Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support

Creating A Sensory Self- Soothing Calming Kit

Children with sensory differences ... painting the world beautiful.

Creating A Sensory Self- Soothing Calming Kit

Jeanette Loftus

As parents, we need to fill our children's sensory diet as much as possible to keep them regulated. Being out at events, stores, travelling or at school can be very overwhelming for our kids so bringing a sensory travel kit with them can be very beneficial. Bringing a sensory kit to outings for our children will make things go a lot smoother. Sensory kits make it easier for them and for us parents too.

When you are out travelling or on an outing, it can be very overwhelming to our senses when we have Sensory Processing Disorder.

Smells can be too strong, sounds can be too loud, lights can be too bright and that can make us very anxious and overstimulated.

There are many names for a sensory kit. Everyone calls a sensory kit something different so you may have heard the kits be called other names such as sensory box, sensory tool kit, soothe kit or a comfort box.
Sensory kits are not only great to prevent meltdowns and fill your child's sensory diet but are also used when you are out and in a crisis situation.

It is important to fill your child's sensory box with items that are familiar to your child that you know your child will enjoy. Their sensory kit doesn't just have to be sensory tools but craft supplies are a great idea to add to their kit too.

Over time we learn to self-sooth ourselves and accommodate our sensory needs but children are just learning what works for them. A sensory kit with sensory tools to assist them while they are out can be very helpful. Your child requires sensory breaks throughout the day to keep them regulated.

Everyone has different sensory needs so each sensory self- soothing travel kit will be different according to your child's sensory needs.

Sensory overload can be extremely difficult for both our children and ourselves when we are running errands, attending appointments or travelling to short or longer destinations. This is why it is so important to find the best tools for your child and have them available to them.

An Occupational Therapist can assist you to find the right sensory tools for your child's sensory needs.

There are so many benefits to using sensory kits.

- Self-Regulation

- Fine Motor Skills

- Calming

- Play Skills

- Hand/Eye Coordination

- Child Led Exploration

- Hands On learning- Motor Development

Types Of Sensory Self- Soothing Travel Kits There are a few different types of sensory kits that you may want to have ready at the door for your child. You may find it helpful to have a sensory kit for your child while they are at school, travelling longer distances, shorter local outings or you may want to keep a sensory kit in your car at all times. Sensory boxes can be available in your home for your child too in their calm down corner or an area in your house.