The sights and sounds of the holidays are magical to many kids, but could be downright overwhelming and scary for some.
Here are some gift-buying tips for children with special needs.
Suzanne Bonifert works with Autistic children and other kids with special needs at the University of Texas at Dallas. She says her patients often have trouble with fine motor skills.
"Rather than a puzzle with small teeny tiny pieces, get a puzzle that has bigger pieces and pegs so that child can manipulate that puzzle a little bit easier," said Bonifert.
Autistic children can also be over-stimulated with toys that have a lot of electronic lights and sounds. Bonifert recommends toys like Play-Doh, and even Mr. Potato Head.
Experts also say to look for games where there is no winner or loser, just an opportunity to have fun.
"A lot of what we focus on within the Toys R Us toy guide for differently-abled kids are toys that will provide self-esteem for a child," says toy expert Adrienne Giordano.
Giordano adds that toys featured aren't toys specially made for kids with special needs, the guide simply shows which toys might help with things like motor or social skills.
Experts also recommend buying dolls and things that encourage interactive and dramatic play.
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