Birthday Gifts?

[blessed.mommy]

Now that we have a diagnosis, I feel like we should get Jack something that may "help" him in a way, for his birthday.

I was thinking of an indoor trampoline, like this one. I thought it might be a good idea, seeing as he likes to jump around, on his bed and the couch. Most of the toys that he has now, he doesn't really play with...he kinda throws things around. When you buy your little one gifts, do you take into account their special needs?

[~cassie]

Yes I do buy things based on some of his deficits.  Like he needed some help wth fine motor so he got a DSi and that helped tons.  We have a large outdoor trampoline and we got it for all the kids AND also to help with our SN kiddo that has some low tone issues.  He has gotten tons of Signing Time DVDs for birthdays/christmas but  I do try to not make everything about helping him develop specific skills.

[kittykat2481]

I don't have a SN child, but I happened upon this post from the main page. I will say, however, that I buy DS gifts based on his strengths and weaknesses in, as well as his interests in general. If your child loves to jump, regardless of the reasons, I think an indoor trampoline is a fantastic gift. DS has one and he loves it. :)

[blessed.mommy]

Originally Posted by kittykat2481 

I don't have a SN child, but I happened upon this post from the main page. I will say, however, that I buy DS gifts based on his strengths and weaknesses in, as well as his interests in general. If your child loves to jump, regardless of the reasons, I think an indoor trampoline is a fantastic gift. DS has one and he loves it. :)

Yes. My son is a jumper and  climber! :)

[Rik-E]

If you have a space where he can use the trampoline safely go for it!   I also buy my kids gifts based somewhat on thier needs. I try to find something that they would enjoy but will also be helpful KWIM?

An indoor swing, giant bean bag, soft climbing toys like in preschools, spinning seat, are all good for sensory seeking kids.  

[zebra15]

Like the PP i saw this on the main page.  My son isn't SN but I also take his likes/dislikes, needs and wants into consideration when picking out gifts for him.

When DS was probably age 3-6 or so we had a mini trampoline similiar to that one (no handle) and he didnt use it.  He did use the full size one in the neighbors yard as well as the inflatable stuff.  Who knows? 

[chel]

my oldest has always had sensory issues.  we just moved to a place big enough to finally buy one and she loves it.  we have very long winters and it really helps.  even my 13m gets on it and 

'bounces" - bends at knees, but no real "air time"

we just went with the plain exercise one that was $25.  was too afraid the kids would hit their teeth on the handle bar.

[The artist]

Originally Posted by ~cassie 

Yes I do buy things based on some of his deficits.  Like he needed some help wth fine motor so he got a DSi and that helped tons.  We have a large outdoor trampoline and we got it for all the kids AND also to help with our SN kiddo that has some low tone issues.  He has gotten tons of Signing Time DVDs for birthdays/christmas but  I do try to not make everything about helping him develop specific skills.

I think it's important to consider toys that can help with weak areas, but there is so much more to little ones than what's not "right". I think it's pretty true that over time people tend to enjoy things that they derive pleasure from, and accomplishment is usually pleasurable, so we tend to enjoy what we're good at. I would find it really frustrating to only get gifts/toys that focused on my deficits, and have a closet full of stuff that was more hard work than play. But a trampoline for a kid is a great idea - any kid - typical or atypical! Great idea Mom!

[Eyelet]

My son has ASD and an indoor trampoline and he loves it. It provides great sensory input and helps him get energy out. If you have hardwood floors, I would suggest putting a foam mat underneath it to protect the wood - we found this out the hard way.