Sensory integration is essential in a child’s development as it helps them better interpret the world around them, process information more effectively, and interact socially. Parents need to be aware of activities that can help their children engage with sensory input on a regular basis. Here are 10 do-it-yourself sensory strategies and activities every parent should know about for their child:

1. Use scented play dough – Have your child make shapes out of variously flavored and scented play doughs to engage their olfactory senses.

2. Plan a treasure hunt – Hide objects around the house, giving clues along the way to help your child find each item.

3. Design a sensory garden – Planting flowers, herbs, and plants gives children the opportunity to engage all their senses in one activity.

4. Create an obstacle course – Use items from around the house to create an obstacle course that engages both gross motor skills and tactile processing.

5. Use bubble wrap for tactile input – Provide your child with bubble wrap and allow them to explore the different textures and pops of each bubble.

6. Create a sensory bin – Fill a box or bin with safe items such as sand, water beads, rice, beans, feathers, or foam pieces and let your child explore the various textures.

7. Practice yoga poses – Have your child practice yoga poses to work on their gross motor skills with tactile input.

8. Use a light box or dark box – Create an environment that helps your child explore light and dark through touch and sight.

9. Play music for auditory stimulation – Play different types of music to help your child explore different sounds and rhythms.

10. Make a sensory bottle – Use various objects, such as glitter or sequins, to create visually stimulating bottles that your child can shake and watch.

These activities are easy to do at home and provide children with much needed sensory processing opportunities. By incorporating these do-it-yourself activities into your child’s day, you can help them become better regulated and more successful in their daily lives.

For more information on sensory strategies and activities for children, seek advice from a professional occupational therapist or psychologist. They will be able to provide personalized guidance tailored to the specific needs of your child.

This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for medical or professional advice. If your child is experiencing symptoms that concern you, please contact a licensed healthcare practitioner.

Written by Michelle Silva, OTR/L

When it comes to caring for someone with autism spectrum disorder, especially an adolescent or adult, parents and caregivers shoulder the considerable burden of finding effective therapies that will promote positive behavioral change. Conventionally used exposure-based methods are often too expensive and not as tailored to individual needs as desired. Immersive virtual reality (VR) has been tested in recent studies aimed at improving police interaction skills in adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorder, giving us newfound hope about an improved way for our kids to learn life skills they can use now and into adulthood. This technology is not only revolutionary but also cost-effective – VR therapy presents a unique opportunity to offer specific therapeutic interventions based on customized scenarios without the need for endless hours outside a clinic!

Virtual Reality (VR) has the potential to revolutionize occupational and speech therapy for those on the autism spectrum. VR presents a unique opportunity to provide individualized interventions that are tailored to a person’s specific needs. It also eliminates the need for costly, time-consuming clinic visits while still offering an engaging, immersive experience.

As a parent, you want the best for your child. And when it comes to pediatric therapy, choosing the right environment is crucial for their progress.

Home-based pediatric therapy offers many benefits over traditional clinic-based therapy. First and foremost, your child will feel more comfortable and secure in their familiar home setting. This can lead to a better therapeutic relationship with their therapist and ultimately better outcomes.

Home-based therapy also allows for a more customized approach to treatment, as therapists can address specific challenges that may arise in the child’s home environment. And with the convenience of not having to travel to a clinic, home-based therapy can save time and money for busy families.

Overall, home-based pediatric therapy may be the right choice for your family if you’re looking for a more personalized and convenient approach to your child’s therapy.