How To Create A Sensory Self- Soothing Travel Kit



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 toolkit, 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. 




Why should I Create A Sensory Self- Soothing Travel Kit?



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. 




Benefits To Having a Sensory Self- Soothing Travel Kit




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. 




What Is A Sensory Diet? 




To understand what a sensory diet is, we first need to understand sensory processing disorder (SPD).

Simply put, SPD is when the sensory input received is not processed or organized accurately, resulting in the sensory information being inaccurately interpreted by the person. Leading them to not respond appropriately to the sensory experience. 

Likely you've come across the phrase ‘sensory diet’ while reading about sensory processing disorder. You’ve probably figured out a sensory diet is not a food diet, but an activity diet.

A sensory diet consists of performing activities that provide specific types of sensory input to help a child regulate and learn how to process sensory input more effectively.

Sensory diets are unique to the individual and their needs. Because of this, there will be some experimentation along the way to find exactly what works for your child and situation.
  
 It is important to connect with an Occupational Therapist trained in sensory integration so you can learn how to most successfully include a sensory diet in your child’s day.




What To Put In A Sensory Self- Soothing Travel Kit





Sensory boxes are usually for when you are on the go. They don't need to be expensive and can be within your budget. A trip to a few dollar stores will help you cut down on the costs as they now sell fidgets, putty and other sensory products. 

You can rotate sensory box items throughout the year. Your child can experience new sensory items regularly. Some parents like to switch out sensory items in their child's kits for different holidays, themes and seasons. 

You can put your child's sensory kit items in a caddy, backpack, reusable bag or a plastic container. Decide what to put the sensory items in based on your affordability and needs. 

The container you choose doesn't really matter as much as what is in the bag or box. 

You could make it a fun activity for you and your child and decorate a box together. 




Tactile Sensory Tools  (what you feel/touch) 


Sensory Diet Tactile Activities
- brushing different textured brushes over the skin
- drawing with chalk on the body
- massage with oils, lotions and powders
brushing for sensory defensiveness 
- rubbing different fabric textures against the skin
- drawing in sand or salt
- sensory play (water, sand, slime play dough, clay)
- finger painting
- sensory bins (rice, beans)
- face and body painting
- bubble bath and swimming
- body tattoos or stickers on the body
- deep pressure 
- gardening and plating flowers
- toys with vibration
- playing in the mud
- cooking and baking


Adding clay, sensory dough, pieces of different fabrics, stress balls or putty are all fantastic tactile sensory tools. As I said earlier, it doesn't need to be expensive but here are some tactile sensory ideas for you. 





Little Chubby One Sensory Textured Squares - Mini Pillows and Patches - Set of 20 Different Covered Squares Promotes Sensory Learning Motor Skills Tactile Awareness and Vocabulary Great Gift for Kids
20-Piece Set: Little Chubby One’s Sensory Textured Squares includes 10 pairs of pillows and patches, boasting bold colors and various textures to help children develop tactile discrimination skills.
Developmental Skills: A relaxing and calming activity for kids, these textured squares encourage children to engage in hands-on, tactile play, helping them to develop social and emotional interactions.
Textured Squares: Is the material scratchy, slippery, silky or soft? With multiple, textured surfaces, children can enjoy a variety of hands-on activities including matching, descriptors, communication and tactile discrimination.

Durable Textured Stretchy String Fidget and Sensory Toy - 15 Packs of Individually Packaged Monkey Noodles We at Kelz Kidz have again taken a popular toy and developed it to a new level! Each box contains 5 different noodle textures for a much more enhanced sensory experience. Check out our “Bumpy”, “Spiky”, “Ridges”, “Liner”, and of course our classic “Smooth”. Every noodle has ball endings for a greater grip as you pull and stretch for loads of fun! These extra stimuli are especially beneficial for those with Autism, ADD, and Anxiety!
When we write Kids Safe we really mean it. As with all of our toys, we test our Stretchy Strings under highly qualified testing labs to ensure that every aspect of our construction is completely safe for kids and adults alike. They are 100% latex free, BPA free, and fully hypoallergenic.



