Lifesavers- Sensory tools that really do help!
Hello everyone! I wanted to try something different tonight...So many special needs parents and educators are always looking for ways to help our kiddos do their very best while accommodating things that are out of their control such as sensory tools. Over the years I have tried many different products to help with varying difficulties. Here are some that I have tried and will stick by because they have worked for more than one individual on my service. They can all be found on Amazon, and in different prices and brands so I will not specify any specific brands because of that. If you have other needs or questions beyond what I post please ask away in the comments and I will be happy to help!
Sit fit cushion- good for movement while sitting
Stretchy bands- These work well for kids that like to have movement and squish in their hands. The only warning is that if the child is creative they may try to whip them.
Stretchy stress balls- These are AMAZING! I bought a pack of these and before I could get them to my students fellow staff members were wanting them. They are very satisfying and soothing and difficult to break.
Chair bands- these are another great tool for students who like to be on the move. The band is very stretchy yet durable and still keeps the child's focus on the speaker.
Oral fixation is a common difficulty for children on the spectrum...mine being one of them. We have tried so many chews for him but he is a rough chewer and has chewed through almost all that we have tried. I have found the ones that are ribbed like the ones shown here prevent him from biting as hard. Another piece of advice that works at home but not always at school is healthy crunchy snacks frequently. It satisfies their need and prevents them from chewing or digesting (yes we have had trips to the radiologist for X-rays) any unwanted items.
Difficulties sitting still and focusing:
Sit fit cushion- good for movement while sittingMarble fidgets- a great quiet fidget to pass in-between the fingers so as to keep busy but also stay focused.
Stretchy bands- These work well for kids that like to have movement and squish in their hands. The only warning is that if the child is creative they may try to whip them.
Stretchy stress balls- These are AMAZING! I bought a pack of these and before I could get them to my students fellow staff members were wanting them. They are very satisfying and soothing and difficult to break. 
Chair bands- these are another great tool for students who like to be on the move. The band is very stretchy yet durable and still keeps the child's focus on the speaker. ORAL SENSORY ISSUES
Oral fixation is a common difficulty for children on the spectrum...mine being one of them. We have tried so many chews for him but he is a rough chewer and has chewed through almost all that we have tried. I have found the ones that are ribbed like the ones shown here prevent him from biting as hard. Another piece of advice that works at home but not always at school is healthy crunchy snacks frequently. It satisfies their need and prevents them from chewing or digesting (yes we have had trips to the radiologist for X-rays) any unwanted items. Proprioceptive Input
Proprioceptive system is located in our muscles and joints and many with sensory difficulties need proprioceptive input (pressure) to help calm down and focus less on what is overwhelming them. The following tools I have found help in this process.
Sensory Swings- These are excellent outlets for individuals who are needing an outlet after a stressful task or day. the stretchy swing can adjust height and wraps around the body like a glove creating full body pressure which enhances a calming effect.
Weighted Vests- Many have heard of the new trend which is weighted blankets...well these are similar except they can travel with you and you don't need to be sitting or laying down to feel the weight and pressure. These vests assist students with self regulation throughout the day. Make sure to research weight guidelines and never buy too heavy as it is not safe.
Weighted blankets- These have been the newest trend for a few years now and help not only those with special needs and sensory issues, but many who just suffer with sleep difficulties. They make them in different sizes, textures, weight placements, etc...If your child or student struggles with sleep issues (stay tuned for my next blog which will be all about these issues) this may be the key to those sleepless nights. Again, do your research and make sure you buy the right weight.
Compression shirts- If your child does not want to wear a bulky vest all day then compression shirts have the same effect and you can find them anywhere that sells sporting clothing!
HEARING SENSITIVITY
Many children struggle with loud noises and have trouble being in many areas that have groups or that have noises that are at loud decibels. Noise cancellers are great to assist with this difficulty!
I will do another blog post on more sensory tools and tips at a later date, but for now these are the most typical needs that I see and I do hope that they help you in this journey that we walk together! Are there any areas that you are wanting me to address? Comment below and share👇
❤Author- Lindsey Cruz- Special Education Mama and Teacher
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