Maybe some very basic building toys?
http://www.amazon.com/CitiBlocs-200-Piece-Wooden-Building-Blocks/dp/B00267SW96

I don't know a lot about 8 yo boy toys, but I have a 6 yo dd with bad anxiety who loves her light up pillow pet (it refliects stars on the ceiling) and big plug in wall night light. Target has some cool ones shaped like Thor's hammer, etc.

I would probably get a small lego set (star wars is popular I think) and something like the above.

I don't know your relationship, but why don't you give him the gift of time. Offer to take him out to lunch, his choice, and then a movie, park, or other place. Something without the chaos of home.

Hi All. I hope this isn't too frivolous, but I am in need of gift ideas for a boy who is turning 8. He has a diagnosed receptive learning disorder, extreme anxiety, and is in a very chaotic home (looming divorce, ill parent, etc...)

He is very smart, but very stressed and exhibiting some fairly regressive behavior emotionally, so I would love to find some gift ideas that might incorporate more soothing play than comes w/ the stuff around superheroes, ninjas, jedi warriors, etc...

So I thought maybe you all would have suggestions for age appropriate toys that are also gentle, even soothing, and would be appropriate for his receptive learning issues.

Thanks!