Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) can make navigating everyday life a challenge for kids, as their brains may process sensory input in unique and sometimes overwhelming ways. Lights may seem too bright, noises too loud, or certain textures intolerable. By understanding their needs and using practical techniques, you can create an environment that helps them thrive.
Here are actionable strategies to support kids with sensory processing challenges and empower them to feel more comfortable and confident.
1. Create a Sensory-Friendly Space
A sensory-friendly space acts as a haven for kids when the world feels too overwhelming. It’s a designated area where they can retreat, decompress, and regain their balance.
What It Looks Like: Include soft lighting, weighted blankets, noise-canceling headphones, and items with soothing textures, such as a plush rug or sensory fidget toys. Let your child help select what feels calming to them.
How to Use It: Encourage them to use this space proactively when they feel overstimulated or before potentially overwhelming activities, like a loud family gathering or a busy shopping trip.
2. Use Deep Pressure Therapy
For many kids with SPD, deep pressure—such as firm hugs or the use of weighted items—can be grounding and calming. It helps regulate the nervous system by providing sensory input in a predictable and soothing way.
Practical Tip: Incorporate activities like rolling your child up in a soft blanket like a “burrito,” offering firm but gentle hugs, or using a weighted vest or lap pad during homework or meals.
Note: Always ask your child if they feel comfortable with this type of input, as sensory preferences vary.
3. Incorporate Sensory Breaks
Long periods of focus or exposure to stimulating environments can lead to sensory overload. Incorporating regular sensory breaks throughout the day can help your child reset and manage their energy.
Ideas to Try:
- Have them jump on a mini trampoline or bounce on a therapy ball.
- Encourage tactile activities like playing with kinetic sand or water beads.
- Let them chew on sensory-safe jewelry if they seek oral input.
These breaks help your child regulate and refocus, making transitions smoother and more manageable.
4. Experiment with Sensory Diets
A sensory diet is a tailored plan of sensory activities designed to meet your child’s specific needs. It includes activities that provide calming or alerting input depending on what they need at different times of the day.
What to Include:
- Proprioceptive Input: Activities like pushing heavy objects, carrying a backpack with light weights, or doing wall push-ups.
- Vestibular Input: Swinging, spinning, or rocking to engage their sense of balance.
- Tactile Input: Playing with textured materials like slime, fabric swatches, or rice bins.
Work with an occupational therapist to create a sensory diet that aligns with your child’s preferences and challenges.
5. Adjust Their Environment
Sometimes, small changes to the environment can make a world of difference for kids with SPD. Reducing sensory triggers and creating a predictable atmosphere helps them feel more at ease.
At Home: Use blackout curtains to block excessive light, or add a white noise machine to muffle distracting sounds. Organize their space to minimize clutter, which can feel overwhelming.
In Public: Bring sensory tools like headphones, sunglasses, or a comfort object when heading to noisy or busy places. Prepare them by explaining what to expect and giving them options if they need a break.
6. Teach Self-Advocacy Skills
Empower your child to express their sensory needs as they grow. Teaching them to recognize when they feel overwhelmed and how to communicate their needs helps build confidence and independence.
How to Start:
- Use simple language like, “Do the lights feel too bright? Would you like to wear sunglasses?”
- Encourage them to use signals, such as raising their hand or showing a card, to request a sensory break at school.
Role-play scenarios at home so they feel prepared to advocate for themselves in real-world situations.
Your Next Steps..
Every child is unique, so it may take time to discover what works best for them. Here are a few questions to reflect on as you explore these strategies:
- Which of these techniques feels most aligned with your child’s sensory preferences, and how can you start incorporating it this week?
- What sensory triggers do you notice most often, and how might you adjust their environment to minimize those challenges?
- How can you involve your child in choosing tools or activities that help them feel calm and secure?