Create Your Own Sensory Area
During a recent workshop, I asked my audience to raise their hand if their child with Autism did not have sensory issues. Not one person raised their hand.
Of course, not all children with Autism have difficulty processing sensory input, just as not all children with sensory processing disorders have Autism. If your child does, and has difficulty getting motivated and staying on task, or needs constant sensory input to calm him down, try creating a sensory area in your home.
Caution: Always supervise your child in a sensory area.
Benefits of a sensory area:
- It helps your child develop a greater sensory awareness.
- It promotes self-regulation. It will energize your child or calm him down.
- It encourages learning and appropriate behavior. By allowing your child to release energy in a designated space, he will be more likely to stay seated for work time or meals.
- It is a safe, comfortable space where your child can explore a variety of sensory input.
- It helps your child learn how to control any inappropriate tendencies in a safe environment.
- It promotes independence.
- It encourages communication.
- It increases on-task behavior.
A sensory area can include:
- An area to release energy by jumping or bouncing.
- A yoga ball, air mattress, and trampoline.
- A tunnel to transition.
- A calming, quiet area.
- Bean bags, a tent, and/or a sleeping bag.
- A sensory container with different fabrics, such as satin, sandpaper, cotton, flannel, etc.
- A sensory container filled with rice, sand, or beans.
Create your sensory area in an easily accessible and convenient place in your home. Put a photograph or symbol of the sensory area in your child’s daily schedule, and encourage him to use the area before tasks that require him to sit for longer periods.
You can use the area as a reward, as a structured activity, or even as a quiet, relaxing space. You can also try using quiet music, or fun dance music. A sensory area is a great place to experiment with activities that may motivate or calm your child. Be creative and have fun!
Reminder: Again, please be sure to supervise all activities in the sensory area.