Wikki Stix Fidgit Stix
A fun, simple and colorful presentation just for those who need some hands-on fidget “therapy”! 36 Wikki Stix in six bright colors, in a reclosable poly bag making it easy to keep this fidget toy handy.
Ideal for fidgety fingers on airplanes… or during those long, boring zoom meetings…or just to have something soothing and calming to manipulate in-hand.
Easy to bend, twist and shape… again and again. Soft, pliable and quiet…perfect for fidgety fingers whenever the need arises.
Easy to tuck into briefcase, carry-on or purse…and a super fun stocking stuffer!

Pinch Me Therapy Dough Relief
Soft and feminine with just a hint of fruitiness, this delicate fusion helps blunt disquietude. Inhale tranquility and exhale the rest as you knead your way to a more placid place. 
No matter what today handed you, Relief is just a pinch away.

Our sense of smell originates in the same part of the brain that is responsible for storing emotional memories, so, unlike colors, scents evoke a personalized response. When we like a scent, we unconsciously take a full, deep breath, which is relaxing; we want to experience as much of the positive feeling as we can. 




11''Stretchy Spaghetti Ball,Fidget String Noodles Sensory Toy,Fiddle Autism Stress Toy,Pasta Autism,ADD,ADHD Classroom Tools
Stretchy Spaghetti Ball Fidget Noodle Sensory Fidget Fiddle Autism Stress Toy Fidget or sensory toys help with sensory integration, build motor skills, and teach self-regulation. They help maintain focus and help a child on the autism spectrum, a.d.h.d, a.d.d and/or sensory processing disorder, better process information. For some children sensory fidgets can also be helpful in maintaining socially acceptable behaviors. A fidget toy provides an outlet for excess energy, making it easier for a child to control or reduce their impulsive reaching out and touching everything around them.

Fidget Toys Stress and Anxiety Relief Marble Mesh Fidget Toy - Pack of 10 Silent Mesh and Marble Fidget Toy
The mesh and marble fidget toy helps improve attention and offers stress and anxiety relief. They are highly recommended by therapists and teachers as silent sensory fidgets for classroom with ADHD & concentration issues. Our fidget toys stress and anxiety relief calm you & help increase focus and attention.
With their texture & smooth, these ADHD fidget toys for sensory kids will BREAK HABITS like nail biting, twisting hair, or pen ticking. 







Therapy Shoppe Jumbo Crystal Squeeze Ball
NEW! Jumbo 5" liquid-filled squeeze ball with thick rubbery skin and shiny swirling ribbons that dance & twirl around inside it! This captivating sensory fidget ball weighs just over 1 pound and is a jiggly, wiggly tactile delight for sensory seekers ages 6+!  A calming (or alerting) eye-candy fidget tool for short brain breaks at school, home, or the office. A nice 2-handed bilateral stress relief fiddle tool.  Jumbo Crystal Squeeze Balls are designed for gentle-moderate fidgeting.  Please note it will leak and break if it's overstretched or punctured/poked with a sharp object.  Not for young children.  Sensational!

Beadeez Squishy Stress Balls with DNA Spiky Textures (3-Pack) Colorful Sensory Toy and Stress Relief for Kids, Adults - Squeezy Water Beads - Promote Calm Focus for ADHD, Autism
Squishy, Spiky, and Colorful Fun – Beadeez! stretchy stress balls feature DNA colored water beads and a spiky to provide both mental and physical stimulation in a safe, non-toxic toy that’s perfect for restoring focus and relieving stress or anxiety.
Exciting Sensory Toy Pack – This 3-pack of stress relief toys for adults and kids are small enough to be enjoyed at home, in the car, at work, or on the go, providing support for those with ADHD, autism, fidgeting, or stress-related behaviors.



