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    • May 5
    • 2 min read

How can I provide sensory input for my child?

Written by Tricia Au


Children who have Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) have a lack of sensory stimulation. These children require the appropriate sensory input in order to fulfill their sensorial needs. By providing the needed sensory input, the children are more regulated and will be able to perform better. Moreover, there will also be a decrease in behaviour issues when the children’s sensorial needs are met.


Tactile input


  • Make a sandwich using a pillow

  • Create a burrito using yoga mat or thick blanket

  • Activities that involve tactile senses and also other senses. For example, bury small toys in a construction site and have the child look for it with their eyes closed or even simple gardening (different soil and leaf texture is beneficial)

  • Explore different sensorial materials like beans, pasta, rice, sandbox

  • Water play (add food colouring, soap, shaving foam, silly string), you can use ladle, cups, containers, funnel, bowls, water squirters, boats during the water play

  • Shaving foam and sand play/glitter glue (adds texture)

  • Play dough itself or playdough with beads/marbles/ uncooked pasta added to create more sensory stimulation

  • Finger painting

  • Dress up like costumes, face paints, make up

  • Deep pressure through massage or hugs


Proprioceptive input


  • Jump on trampoline

  • Push ups on the ground/against the wall

  • Wheelbarrow

  • Crab walk

  • Frog jump

  • Heavy marching


Vestibular input


  • Spinning or running in circles

  • Hanging upside down on monkey bars

  • Log roll

  • Sledding

  • Riding a bike

  • Skating

  • Drag/swing the person in a blanket (sort of like a human hammock)

  • Sit on a therapy/gym ball

Reference


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