The Holidays are Upon Us

November 6, 2025
The Holidays are Upon Us

The holidays are upon us. Gifts given to loved ones should be thoughtful and meaningful. I am a big fan of gifts that offer an experience, such as museum memberships, weekend getaways, or nights out. But I also enjoy noticing what someone needs to improve their lives. What would make your loved ones’ lives better? 

Here are some ideas, but some gifts should be given with gentleness and love. 

  • Cleaning services – I like to support small local businesses, but your ND loved one would appreciate having someone else clean. You can also opt for a laundry service. 
  • Food delivery service – there are several options available. You might pay for an annual membership for someone to have grocery orders delivered to their home. Going to the grocery store can be difficult for some NDs, and many overspend with impulse buys. Another option is to gift a meal delivery service. There are many options available. Better yet, a personal chef who comes in to make or deliver freshly-made food.  
  • Mobile massage therapist session – Whether you gift one massage or a year’s worth, this is a great gift. Massage is something many consider a luxury. It may not seem like a go-to gift for everyone, but if you have a loved one who prefers not to be touched, finding the right massage therapist could help your loved one get comfortable with touch. Be sure to ask massage therapists about their experience with the neurodivergent population. These massage therapists will be able to partner with your loved one to adjust pressure or intensity, length of massage, and where on the body is comfortable for your loved one.
  • Exercise – is beneficial for neurodivergent brain wiring, but going to the gym can be, well, boring. Sneaking some movement into the day and helping your loved one get done what they want to do might be the way to go. An under-desk treadmill or desk bike pedals could be the answer. 
  • Losing things is part of life – but your loved one may be one of those who lose things more often than others. Tile Mates, which attach to items (such as car keys or cell phones), can help eliminate the frustration that comes with misplacing essential items.
  • Noise is a big trigger for many NDs— Loop earplugs to the rescue. They are great for concerts, movie theaters, restaurants, traveling, sleeping, etc. They can’t be seen when someone looks at you head-on. I wear mine often, but I appreciate them the most when I have a migraine so that I can continue with my daily tasks. 
  • Weighted blankets are popular – but Bearaby blankets stand out in terms of both appearance and texture. They come in different materials and sizes, from travel-size to king-size beds.  
  • The ONO Roller – is an adult fidget. It keeps the hands busy while the mind can ponder, calm down, de-stress, or wonder. 

The best gift for anyone in any relationship is to be seen, known, and heard. Not everyone has the words to tell you what they need or how they feel. One of these books for yourself may be the best gift you can give to your child, partner, friend, employee, or co-worker. 

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