Frankie Smunchie Smunchies® are a 2-in-1 hair & sensory accessory lovingly made to provide discrete sensory companionship at home or on the go with unmatched hold & lift for your hair. 
Pinch, smoosh, fidget & squeeze to your heart's content. Smunchies are designed with your wellness in mind providing an easy go-to for self-soothing and sensory processing. 
We strive to curate luscious and soothing textures, colors, and patterns that deliver a sensory experience with just the right squish and give for tingle-worthy feels.
Smunchies offer all the benefits of your regular scrunchie or hair tie and more!
Our patent-pending squishy interior delivers an unexpected added lift & support keeping your hair way up and out of your way effortlessly.

Pinch Me Therapy Dough Citrus
Awaken your senses to the tangy zest of fresh, ripe fruit. Clean, crisp and refreshing. And the best part? Our CITRUS is seedless.
Say hello to Pinch Me, a holistic, drug-free, portable stress-reduction tool. This pliable putty was expertly developed to be the ideal texture for perfect pinchability. When you feel a hint of stress, pull out your container. Gently knead away nuisances, or use it while you're relaxing to decompress and get back to center.

Playlearn Therapy Putty Pack
Therapy putty will strengthen fine motor muscles, encourage the pincer grasp and provide great tactile stimulation. It is also a fantastic stress reliever that fits right in your pocket. Fidgeting students love to squeeze and twist the putty as they focus, and sensory-seeking children love the input! Each color represents a different firmness level: the higher the resistance, the more strengthening/stimulating the activity will be.

INNER-ACTIVE Play Putty Therapy Putty for Kids with Charms Deep Blue Sea Theraputty Soft Resistance, Increase Fine Motor Skills and Finger Strength, Physical and Occupational Therapy Toy
Contains 3.5oz silicone therapy putty and a set of 10 beautifully hand painted charms (seahorse, octopus, dolphin, fish, whale, penguin, starfish, walrus, crab, and a snail) in a 4" metal tin that can withstand years of use
THERAPY TOOL – Play for hours, kneading, squeezing, bouncing, tearing, and stretching; searching for animals gives kneading regular, boring putty more fun, develop fine motor skills, intrinsic hand muscles and coordination, increases finger strength and in-hand manipulation skills, Sensory tool for tactile input






Odin Books Mini Thinking Putty Funky Fidget  Sooth your inner fidget by working this satisfying funky feeling. Mash that putty and POP! POW! PRESTO! Keep those fingers digging.
Thinking Putty® helps build hand and finger strength through a fabulous tactile play experience with unique, unexpected properties and provides relaxing, yet stimulating interaction for anyone with sensory integration issues.
Crazy Aaron's putty is non-toxic, won't dry out, and won't leave a sticky or slippery residue on your fingers, so it's great for stretching, molding, bouncing, tearing, popping and playing by kids and adults alike.



Visual Sensory Tools (what you see)


Sensory Diet Visual Activities
- sensory bottles
- color matching games
- light table activities
-  visual schedules 
- marble mazes
- light up toys
- spinning toys
- kaleidoscopes
- catching a ball
- I spy games
- bean bag toss
- stringing beads
- liquid motion toys
- drawing pictures
- dot to dot worksheets
- water play
- shadow puppets
- bubbles
- fidgets 


Adding photos of things or people your child loves, blowing bubbles, affirmation cards or letting your child look through photos on your phone are all great ideas. They don't need to be expensive. Here are some visual sensory tools for more ideas. 


Breathing Exercise Cards for Kids: Help Children to Calm and Focus
You can use these cards during brain breaks in the classroom, transition times, as part of your calm corner, or simply explore breath-ing exercises at home with your kids. There are thirty unique exercises to choose from.
These cards are easy to use and cap-ture the attention of children from ages 4 years on up. The design is clear, and the illustrations are realistic, allowing children to easily visualize the breathing techniques. The colorful breath-ing exercise cards guide them through each technique. This deck also includes a handy index and detailed instructions for each exercise so you'll feel confident introducing these breathing techniques to your children.



