Our Favorite Things: The Best Sensory Toys for Holiday Gifting in 2024
It’s that time of year again—holiday shopping season! At Children in Motion, we understand that choosing the perfect gift can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re looking for toys that support your child’s sensory processing needs. That’s why we’ve curated our annual list of favorite sensory toys for children aged 0 to 11 years old. These toys are not only fun but also help with sensory development, fine motor skills, and self-regulation. Let’s jump into our top picks for 2024!
1. Best for Babies: Sensory Baby Rattle (Ages 0-2)
This soft and colorful baby rattle is a must-have for little ones exploring their senses. It’s designed with various textures and gentle sounds to engage your baby’s tactile and auditory senses. Plus, the silicone parts are perfect for soothing sore gums during teething.
Therapist’s Tip: Use this rattle during tummy time to help your baby practice reaching and visual tracking.
Where to Buy: You can find it on Amazon here.
2. Textured Sensory Balls (Ages 1-3)
These textured balls are a favorite for toddlers who love exploring new sensations. They’re squishy, easy to hold, and offer a variety of textures that help with tactile input. They’re also great for developing hand-eye coordination and early motor skills.
Therapist’s Tip: Try creating a “mystery bag” game with these balls to encourage your child to use descriptive language and practice tactile discrimination.
Where to Buy: Purchase them on Amazon here.
3. Liquid Motion Bubbler (Ages 3-5)
The Liquid Motion Bubbler is a visual delight for kids and adults alike. This calming toy features colorful bubbles that flow slowly, creating a soothing effect that’s perfect for kids who need a little help winding down.
Therapist’s Tip: Keep this toy in a calming corner or quiet space for your child to use when they need a sensory break.
Where to Buy: Find it on Amazon here.
4. Kinetic Sand (Ages 3-8)
Kinetic Sand is a go-to for sensory play, allowing kids to mold, squish, and create without the mess of traditional sand. It’s fantastic for developing fine motor skills and providing soothing tactile input. Whether your child likes to build sandcastles or simply run their fingers through it, this toy is always a hit.
Therapist’s Tip: Hide small items in the sand for a fun “treasure hunt” activity to work on tactile exploration.
Where to Buy: Get it on Amazon here.
5. Weighted Lap Pad (Ages 3-10)
For children who have trouble sitting still, a weighted lap pad can be a game-changer. The gentle pressure helps kids feel more grounded and focused, making it great for use during mealtime, reading, or homework.
Therapist’s Tip: Incorporate the lap pad into your child’s bedtime routine for added relaxation and comfort.
Where to Buy: Available on Amazon here.
6. Squigz Suction Construction Toys (Ages 4-10)
Squigz are suction-based construction toys that offer endless possibilities for building and creative play. Kids love pulling them apart, which provides great tactile and auditory feedback. They’re also perfect for strengthening fine motor skills.
Therapist’s Tip: Use these in the bathtub or on a smooth surface like a window for an extra fun play experience.
Where to Buy: Find them on Amazon here.
7. Jellyfish LED Lava Lamp (Ages 5-11)
This LED lava lamp features floating jellyfish that swim gently through the water, creating a mesmerizing effect. It’s perfect for setting up a calming environment, making it an ideal addition to a child’s sensory-friendly space.
Therapist’s Tip: Use this lamp as a part of your child’s bedtime routine to help them relax and transition to sleep.
Where to Buy: Get it on Amazon here.
8. Crash Pad (Ages 5-11)
A crash pad is an excellent choice for kids who need a safe way to get heavy work input. It’s great for jumping, crashing, and rolling, providing proprioceptive input that can help children feel more regulated and centered.
Therapist’s Tip: Incorporate the crash pad into obstacle courses or sensory breaks to help your child release energy safely.
Where to Buy: Purchase it on Amazon here.
9. Balance Board (Ages 6-11)
This balance board is fantastic for helping kids develop core strength, coordination, and balance. It’s a simple tool that offers a big payoff in terms of sensory input, especially for kids who need help with body awareness.
Therapist’s Tip: Use the balance board for a quick sensory break or as part of a fun home exercise routine.
Where to Buy: Available on Amazon here.
10. Calm Down Bottle Kit (Ages 4-11)
A calm down bottle is a great DIY project that doubles as a self-regulation tool. Kids can create their own sensory bottle filled with glitter and water, then use it as a calming aid when they feel overwhelmed.
Therapist’s Tip: Keep the calm down bottle handy for moments when your child needs help self-regulating.
Where to Buy: Find it on Amazon here.
Wrapping Up Our Favorites
We hope this list of sensory toys helps you find the perfect gifts for the special children in your life. These toys are designed to support development, enhance sensory processing, and make playtime more meaningful. Happy shopping, and from all of us at Children in Motion, we wish you a joyful, sensory-friendly holiday season!
Ready to learn more about our pediatric therapy services? Contact us here.
