Gifts for Neurodivergent Adults: Acknowledging Teachers

Sure, the ‘official' Teacher Appreciation Week may be over. But, why not celebrate teachers all year? In true to ADHD running late form… Looking for that perfect gift for your neurodivergent teacher friend? Dive into our smart guide designed for teachers with ADHD, autism, or SPD—where every present hits the mark!

1. Catch Their Interest: Gifts that get straight to the point.
2. No Guesswork: Straightforward choices that make sense.
3. Handpicked Perfection: Meticulously selected, teacher-approved.
4. Thoughtful and Thorough: Every suggestion tailored, no detail overlooked.
5. Ease and Enjoyment: Easy options that guarantee a smile.

Greetings, Neurodivergent Teachers (plus Families and Colleagues!) 

As adults with ADHD, autism, AuDHD, sensory processing disorder (SPD), and other conditions, you know how difficult it can be to request and receive a gift that truly suits your unique needs and preferences.

This post, “Gifts for Neurodivergent Adults: Acknowledging Teachers” is dedicated to supporting you by helping those who care about you to determine what to give as a birthday gift, on teacher appreciation days, at the holiday season, and any other special event. 

Of course, every person is unique and what works for one autistic person, for example, may not suit another.

You might have a mental health condition that is not listed in the aforementioned list and still benefit from any or all of these ideas. Or you might not gravitate towards any.

The key is to put some thought into best gift ideas now, so that when the time comes, you can easily pass the list (see end of post) to your family members, best friend, partner, students and their families, or administration.

You can also refer back to it when a neurodivergent colleague is up for some appreciation!

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Do not substitute it for professional medical, legal, or therapeutic advice. Instead, consult a qualified licensed professional. 

Gifts for Autistic Adults: Recognizing Unique Sensory Needs

As neurodivergent teachers, you understand the importance of respecting your diverse sensory needs. People with SPD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or ADHD frequently experience sensory issues.

(For more information, see my related post, “Teachers Coping as Adults with Sensory Processing Disorder.”)

These can make it challenging to decide on that great gift idea. Finding the perfect gift that caters to your unique preferences can be challenging, especially when you may not have the mental bandwidth to generate much spontaneous information.

Let's explore some thoughtful gifts tailored to support individuals with autism or sensory sensitivities.

The Versatility of the Gift Card: Empowering Neurodivergent Teachers' Choices

Gift cards are a great option for practical gifts for neurodivergent teachers, offering you the freedom to choose items or experiences that align with our interests and sensory needs.

Whether it's for purchasing sensory-friendly products, indulging in special interests like video games, or exploring new hobbies, gift cards provide flexibility and simplicity. It's a thoughtful gesture that acknowledges your individuality and respects your autonomy, while also promising to be an effective use of the giver's time and money.

For me, I also appreciate the fact that I don't have to spend extra energy ‘spoons' coming up with a creative idea. It's much less pressure.

And, if they purchase it locally, not only do you support small businesses; but you may not need to worry about finding free shipping deals. Win, win!

Fidget Toys: Engaging Tools for Focus and Relaxation

Fidget toys (or “sensory toys”) are another great idea for supporting your sensory needs, including those of you with ADHD.

These physical tools offer a tactile outlet for restless energy, helping to enhance focus and promote relaxation in the classroom or at home. By providing a variety of textures, shapes, and colors, fidget toys cater to different sensory sensitivities and preferences, making them a thoughtful and practical gift choice.

To be honest, while I do know that fidgets can be really helpful, I personally have not had much luck using them. The main reason? I like to put them down and walk away! Small detail.

That said, I did buy a fidget cube from Appash and found it to be high quality and overall kind of interesting. I like that there are choices for silent clicking, audible clicks, rolling, flipping, and more. It fits well in my hand and I can hide it pretty easily from onlookers.

It is the perfect size for the palm of my hand. I can roll it around and have it massage my tense thumb muscles. The joystick feature is also enjoyable. I haven't used one of those since I was a kid!

Honestly, squeeze balls and the infamous fidget spinner have also given me the same experience. (I say infamous in jest, as their mainly negative reputation from mostly neurotypical adults is not deserved.)

I enjoy them but I don't crave them enough to remember to have them nearby. Yes, I *could* put multiples in different locations.

But as anyone with ADHD knows, it often feels near impossible to have stuff where you want it, when you want it. And with the price point being what it is, I don't want to invest in lots of them only to lose them a couple of days later.

It all depends on your needs, preferences, and what you want to spend. If you're familiar with the concept of the ADHD tax, you know exactly what I mean. Read my related post on fidgets for helpful ideas of some choices for adults with ADHD.

Embrace Comfort with Weighted Blankets: Soothing Sensory Support 

Depending on your preferences, a weighted blanket can be an excellent gift idea for adults with sensory processing disorders who are seeking comfort and sensory regulation.

The heaviness they provide can help reduce anxiety, promote better sleep, and improve overall well-being. Available in a range of weights, sizes, colors, and price points, weighted blankets offer personalized comfort to suit your sensory sensitivities and preferences.

It's a thoughtful gesture that shows they care about your well-being and understand your unique sensory needs.

Weighted blankets for me have been a bit disappointing, but I do use and enjoy a weighted neck wrap and aromatic therapy pillow. I say disappointing because I really wanted to like them, but in reality, I don't seem to tolerate them very well.

I usually end up feeling anxious and taking it off. I've tried keeping it just on my feet, and this is perhaps the most calm I've gotten out of them so far.

