Planning In-Home Sensory Activities for Children with Special Needs: A Guide for Parents
When your child seeks extra sensory input, it can be challenging to know the best way to help them feel balanced. Children who are sensory seekers often crave movement and tactile experiences throughout the day. They may be constantly on the go, tapping their hands, jumping, or even engaging in energetic play. However, for children with sensory needs, it’s essential to plan activities that both alert and calm their nervous system. In this article, we’ll explore ways to plan physical activities at home to help your child feel more regulated, using simple, practical ideas that any parent can try.
Understanding Sensory Seeking Behavior
What Does It Mean to Be a Sensory Seeker?
Sensory seekers are children who crave extra sensory stimulation. They might exhibit behaviors such as:
- Constant movement, like tapping, jumping, or running
- A desire to engage in physical play throughout the day
It’s important to remember that while these children actively seek stimulation, they also benefit from activities that help them calm down. A balanced approach to physical activity—one that alternates between alerting (energizing) and calming (soothing) activities—can help regulate your child’s sensory experiences.
The Need for Both Alerting and Calming Activities
To create a balanced sensory diet at home, it’s helpful to include both types of activities:
- Alerting Activities: These are designed to “wake up” the nervous system, providing the sensory input your child may be craving. They involve physical movements and activities that are lively and engaging.
- Calming Activities: Once your child’s sensory threshold is met through alerting activities, calming strategies help to soothe and regulate their sensory system. These activities encourage relaxation and provide deep pressure or gentle touch that can help ease hyperactivity.
Combining both alerting and calming activities ensures that your child gets the energy boost they need. While also learning how to settle down afterward, leading to a more stable mood and behavior.
In-Home Alerting Activities for Sensory Seekers
Even if you’re limited to indoor spaces, there are plenty of ways to incorporate alerting activities at home. Here are some ideas:
- Mini-Trampoline Fun:
If space allows, consider investing in a mini-trampoline. It provides a safe, contained space for jumping and can be a great way to burn off excess energy. - Pillow Fort Rough-and-Tumble Play:
Use soft pillows and blankets to create a playful environment where your child can engage in gentle rough-and-tumble play. This controlled setting prevents injuries while offering the physical engagement they need. - Animal Walks:
Encourage your child to mimic animals by crawling like a bear, hopping like a frog, or waddling like a penguin around the room. These creative movements are fun and provide varied sensory input, engaging different muscle groups and coordination skills. - Steps-Up on Chair:
In a safe and supervised setting, have your child perform step-ups on a stable, low chair. This activity not only adds a fun, challenging element to their play but also helps build strength, balance, and coordination. - Dynamic Dance Sessions:
Encourage your child to dance along to their favorite upbeat music. Dancing provides physical exercise, fosters creativity, and acts as a joyful outlet for energy. - DIY Obstacle Course:
Create a simple obstacle course using household items like cushions, cones made of empty water bottles, and small steps. This course helps your child navigate various challenges while engaging in active play.
Integrating these activities into your daily routine can help maintain your child’s alertness without overwhelming them—a necessary component of a well-rounded sensory diet.
In-Home Calming Activities for Sensory Regulation
After a burst of energy, your child can benefit from activities that help calm and focus their senses. Here are some indoor ideas:
- Therapy Ball Rolls:
Have your child lie on their stomach and gently roll a therapy ball from their ankles to their shoulders. This deep-pressure rolling activity soothes the nervous system. - Deep Pressure Foot Massage:
A gentle massage on the soles of your child’s feet can be highly effective in releasing tension. Use your fingers or a soft massage tool to apply consistent pressure. - Cuddle-Up Log Roll:
Wrap your child in a cozy, soft blanket and gently roll them back and forth. This “log roll” simulates a comforting hug, offering deep pressure that can help ground them. - Heavy Blanket Time:
Encourage your child to relax under a weighted or heavy blanket. The added pressure provides a sense of security and calm that particularly beneficial before bedtime or after active play. - Sensory Putty or Stress Balls:
Using squeeze therapy putty or soft stress balls gives tactile stimulation in a gentle way, engaging your child’s sense of touch while also promoting relaxation.
These calming activities are designed to help your child transition from a high-energy state to a more relaxed one. Making it easier for them to focus on quieter activities, learning, or sleep.
Final Thoughts
Creating an in-home schedule that includes both alerting and calming activities is an effective strategy for managing sensory issues in children. By using practical and adaptable activities, you can help your child stay regulated throughout the day. Providing them with the sensory input they crave while also teaching them how to wind down.
Incorporating these ideas into your home routine means taking proactive steps towards better sensory integration and overall well-being for your child. Embrace the journey of discovering what works best for your child, and enjoy the moments of creative exploration together.
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