It’s about that time again! Depending on where you are, you may be soaking up the last few weeks of summer or already settling back into the classroom. Wherever you are in the back-to-school season, a little surprise to help make the year easier, more comfortable, and a little more fun is always a great way to start.
So, we thought we’d put together a Through Their Eyes Back-to-School Gift Guide. Inspired by the 10 children at the heart of this transformative campaign, and the beautiful spectrum of learners they represent, we hope this roundup helps all parents and loved ones pinpoint the perfect present to start their student's school year off on the right foot.
We hope this guide is also a reminder that your challenges are not who you are, and they don’t dictate who you will become. They are, however, an important part of your life’s story, and there are so many elements that can help you with them along the way.
Happy shopping!
Oliver
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His challenge: Autism
The gift that fits: Oliver loves to sketch (especially dinosaurs!) Noise-canceling headphones can help him block out distracting background noise and get lost in his art. But they can also help him focus on his schoolwork, whether in the classroom or at home.
Maleko
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His challenge: Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
The gift that fits: Comfort and movement are essential for Maleko as restriction can make it tough to learn. “Springy” sneakers with soft, energetic cushioning that can give him a little bounce in his step, even if he’s just standing still, can be very helpful.
Lily
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Her challenge: Shyness
The gift that fits: Lily loves science, especially the beauty and process she finds in nature. This hydroponic grow tower is the perfect project to keep her focused and productive throughout the year as she experiments with growing a variety of different plants and veggies.
Brian
His challenge: Trauma-Related Disorder
The gift that fits: Since school grounds Brian and home isn’t always a predictable environment, a weighted blanket could give him a comforting way to unwind in his room or on the couch, helping ease his nerves and soothe any sore muscles after playing volleyball.
Lucia
Her challenge: Diabetes
The gift that fits: Lucia loves imagining, as well as books and quiet time, making this play tent the perfect little retreat. She can curl up inside with a book, play house with her baby dolls or grab a friend for a playdate and turn it into their very own secret hideout.
Luke
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His challenge: Muscular Dystrophy
The gift that fits: Mobility can sometimes hinder connection for Luke, which is why small details make a big difference. Utilizing versions of the board games he loves with magnetized pieces can help him and friends focus on the game during recess without having to retrieve any dropped or missing pieces.
Imani
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Her challenge: ADHD
The gift that fits: Imani loves exploring and trying new things, and that sense of adventure shows in her style. Magnetic eyeglass frames allow her to jazz up one of her everyday accessories, switching up her look with new styles about as quickly as inspiration strikes.
Jade
Her challenge: Fine Motor Delay
The gift that fits: Dance is such an important part of how Jade expresses herself, and her feet allow her to tell stories without words. A comfy pair of slippers is the perfect way to give those feet a break, helping her relax and recharge after a busy day of dance or stressful day at school.
Quinn
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Her challenge: Twice Exceptional (2e), Social Anxiety
The gift that fits: Communication can take many forms, and Quinn proves that quiet doesn't mean “empty.” Building with LEGOs gives shape to the worlds in her imagination, and city sets like this Paris one give her a hands-on way to bring those ideas to life and share a little piece of her world with others.
Mateo
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His challenge: Language Processing
The gift that fits: Devices and apps like Canva and SketchUp can help Mateo bring his ideas to life when words don't quite capture what he wants to say. Having these tools powered up and ready to use is vital, and a charging station that can handle several devices helps ensure inspiration doesn't have to wait, whether he's at home or in the classroom.
Happy back-to-school season!
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