Noise-Canceling Headphones: Creating Calm Spaces

For neurodivergent teachers with auditory sensitivities, noise-canceling headphones are a great way to create calm and in chaotic environments. Whether it's during practice sessions, exuberant student debates, or planning times, headphones block out external noise, helping to reduce sensory overload and promote focus.

For daily use at work, you could also try either noise-canceling air pods or earplugs.

I would take my old, beat-up pair of headphones to work but never my nice ones. But in case you need a good recommendation, I adore the best sellers Bose QuietComfort headphones, Apple AirPods Pro, and Loop earplugs.

Also consider trying a white noise machine to offset some of the audio-induced angst!

Exploring the Benefits of Deep Pressure: Supporting Sensory Regulation

Deep pressure products, such as weighted vests or compression clothing, offer sensory support for autistic people, those of you with SPD, or any adults seeking calming input.

These thoughtful gifts provide gentle pressure to the body, helping to regulate sensory input, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation. With options available in various styles, sizes, and colors, individuals can find the perfect deep pressure solution that meets your unique sensory needs and preferences.

I had students who wore weighted vests but I have not yet tried them. I have heard of people also using tight-fitting undershirts or leotards under their clothing.

Other related items are things like swings, hammocks, or body socks, all of which help give proprioceptive input. If you have and you benefit from any of these, please comment below about what you do and don't like about them! 

Dive into Special Interests: Personalized, Sensory-Friendly Gifts

As neurodivergent teachers, you know how important it is to align your time with your interests. Our brains are motivated by interests more than our neurotypical counterparts.

Incorporating your passions, whether it's video games, music, art, literature, or dinosaurs, into gift choices can make them even more meaningful.

Consider items related to your favorite hobbies or fascinations, such as sheet music, gaming accessories, art supplies, or audiobooks. By acknowledging special interests, they're showing that they value your individuality and understand what brings you joy.

What About the WORST Gifts for Neurodivergent Adults? 

Whew. If I could list the worst set of gifts to give to ADHD adults or any neurodivergent individuals, we might be here all day.

These usually well-intentioned presents make the gift giver feel like they are helping; while simultaneously draining the receiver emotionally, mentally, and/or physically.

In the worst-case scenario, the receiver would feel obligated to ‘mask' and use the gift in an attempt to show appreciation for the giver, causing even more stress, pain, and anxiety (i.e., a whole host of problems no one wants).

But fear not! There is good news, because here is a list of things to AVOID giving as a rule. 

(Here are some items NOT to buy unless you know for certain your person loves them.) 

(Pro tip: request gift receipts to ensure painless returns and exchanges!)

• tight clothing (sweaters, pants, collared shirts, jeans, and more)
• turtlenecks
• flannel
• wool
• felt
• socks with seams
• t-shirts with tags
• pants, dresses, or skirts with tags
• uncomfortable underwear (bras, panties, lingerie, boxers, briefs)
• uncomfortable exercise undergarments (sports bras, jock straps, etc.)
• earrings (especially long, dangly; pierced; or any metal that is off-putting)
• necklaces (especially tight and/or heavy)
• rings (do they even like to wear them?)
• watches (same as above)
• hats, belts, and other accessories 
• perfume! (please whatever you do, no body splash, body spray, or cologne)
• scented body lotions or powders
• scented candles 
• scented sunscreen, or cream that burns or stings the eyes
• pillows 
• sheets 
• tickets to see your favorite musical group
• tickets to travel to attend a sports match
• an itinerary to go to a beach if the receiver hates the sand
• an extremely planned-out travel itinerary with no room for flexibility or last-minute changes
• a trip to a spa (even if it's a gift card)
• a manicure, pedicure, or other beauty treatment
• a massage (especially with no choice on essential oils) 

What to do instead?

Ask your person what do they really want. (Do not, under any circumstances, judge or ridicule what they say. It is a very vulnerable position for them to be in.)

If you really want to show you care, you will listen closely and honor their wishes when you can. Remember, the gift is for them, not you.

Perhaps they really do want a massage and they know the masseuse and like their style. But maybe they just want to take a nap.

You could offer time to do some of their ‘care tasks' (KC Davis) like laundry or dishes, so that they can snooze. Maybe you can go on a gentle hike? Or just stay in and watch a silly TV show. 

Do the grocery shopping or cooking, or offer to watch the kids for an hour so they can get a haircut. Practical gestures can go a long way!

Let's Recap… 

List for Easy Gifts for Neurodivergent Adults, Especially Teachers:

• cash gift card (e.g., Visa, with no fees for the receiver)
• coffee shop coupons (if they have items they like)
• online shopping gift cards (e.g., Amazon)
• fidget toys, fidget cubes (this fidget cube from Appash) in different colors
• weighted blankets or weighted neck wraps (note: this wrap is covered in fleece, but it actually doesn't bother me because the gauge is so fine)
• noise-canceling headphones, ear buds, ear plugs (best sellers Bose QuietComfort headphones, Apple AirPods Pro, and Loop earplugs)
• a white noise machine to offset some of the din
• weighted vests or compression clothing
• body socks
• swings
• hammocks
• unscented hand lotion like this one from Neutrogena
• personalized items based on particular interests 

Don't Forget

Every person is unique. What works for one person one day may or may not work for them the next.

When it comes to giving gifts for neurodivergent adults, especially teachers, listen closely to what they are asking for.

If you are the teacher, don't be afraid to ask for unscented dry erase markers or better blinds to block out the light. You deserve to have gifts that work for your nervous system, and make you happy; not further isolate you or contribute to shame.

For more tips on managing daily challenges as a neurodivergent teacher, read the Key Neurodivergent Teachers' Guide to Managing Daily Challenges round-up!