Gifts for special needs children?

I have two cousins both with special needs. I have a hard time trying to buy them gifts so I'm looking for some suggestions. Ultimately I want to try to make these kids happy and make life a bit easier for their parents if I can.

One has Autism. He is 11, he really doesn't talk or interact much at all. He plays a few sports with special olympics. The only toys or movies I ever see him with are "toy story" things. I was thinking of getting him clothes he could wear when he plays sports but I know he has tactile sensitivities so I'm really at a loss. Any suggestions?

My Aunt and Uncle have a very tough row to hoe. Their other son is 7 and has Downs Syndrome. He loves curious George so I can figure out a gift for him but....

If anyone can suggest a gift for the entire family that may help them out please let me know.

Have you asked Mom & Dad? There might be some very specific things that are no no's...and there might be some great ideas too..Im somewhat at a loss with the Autism.

As far as the Down Syndrome is concerned, without knowing his functioning level, my only suggestion would be to not go by age appropriateness of the toy...does that make sense? Again I would ask Mom & Dad..

I know myself...that I never wanted anyone else buying my DD anything "educational" for Christmas or her birthday. Those gifts were for fun...KWIM?

I think Music is always a wonderful gift. CD's like Laurie Berkner or Hap Palmer are great. As for a family gift, ask mom and dad first of course, but maybe a beta fish in a bowl. I think fish are really relaxing, and feeding time is an interactive family event.

It is difficult to make suggestions for toys without knowing the child's specific level of function. However, I always recommend Lakeshore Learning Center to all my home care parents for educational toys for children with special needs.

Here is the link

I also like Lakeshore. Toys r Us also has a catalog now that links toys with specific learning/social needs.

Maybe an Amex or Visa gift card. I find that they work out the best when you're not sure what to buy.