Finding the right tools to support a child’s development can be a game-changer for parents and caregivers. Whether you're helping a child build fine motor skills, enhance sensory processing, or impro rve daily living skills, the right gifts can make learning fun and effective. In this guide, we've curated a collection of thoughtful, therapist-approved gifts recommended by our expert Occupational Therapists. These carefully selected products are designed to promote growth, independence, and confidence, all while encouraging play and exploration. Each item is a tool to help children reach their milestones in a way that’s engaging and enjoyable.
***Each gift guide has been carefully curated with suggestions directly from our staff and we have only included products we love and think you’ll love too! Please note, as an Amazon Associate, M Street will earn from qualifying purchases.
1. Play-doh with Tools or Cookie Cutters
Play-Doh is a classic that goes beyond play! Molding, squeezing, and rolling it strengthens little hands, promotes sensory exploration, and helps children become more comfortable with different textures. Using tools or cookie cutters builds hand coordination and spatial awareness, making it both therapeutic and tons of fun! (https://amzn.to/4hMBOgI)
2. Squigz
Squigz are a fantastic, versatile toy for coordination and hand strengthening. They can stick to various surfaces like mirrors, bathtubs, or tables, making them ideal for encouraging children to better tolerate daily routines. These suction toys are also great for encouraging children to explore their environment independently, even using them as they learn to stand and balance. (https://amzn.to/3YPEvWh)
3. Amagenius Sensory Bubble- Black Pop-Up Tent
This portable, pop-up sensory tent creates a soothing environment anywhere, giving children a calming space with reduced visual distractions. Adding a fiber optic lamp, projector, or soft lights turns this tent into an ideal spot for CVI (Cortical Visual Impairment) activities. It's perfect for vision therapy and sensory breaks, especially during busy holiday gatherings or travel! (https://amzn.to/3UOPSMX)
4. Ready 2 Learn Easy Grip Crayons
These specially designed crayons feature an easy-to-grip spherical handle, making coloring more accessible for children with tone challenges. They're perfect for fine motor development and make arts and crafts a more enjoyable, confidence-building experience. (https://amzn.to/48Qf7nz)
5. Woodpecker Worm Toy - Magnetic Bird Feeding Game
This magnetic feeding game is excellent for hand-eye coordination and fine motor practice. The hand-over-hand aspect of "feeding" the bird helps children develop precision, control, and patience, making it a playful way to improve essential skills. (https://amzn.to/4ezfSCS)
6. Therapy Putty by Special Supplies
Therapy putty is an ideal tool for strengthening hands and fingers. It offers just the right amount of resistance for therapeutic exercises, hand strengthening, and sensory exploration. This putty doesn’t dry out, making it a lasting favorite for sensory play! (https://amzn.to/3URDMCx)
7. Nee Doh Nice Cube Stress Ball
This squishy, soothing stress ball is perfect for sensory exploration and stress relief. Squeezing and manipulating it provides calming sensory feedback, helping children regulate emotions while also strengthening hands. It’s an ideal choice for calm-down time or as a fidget during focus activities. (https://amzn.to/48VoKSg)
8. Running Water Play Sink
This miniature sink brings real-life routines into playtime, letting children practice handwashing, pretend play, and using both hands together. The running water is great for sensory engagement and builds independence in daily self-care tasks, making it an exciting addition to any playroom. - (https://amzn.to/40LZJXn)
9. Cutting Fruit Set
The cutting fruit set is perfect for developing bilateral coordination, fine motor skills, and hand strength. children can “slice” fruits with a safe plastic knife, building confidence in using two hands together and practicing early cutting skills in a fun, hands-on way. (https://amzn.to/3Z5nlFt)
If you’re looking to support a child’s development with the right tools, the right gifts make learning both fun and effective and can be incredibly impactful. In this guide, we've curated a list of therapist-approved gifts recommended by our expert Occupational Therapists, each designed to promote fine motor skills, sensory processing, and daily living abilities. From strengthening hand coordination to encouraging independent play, these carefully selected toys and tools are perfect for fostering growth, confidence, and independence. Each item is a fun and engaging way for children to work towards their milestones, all while having a blast!
