Choosing a Christmas present for an autistic person or someone with complex needs doesn’t need to be difficult. There are lots of autism-friendly gifts out there, but our top tip would be to speak to the person you are buying for, or their carer, to find out what they like or dislike and to get some suggestions.
You may find that your friend or loved one chooses something specific that they would like, which can help to reduce any stress or anxiety when opening gifts and make things more organised for you too.
If you are still looking for ideas, have a look at our autism-friendly gift guide below:
Gifts for Comfort
Many autistic people are sensitive to sensory input, so gifts that provide calm and comfort can be appreciated:
- Noise-cancelling headphones or ear defenders – Christmas and other celebrations can sometimes feel overwhelming with lots of noise and people chatting. For an autistic person or anyone with sound sensitivity, noise-cancelling headphones are a thoughtful gift. They help block out extra noise and let the wearer enjoy their preferred music or sounds. RUNOLIM Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, Wireless Over Ear Bluetooth Headphones with Microphone, 70H Playtime, Foldable Wireless Headphones with HiFi Audio, Deep Bass for Home Travel Office: Amazon.co.uk: Electronics & Photo
- Soft lighting or LED lamps – gentle, adjustable lighting instead of harsh overhead lights.
- Bean Bags – Bean bags are a versatile gift that provides comfort and a safe space to relax. Yogibo bean bags, for example, come in various sizes, mould to the body, and some even include calming aromatherapy. Budget-friendly options are also widely available. Yogibo – Best Bean Bag Chairs, Life Adaptable Furniture, and Comforts | Yogibo®
- Amazon Echo – Voice-activated devices like the Amazon Echo or Dot can be great for an autistic person. They can play audiobooks, create white noise, or help answer questions. With options starting around £30, they are a practical and fun gift. Echo Dot (Newest gen) | Big vibrant sound Wi-Fi and Bluetooth smart speaker with Alexa | Charcoal : Amazon.co.uk: Amazon Devices & Accessories
Gifts That Support Routine
Gifts that support routines can help reduce anxiety:
- Visual planners or daily schedules – for clear, visual organisation of the day. ASD Kids Calendar – Weekly Wall Chart Planner – Large A3 Visual Schedule Board – Compatible with PECS Cards – 24 Activity Cards – Autism Visual Timetable for Home : Amazon.co.uk: Stationery & Office Supplies
- Timers or visual countdown clocks – help with transitions between activities. Visual Timer with Protective Case, Yunbaoit Upgraded 60-Minute Countdown Timer for Kids and Adults with Low Battery Remind, Silent Time Management Tool, No Ticking, Optional Alert (Black) : Amazon.co.uk: Home & Kitchen
Gifts for Relaxation
Relaxing activities can help autistic people feel calmer and manage stress during the day.
- Fidget toys or sensory tools – stress balls, tangles, textured items, or chewable jewellery. Products like Pinch Me Dough can be soothing, helping with sensory regulation while supporting motor skills and creativity. Bumper Box of Fidget Toys for Stress Relief or Sensory
- Adult or child-friendly colouring books – simple patterns or favourite themes work well.
- Journals or emotion notebooks – for exploring thoughts and feelings. Calm & Colour: A Soothing Journey for Curious Minds: Colouring Book For Autism : Ltd, Boundless Canvas: Amazon.co.uk: Books
- Photobooks – Personalised photobooks are a lovely way to store memories or prepare for future trips or visits. If you’re hosting an autistic person this year, consider creating a photobook showing your home, table settings, food, and other guests. This can help them feel familiar and comfortable, reducing stress before they arrive.
Many autistic people appreciate spending quality time in a comfortable and familiar place, sometimes this can be the best gift of all.
- Quiet days out – walks in nature, aquariums, museums at quieter times, or their favourite cafés. Café G or Brierley Café are great places to visit. St George’s Café is in Pendleton within St George’s Hub, and Brierley Café is in Little Hulton within Brierley Community Hub. Both cafés offer a welcoming space to meet friends, family, or colleagues and enjoy homemade dishes. All our cafés are fully accessible and have free Wi-Fi. iamaspire.org.uk/what-we-do/catering/
- Activities at home – watching a favourite film, building something together, baking, or gaming.
