One way to go about choosing gifts for kids with special needs is to choose them around a specific theme. For our son, this helps him with his congnitive skills. You can tell by the look on his face that he’s making a connection between the toy in his hand being the same figurine as the one in the movie that he’s watching. I love that look!
Let’s use the movie Wall-E for example.
Personally, I absolutely loved this movie. The characters are instantly lovable, and the story line was wonderful. But better still, there are so many items that you can buy to follow this theme. Some of which are great for reinforcing cause and effect, visual and auditory attention. It doesn’t matter what the person’s ability level is. You’ll be able to shop around this theme.
Let’s start off with the movie. An extremely cute movie with characters that kids should enjoy. The little robots can talk, but with unique voices to attract and engage a child’s attention. I watched the movie months ago, and I can still hear Eva’s voice in my head saying “Waaaalll-EEEEE”.
Stocking Stuffers!
While watching the movie, your child can be holding one of the characters in the form of a stuffed animal, action figure, etc.. Especially if they need to fidget (like our son does). Choose one with a texture that they enjoy most.
For example, our son rarely engages in anything that is made of plastic. Give him a choice between an action figure and a wash cloth and he’ll choose the wash cloth. So for him, I would most definitely choose a stuffed animal. One small enough that can be easily held in his hands.
Wall-E Adventure Hut
And you want them to really get into things, how about buying them a costume to go along with the theme? If you have enough room, let them watch the movie while playing in a Wall-E Adventure Hut.
If you’re child enjoys books, buy one. And how about a back pack? Most kids use one, and if you need to buy one anyways, why not buy one that goes along with whatever theme you’re building on? Nick’s is always on the back of his wheelchair and it’s used every day.
Now we can get into the really fun stuff. Wall-E just happens to have some awesome interactive toys. They respond to noises, and buy both Wall-E and Eve and they will talk to each other. Turn off the lights and their eyes light up. This is great for Nick because he has cortical vision impairment and turning off the lights creates a better contrast for him.
You get the idea….themes can be a whole lot of fun and therapeutic at the same time.
And for your convenience, everyone can view and members can post products by theme in our Shopping & Reviews section. I’ve begun to enter items with a Wall-E theme. Check it out! The Interaction Wall-E and Interaction Eve listings include a video so you can see them in action!
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