Expandable Breathing Ball Toy Sphere for Kids & Adults, Expands from 5.6" to 12" - Kids Fidgets Toys ADHD, Yoga Relaxation Meditation Accessories
 Relax and calm your mind & body with this expandable breathing ball techniques that is designed to bring the body into a state of deep relaxation
Expands from 5.5" to 12" Hold in front of your belly, take deep breath in while Expanding the ball, exhale slowly while contracting the sphere.
Can be used for Kids & Adults with Anxiety, stress relief toys for calming center for classroom, Kinetic calming fidget toys, ADHD tools, anxiety toys, mindful breathing exercise gadgets, yoga accessory for relaxation. Autism Toys, office desk fidget

Fusion Sensory Tubes for Kids, Colors Mix for Visual Sensory Play, Fidget Tubes for Students, Occupational Therapy Toys Liquid Motion Bubbler Count Down Timer (Set of 2)
Explore Colors - Set of 2 color fusion sensory tubes takes primary colors and mixes them to form secondary colors – red + yellow = orange and blue + yellow = green
Vibrant and beautiful colors that will come together and separate again and again and could be used indefinitely as a teaching tool for children learning about primary and secondary colors
Occupational Therapy Tool – Recommended for calm down corners for relaxing, calming and de-stressing or given for sensory break to provide visual stimulation, could be used as a visual timer when colors are fused together and separates again to work on patience and taking turns

2-Pack Original Monkey Fidget Star Kid Sensory Toys to Help Calm & Focus - 3D Star Shaped Fidget Toys for Stress Relief in Children - Multi-Color Fidget Toy Pack for Mesmerizing Hours of Fun

Stop Your Kid From Monkeying Around – Our fidget pack is for children who need a little distraction to help channel their energy. The bright blue and yellow colors of this fidget set will help stimulate their creativity while providing tactile fun

Stress-Relieving 2 Pack – These mesmerizing anxiety relief toys will help keep your child calm and focused. With a fidget pack of 2, keep one at school and one at home. Create stationary stars or move them into fascinating telescope positions

Playlearn Variety Pack Liquid Timers - 3 Pack
Often children want to self-regulate but need help getting there. The Liquid Timer is a great resource: visually captivating, and mentally calming.

Watching the gel drip down in tiny drops and following them to the very bottom, will quiet the loudest minds.  Children won’t be able to resist turning it over again and starting from the beginning!

Made durably to endure normal usage.

Playlearn Spiral Liquid Timers - 3 Pack
Often children want to self-regulate but need help getting there. The Liquid Timer is a great resource: visually captivating, and mentally calming.

Watching the gel drip down in tiny drops and following them to the very bottom, will quiet the loudest minds.  Children won’t be able to resist turning it over again and starting from the beginning!

Made durably to endure normal usage.

Sensory Hand Fidget Spinner Toy, ADHD Autism Anixiety Stress Relief Gift for Adults Students and Kids (Small 2pcs)
According to the different thickness of individual fingers, we have designed 3 rings of different sizes to match the fingers. The size can be suitable for people of all ages. 
Rounded corners and smooth surface protect your hands from scratches
Just insert one finger into the ring and turn it, no tricks required, and it's ready to use right out of the box
By rotating the sensory toys, you can relieve the stress and anxiety caused by work or life. For people who are born with ADHD and inattention, fidget toys are great for helping them focus and think deeply

Liquid Motion Bubble Timer - Rectangular Sensory Relaxation Water Toy
The descending bubbles have a soothing and mesmerizing effect that will keep kids entertained for hours. These sensory toys can help improve visual tracking skills.
Its slow and rhythmic drops have a very appeasing effect and actually help kids with sensory or hyperactivity. Makes perfect autism sensory toys to sooth and remain focused.

Endless hours of calming entertainment.

hand2mind ColorMix Sensory Fidget Tubes, Anxiety Relief Toy, Occupational Therapy Toys, Fidget Toys for Kids, Kids Sensory Toys for Sensory Play, Anxiety Relief Items for Kids (Set of 3)
Sensory Products Built For Social Emotional Learning
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is the process by which children and adults understand and manage emotions; set and achieve positive goals; learn, observe and model empathy; establish and maintain positive relationships; and make responsible decisions. Learning to manage feelings, respond positively to stressful situations, and get along with others is a vital part of childhood development.

