Rehabmart offers many different types of multi-sensory items at discount prices. Visit our multi-sensory learning page to view the different products we have to offer!

Shopping for most children is a relatively simple matter that involves a trip to a store to purchase the toy of the season. The tough parts are parking and fighting the crowds. 

For special needs kids living with developmental delays, autism spectrum disorders, or sensory processing issues, a toy that would bring squeals of joy from a typically-abled kid might very well evoke shrieks of fright from them. Multi-sensory gifts provide gentle stimulation and a chance to safely explore their world in a nonthreatening way. Here are seven suggestions for Santa and anyone acting as his elves. 

No batteries? No worries, with the Oggz Visual Stimulation Light. The egg-shaped lights can sit in their nesting crate to charge, and thanks to their cool LED lights, can be held in a person’s hands. They gradually and gently change colors, lending a touch of magic to any room as a lighting accent or as a nightlight, and can enhance meditation or relaxation sessions. Each one has its own on/off switch and can remain lit, regardless of the amount of light in a room. They may be purchased separately or in sets of three,  and the recharging stand is included. 

Remember blowing bubbles in childhood with the container of soap and the special wand with the donut-shaped end? For someone with manual dexterity issues, handling the wand might be a challenge. No reason to miss out on the fun and beauty of bubbles, though, thanks to the Bubble Machine. Simply pour the bubble solution into the tank, turn on the machine, and watch the bubbles fill the air. The unit is 4.5 inches wide by 7 inches high by 10 inches long, and can be used in any room where bubbles are desired. Bubble solution is not included.       

Counting sheep is a standard method for lulling one’s self to sleep, but a child won’t have to count very high when he or she has the Sleep Sheep as a bed partner. The Sheep measures 8.5 inches long by 12 inches high by 12 inches wide, and is covered in off-white fleecy fabric. It plays a choice of soothing sounds from nature including ocean waves, a heartbeat, whale songs, and spring showers. The timer can be set for 23 or 45 minutes, while the volume adjusts with the touch of a button. The Sheep cannot accept an adaptability switch and requires two AA batteries which are not included. 

For a soft lighting accent with calming visual effects, the Aroma Mist Sensory Fountain is a good choice. It aids relaxation with its soft lights that automatically change color gradually while a cool mist 'cloud' flows out of and around its glass bowl. Essential oils can be added to enhance the experience with aromatherapy. The unit is powered by an AC transformer and operated by a remote that requires two AAA batteries.  

The space fans on your list will be intrigued by the Multi-Sensory Laser Stars Projector. Using holographic and green laser technology, the Projector transforms any dark room into a private observatory with animated stars and clouds. Simply plug it in and let it surprise and delight you with an occasional shooting star. The AC adaptor is included. 

Want to slip in a little cause-and-effect with the visual stimulation? The Sound and Light Dome responds to different sounds such as humming, whistling, and speaking by displaying different colors. At 24 inches square, it’s suspended from the ceiling like an acoustic tile along with its 12 volt transformer. Simply make a few sounds and enjoy the show!

Whether you choose the Lighted Musical Fan with its whirring fan, happy music, and blinking lights, or the Magical Spinning Light and its 32 light patterns and music activated with the touch of a hand, or the Musical Fireworks with its celebration-inspiring music and fireworks sounds, or the set of all three, the Sensory Wall Panels will provide a multi-sensory to delight the user’s hearing, touch, and sight. They may be mounted individually or in a group with the optional rail. The Magical Spinning Light Panel requires 8 AA batteries and the other two need four C batteries to operate. 

These gifts are appropriate for use in private residences as well as in residential facilities, therapy centers, and special needs classrooms. They make great presents not just for the end-of-the-year holidays, but also for birthdays, graduations, and any other occasion.

To view other unique Multi-Sensory products, please go to the Multi-Sensory products pages.

Fran Jablway,
Senior Medical Consumer Writer
and
Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Team Leader & CEO