Science books are great. Games and puzzles too. Anything that stimulates the brain.

[lumberjack_jeff]

6. My son got several good science books

... and "Why Dogs are better than cats".

"Cats don't deposit bloody mice on the doorstep seeking praise. They do it to send a message."