QB Hive Unicorn Sensory Bottle - Zen Bottle - Sparkle Glitter Jar - Meditation & Mindfulness Tool - Great for Focus
Easy to Use - just give this calming unicorn themed jar a vigorous shake and watch the glitter move and shine.
This shimmering unicorn sensory bottle is sure to please with the combination of glitter and confetti shaped like unicorn horns, heads, and full bodies.
With eye-catching and mesmerizing pink, purple, blue and gold, you'll start to believe that unicorns may not be fantasy after all!
Useful anywhere – use to unwind, add a unicorn theme to your home, bring to the office to reduce stress, use as a meditation & mindfulness tool, as a fidget and focus tool, and more.

Hand2mind Mindful Maze Boards, 3 Double Sided Breathing Boards with Finger Paths, Mindfulness for Kids, Social Emotional Learning, Sensory Board, Anxiety Relief Items, Occupational Therapy Toys
A screen free way to teach kids how to sooth themselves with hands-on resources that help build social-emotional skills for children by providing cues and physical objects to guide kids through breathing exercises. Mindful Maze Boards would make a great addition to your therapy toys.
Each set of our Mindful Mazes comes with three double-sided mindful maze boards. Mindful Maze Boards would be a great addition to your calm down toys for your classroom, daycare or home calming corner!
Our calming sensory toys are perfect for occupational therapy activities for kids. 




hand2mind PAWZ The Calming Pup, Learn Deep Breathing, Rechargeable Animal Night Light, Kids Anxiety Relief, Mindfulness for Kids, Calm Down Corner Supplies, Social Emotional Learning Activities
PAWZ, the Calming Pup, will become a beloved, calming companion to each child, as it's auto-adjusting light guides children though deep breathing patterns.
Perfect for any calming corner, each kid will follow the lighted prompts: inhaling when the light gets brighter and then exhaling as the light fades.
This engaging breathing activity encourages children to be fully present and bring awareness to their thoughts and feelings, while also learning to manage stressful situations and provide anxiety relief for kids.
.
Retro Light Up Kids Toys Includes 8 Inch Gyro Wheel and 8.5 Inch Rail Twister - Fun Gift for Boys and Girls - Great Sensory Toy with Spinning and Flashing Light Effects
These magnetic gyro wheels don’t easily come off, feature well-aligned rails, and are fitted with LEDs that don’t prematurely short out. This gives the two light up toys durability to make for countless hours of play. The magnetic gyro wheel also presents the perfect opportunity to give your little one a fun science lesson. The fascinating lighting effects and movement create a soothing effect that can help curb hyperactivity. These retro-inspired spinning toys encourage enhanced motor skills and valuable hand exercise during play time. 


hand2mind Mindful Maze Garden Pack, Finger Labyrinth for Kids, Mindfulness for Kids, Sensory Play Therapy Toys, Calm Down Corner Supplies, Social Emotional Learning Activities (Set of 2)
2 double-sided boards cover 4 breathing patterns.
Breathing tracks are large enough to fit pom-poms, rice, beans, etc., to add a multisensory element to exploring mindfulness.
A screen free way to teach children how to sooth themselves by providing cues and physical objects to guide them through breathing exercises.
These Mindful Maze Boards would make a great addition to your calm down corner toys, classroom, daycare, or home calming corner!



Auditory  Sensory Tools (what you hear)  


Sensory Diet Auditory Activities
- use noise reduction headphones 
- listen to music
- play clapping games
- walk and listen to nature
- play an instrument
- listen to audio books
- use a sound machine
- shake a rice sensory bottle 
- sing in a microphone
- play matching sound games
- play speaking and listening games
- storytelling
- play with sound puzzles
- dance to different music
- play telephone games
- practice heavy work activities 


A small portable sound machine or listening to calming music on their tablet are both auditory sensory tools that you can use when you and your child are on the go. Here are some visual sensory tool ideas when putting together your child's sensory kit. 


