What Not to Get the ADHDer in Your Life for Christmas
I once again take to my blog to tell you all what not to get the ADHDer in your life for Christmas. Previously, I had written to not give ADHD-related products for Christmas. The reason for this is ADHD does not define a person. They are a unique individual, and one diagnosis does not encapsulate who they are. Giving them a gift that is to help them with something with which they struggle only sends a message that you only that one thing about them. Give them a gift that shows you know and love them for who they are, all of who they are.
So, what should a person get for the ADHDer in their life? I can’t tell you that, but there are a few things to consider.
Think: Hyperfixation
What is the gift recipient focused on right now? People with ADHD often have a subject they love and will dedicate as much of the free time as possible to. (For me, that is currently detective novels. It is incredible how fast I can go through an Agatha Christie audiobook.) However, it is important to note that hyperfixations can suddenly drop off without warning. So, a gift based on the current hyperfixation may not be as long lasting, but it could provide maximum excitement when the present is unwrapped.
Think: High Interest
What does the person for whom you are shopping love? What could they spend hours on? What excites them? That is the route to go. Think about what is of high interest for them. The high interest things can be more long-lasting than a hyperfixation. Try to find something they love and have loved for a long time. (Anything Batman would satisfy me. I have loved Batman and Batman-related products since before my memory begins.)
Think: What Tells Them You Love Them?
As Mr. Rogers once sang, “There are many ways to say, ‘I love you.’” Well thought out gifts are just one way to say, “I love you.” What gift is going to tell the person for whom you are shopping that you love them? The right gift says, “I thought about you and what would make you smile, and this is what I have chosen.” What will most touch the person for whom you are shopping? That is what you should get them.