Looking for Christmas gift ideas for a loved one with a disability? After more than 18 years of working with children, young people and adults through music therapy, I’ve found that some musical instruments can be particularly engaging, enjoyable and accessible.
Here are five Christmas gift ideas worth considering. Whether your loved one enjoys making sounds, singing along to favourite songs or exploring music through play, there’s something here to inspire you!
1. Ocean Drum
An ocean drum is a percussion instrument that creates a soothing, wave-like sound when you tilt or gently move it. Small beads move across the drum’s surface, creating the sound of the ocean.
One of the things I love about the ocean drum is how easy it is to play. Simply tilt or move it to create sound, making it a great option for people who may find conventional instruments challenging to use.
I find it particularly useful for gentle, relaxing music-making. Some people enjoy listening to the sound while watching an ocean video, while others prefer simply exploring the sounds the instrument can create.
You can find ocean drums by searching online for “Remo Ocean Drum” or “ocean drum musical instrument”. Try musical instrument retailers and general online marketplaces. They come in different sizes and designs, including versions with fish graphics and transparent surfaces.
2. Rain Stick
A rain stick creates a gentle, cascading sound reminiscent of falling rain when you turn it upside down.
Traditional rain sticks are associated with Indigenous cultures of South America. They were traditionally made from hollowed-out cactus stalks, with the cactus spines pushed inward to create obstacles inside the tube. Small seeds or other natural materials were then placed inside. As the rain stick is turned, these materials trickle past the spines, producing a gentle, rain-like sound.
I prefer to use colourful, transparent versions designed for children. These allow the user to watch the beads trickle through the instrument as they listen to the sound.
Rain sticks are easy to explore and can be enjoyable for people who like gentle sounds and visual movement. They can also be incorporated into musical activities, such as creating the sound of rain in a song or story.
Search for “rain stick musical instrument”, “transparent rain stick,” “children’s rain stick” or “rainmaker“. These can be found at toy shops and online marketplaces.
3. Tongue Drum
Tongue drums produce beautiful, resonant tones when you tap their surfaces. They have cut-out sections, often described as tongues, that vibrate to produce different notes.
Some tongue drums are large or expensive, but smaller, more affordable versions are now widely available.
One of the great things about these instruments is that you don’t need to know how to play music. Simply tapping different sections produces pleasant sounds, making them accessible to people with little or no musical experience.
A tongue drum can be a lovely gift for someone who enjoys exploring sounds, creating simple melodies or listening to the different tones an instrument can produce.
Search for “steel tongue drum”, “mini tongue drum” or “small tongue drum with mallets”. These are available through online marketplaces and some musical instrument retailers. Compare the size, number of notes, included mallets and sound demonstrations before purchasing, as the instruments can vary considerably.
4. Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone
Does your loved one enjoy singing? A Bluetooth karaoke microphone could be a fantastic Christmas gift!
Technology has made it easier than ever to enjoy singing at home. Many Bluetooth microphones have built-in speakers, USB charging and the ability to connect to a phone or other device to play backing tracks. Some models also have colourful lights and voice effects, adding to the fun.
I particularly like this idea for people who enjoy singing along to their favourite songs. Having a microphone can make the experience feel like performing on stage as a pop star or rock star!
Search for “Bluetooth karaoke microphone with speaker”, “rechargeable karaoke microphone” or “wireless karaoke microphone with lights”. General electronics retailers and online marketplaces are good places to start. Check whether the microphone can play backing tracks, whether it has a built-in speaker and whether the volume can be adjusted.
5. Lollipop Drum
A lollipop drum is a colourful percussion instrument with a round drum head attached to a handle. Its shape can make it visually appealing, particularly for younger children.
These drums are simple to play: tap the drum head with a suitable beater or your hand to produce a sound. They can be used for copying rhythms, playing along with songs or simply exploring sound.
Their bright colours and distinctive shape can make them particularly engaging for children who enjoy visually interesting objects.
One thing to keep in mind is that the lollipop-like appearance might encourage some children to put the instrument in their mouths. Choose an appropriate size and design, supervise use when necessary, and check that the materials and construction are suitable for the intended user.
Search for “lollipop drum.” Try musical instrument shops, early childhood education suppliers and online marketplaces.
A Note on Choosing Musical Instruments
The suggestions in this article are general recommendations based on my experience as a music therapist. Every person has different interests, abilities and support needs, so an instrument that works well for one person may not be suitable for another.
Before purchasing an instrument, check the manufacturer’s age recommendations, product safety information, durability, small parts and volume levels. Consider whether the instrument is appropriate for the person’s grip, sensory preferences and tendency to mouth or chew objects. Some instruments may require close supervision or adaptations to be used safely.
These suggestions are not a substitute for an individual assessment of suitability. If you are unsure, seek advice from an appropriate professional or contact the manufacturer for further information.
A Final Thought
I hope these ideas help you find something special to put on your loved one’s Christmas wish list!
Remember, the best gift isn’t necessarily the most expensive or complicated instrument. Think about what the person enjoys, how they like to explore their environment and what they can comfortably hold, move or interact with.
If you’re considering a particular instrument and aren’t sure whether it would be suitable, feel free to leave a comment or get in touch. I’d be happy to share my thoughts and help you explore the options.
Happy Shopping! Merry Christmas!