Finger Poppers Fidget Toy - Finger Fidget Toy for Adults and Kids - Finger Strengthener and Exerciser - Fidget Toy Ring Sensory Toy- Pop Tube Occupational Therapy Toys, Pack of 2
Pop tube fidgety toys: Slip these finger pop tubes on your fingers, then stretch and compress the tube for fun, satisfying and sensory stimulation. This finger fidget ring can help relieve stress and can help manage anxiety, frustration, agitation, boredom, and excitement.
Fun finger strengthener: These fidget pop tubes' popping noise and push-n-pull friction keep you hooked, perfect for strengthening finger muscles. Use this finger slimmer while sitting at a red light, on an exhausting video call, trying to quit a bad habit, or to fill awkward silences.




Therapy Shoppe Junior Earmuffs
Durable Junior Earmuffs designed especially to fit children! Feature an adjustable, padded headband and comfy, liquid-foam ear cushions. These quality sensory earphones reduce environmental noise up to 22 decibels; allowing the wearer to still hear conversations and commands. The perfect sensory diet tool for kids who have auditory defensiveness, autism, sensory processing disorder, central auditory processing disorder, high levels of stress, anxiety diisorders, and/or noise sensitivity (kiddos who are hypersensitive to sound). Excellent for classrooms, travel, school lunchroom, parties and family gatherings, concerts, and more. Use with adult supervision. In black.

PRE BOX Sports Sensory Box- 1 Month Subscription
This is a 1-month subscription to receive only the Sports Themed Sensory Box. This sensory box includes play floam, balls, headphones, turf, concession stand food, pitch counter, penalty flag, and more. You will receive our Sports PRE Story, visual supports, and a ways to play parent handout. This box has everything you need to make sporting events more enjoyable for everyone! 
Our sensory boxes are designed to help everyone!

Snug Kids Earmuffs/Hearing Protectors – Adjustable Headband Ear Defenders for Children and Adults
Little ears need protection from the high frequency and loud noises that come with crowds, sporting events, fireworks, monster trucks, or even everyday household items like a lawn mower, edger, or vacuum cleaner. Snug ear muffs muffle any intense sound around.
Unlike some ear muffs that don't rotate or adjust, Snug ear muffs hug little ears with a soft padded headband and a skin-friendly breathable plush ear pad. These ear defenders give all-day comfort without feeling squeezed. Fits on a wide range of ages, may fit on some adults.

Flare Audio® Calmer® Kids (Blue)- A Small in Ear Device to Reduce Stress, for Sensitive Hearing, Autism, Asperger Syndrome, hyperacusis, Misophonia, Noise Related Stress and Other Hearing Conditions
A small and discreet device worn in the ear to reduce stress for children. Calmer Kids comes in three fun colours and features a unique technology that reduces stressful frequencies without muffling sound. Calming their environment in a subtle, but potentially life-changing way. Calmer Kids is made from a safe, non-toxic, soft and durable silicone which comes in three colours. Its discreet design means children can wear Calmer Kids without feeling self-conscious about having them in their ears. Most people won’t even notice they have them in! Calmer Kids accurately guides sound into our ears resulting in less distortion for a cleaner, more defined and pleasant audio experience.








BunMo Pop Tubes Sensory Toys - 12pk - Fine Motor Skills Toddler Toys - Fidget Toys for Sensory Kids and Learning Toys
Poppin’ Pipes are fun and functional sensory toys that pop, stretch, and connect making these pop tubes the go-to toy for playtime.
These stretch toys are made for all busy little fingers but are also exciting toys for special needs children. Special needs toys like these sensory tubes provide tactile stimulation, fine motor skills and auditory feedback.
Tired of finding a tube toy hiding under the couch? The BunMo Poppin’ Pipes sensory toy kit comes with a bright fun storage box to make clean up time a breeze!
Shake & Rattle Rainmaker Hape Toys is one of the world's largest producers of toys made from sustainable materials. Hape is guided by the philosophy that the future belongs to our children and creates toys that inspire play, learning and exploration of the world we live in. All of the products meet the strictest international standards for quality and safety. Hape Toys represents the next generation of play.Gross Motor Skills
Hand-Eye Coordination
Visual Sensory Development
Auditory Sensory Development

