My Christmas Gift Guide for Children with Disabilities

Here comes another holiday season! It feels like summer is just over, but December is already here. As preparations for the festivities begin, our thoughts turn to presents. But choosing a gift for a child with cerebral palsy can be a daunting task.

Feel free to ask parents or caregivers for advice about what their child can do. I remember receiving toys that I didn’t think I could play with at first, but I soon figured it out. If you don’t have an opportunity to ask parents, go with your instinct.

I’ve compiled a list for children with cerebral palsy. However, this guide could suit any child with a physical disability. Remember that each child is different, so what works for one might not work for another.

Following are my suggestions for toys for children with disabilities:

1. Boxer: This cute robot is small but durable and responsive. A child can interact with Boxer with hand movements or use a remote control to have it do wheelies. The toy comes with an app and activity cards for more fun and games.
2. Smart Puppy Robotic Pet: Our family has had our share of interactive puppies, but this one is our favorite. It comes with an app that allows a child to control the puppy, making it dance, bark, and perform stunts.
3. Little Live Pets: I’m a huge fan of these toys because they are soft and interactive. One character is Rollie, My Kissing Puppy, which licks, wags its tail, and yaps like a real puppy. A child with cerebral palsy could play with the puppy on their lap or cuddle with it in bed.
4.  Magformers: Regular building blocks or Legos can be challenging for a child with cerebral palsy who may struggle to position the blocks in place. Magformers are magnetic and click together so building a tower or another structure is easier. Both of my children still enjoy playing with Magformers.
5. LeapFrog Laptop: For younger children, I highly recommend the LeapFrog My Own Leaptop. The toy’s letter buttons are big, making it easier for a child to play games, listen to music, and learn her letters at the same time. It’s fairly robust so there’s no need to panic if it falls onto the floor.
6. Learning Resources Gears: This building set is excellent for kids with dexterity issues, as the gears click together. The toy’s spinning function is sure to fire up those little imaginations.
7. Cardholders: Card game are fun, but it’s difficult to play when you can’t hold the cards. Cardholders are a great gift for someone with cerebral palsy — add a deck of cards or Uno for a super stocking filler.

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