A soothing rain stick-like sound



New Montessori Sensorial Auditory Material - Sound Cylinders Sound Boxes Kids Educational Toys for Toddler
The cylinders are graded from very soft to loud and each cylinder has either a red or a blue top and is contained in a wooden box with a matching red or blue lid.
One blue box and one red box
Each box contains a set of six cylinders that make a distinctive sound when shaken
Purpose is to refine auditory sense



Olfactory Sensory Tools  (what you smell) 


Sensory Diet Olfactory Activities
- play with scented play dough 
- scratch and sniff scented stickers
- wear essential oil diffuser necklace
- make sensory scented bottles
- chew scented bubble gum
- play with scented fidget toys
- guess the scent game
- play with scented rice sensory bin
- write with scented pens
- blow scented bubbles
- bake and cook
- use scented sensory paints
- use scented markers


Massaging with scented lotions, using scented sensory jars, scented lip balm, scented bubbles, using calming essential oils or playing with scented play dough are all really good olfactory sensory tools when you're out running errands or attending appointments with your child. 


Crazy Aaron's SCENTsory Scented Thinking Putty, Wildtiki, 2.75" Tin - Tropical Watermelon Scented Green Putty - Fluffy Texture, Never Dries Out
Take a walk on the wild side with the bright colors and lush, tropical scent of Crazy Aaron’s new SCENTsory Wildtiki Putty!
Wildtiki green scented putty smells like juicy tropical watermelon!
Stretchable, sculptable, soft and fluffy SCENTsory Putty never dries out!
Made in the USA! Crazy Aaron's Thinking Putty is manufactured with the help of exceptional individuals challenged with disabilities.

Clary Sage + Cypress Essential Oil FOCUS Rollerball Blend Apply FOCUS Rollerball Blend - part of the Star Essence Line of products - to your pulse points before heading out the door in the morning. Stay alert and sharp during that big meeting or to help you power through and get your projects completed. Safe and developed for children. FOCUS Rollerball blend will provide a sense of relaxation combined with the ability to maintain concentration. Use before a test or a big assignment to help your student stay balanced.  

Pinch Me Therapy Dough Zen
Allow a feeling of calm to wash over you and evoke your senses using Zen.  This soft arboreous powdery scent is sure to transport you to a place of inner tranquility.
Our sense of smell originates in the same part of the brain that is responsible for storing emotional memories, so, unlike colors, scents evoke a personalized response. When we like a scent, we unconsciously take a full, deep breath, which is relaxing; we want to experience as much of the positive feeling as we can. 

Star Essence Relax Bubbles PLAYFUL + RELAXING
Bubbles with benefits! Your child can enjoy the sensory activity of blowing and chasing bubbles while delighting in the aromatherapy advantages of the Relax essential oil blend.
The curated combination of oils promote relaxation and have a calming effect.
Safe for children 2 years and older.
Available in a 4 oz plastic container with a bubble wand.

Star Essence FOCUS Sensory Stars FIDGET + SELF REGULATION TOOL
The FOCUS Sensory Star is a plush and fun equivalent to a stress ball or a fidget. This sensory tool is a wonderful method of self-regulation to help with:
Focus, Attention, Creating Calmness and Active listening. Focus Sensory Stars are intended to promote movement and tactile input that is critical for some student’s learning. We do not recommend to choose this sensory tool for a child who is showing signs of significant distress. Instead use the sensory stars proactively to promote well-being and comfort.










Play-Doh Scents 3 Pack of Snack Scented Modeling Compound for Kids 3 Years & Up, 4 Oz Cans, Non-Toxic
Get a whiff of this - with 3 fun scented Play-Doh smells in each pack and 4 ounces in each can, kids 3 years and up can make colorful Play-Doh creations that are fun to look at and smell good, too!
Silly snack-tastic smells - get ready for an amazing sensory experience with squishy Play-Doh compound that smells like popcorn, cookies, and cupcakes. Each scent has double colors in each can!
The Play-Doh fun families love - this Play-Doh scents 3-pack comes from the makers of Play-Doh Modeling compound, a trusted arts and crafts brand For over 60 years.

Edens Garden Focus, Focus, Focus "OK for Kids" Essential Oil Synergy Blend, 100% Pure Therapeutic Grade (Undiluted Natural/ Homeopathic Aromatherapy Scented Essential Oil Blends) 10 ml Roll-On
Focus, Focus, Focus acts as a pencil sharpener for the brain. Its uplifting, citrus-tinged aroma steers your mind back on track.
Focus, Focus, Focus is specially formulated to boost concentration and spur progress. Lasso your wandering mind with this blend of Grapefruit, Lavender, Pink Pepper, Lime, Cedarwood, Sweet Orange, East Indian Sandalwood, Spearmint, Geranium, Osmanthus and Vanilla CO2. Part of our OK For Kids line, this roll-on makes a great homework companion for your child. Simply apply it to their wrists to encourage better study habits.



Crayola Silly Putty Silly Scents 6Count Egg Pack, Scented Putty, Gift for Kids
This silly Putty egg set is great for group gifting, with 6 individual eggs with scented putty inside.
The possibilities are endless with silly Putty toys. Stretch it, snap it, sculpt it, and more.
Collect all 6 scented putty toys in one set featuring chocolate, banana, Blueberry, watermelon, Apple, and grape.
Ideal for adults and kids, ages 4 & up.



Gustation Sensory Tools (what you taste/chew)  


Gustatory Sensory Diet Activities
- vibrating toothbrush
- blowing bubbles
- whistling
- drinking through a straw
- blowing through musical instruments
- eating crunchy snacks
- blowing up balloons
- exploring food temperatures, tastes and textures
- chewing gum
- exploring edible sensory bins
- chewing sensory chew necklace 
- chewing sour candy
- blowing a pinwheel


Bringing along a crunchy snack for your child, chewelry, sugar free gum or some sour candy are always great choices for gustation sensory tools when a busy sensory parent is on the go and their child needs to fill their sensory diet. Here are some more gustation sensory ideas. 


This adorable Munchables Cat Chewelry is so cute I want to wear it all the time! My daughter is a huge cat lover so this one was designed at her request! Do you or your child love cats as much as her?
This chew necklace features a textured background in the shape of a cat's face for added sensory interest.
Munchables come with a 90 day money-back chew guarantee. 
Munchables sensory chew necklaces, bracelets, zipper pulls, and pencils toppers offer a stylish solution for chewed shirts, pencils and fingers. We’ve poured our hearts into creating the highest-quality, most stylish chewable jewelry available. 

Pencil Toppers - 3 Pack (Chewy) Chew and Fidget While You Work
In search of a pencil topper that served as more than just an added weight, Fun and Function founder Aviva Weiss decided to design her own, and these Chewy Pencil Toppers were born. These Chewy Pencil Toppers provide multiple therapeutic benefits by serving as a chewy, a finger fidget and a source of proprioceptive input. Simply put, this pencil topper provides multiple types of sensory input so that you can calm down and relax no matter what type of stimulation you need. Fits No. 2 pencil. For light chewers. Non-returnable.
Provides a chewing and fidgeting outlet during writing activities
Texture supports oral motor and tactile exploration




Therapy Shoppe Vibrazilla Vibrating Oral Tool
You’ll LOVE this versatile new vibrating oral motor tool that’s ideal for professional or home use.  Vibrazillas feature an easy-to-grip chunky handle, 6 therapeutic speeds, and a 3-1/2” duo-texture chewy tip that is both soft AND extra tough.  Vibra Zilla is an amazing sensory tool for self-regulating oral input, oral desensitization, and for addressing other oral motor facial challenges for oral sensory seekers or those who have oral defensiveness (hypersensitivity to food textures, have difficult tolerating tooth brushing, or other oral input challenges.  Comes with an “AA” battery and 3 silicone ID tags.  An Accessory Kit is sold separately and includes 2 Zilla XT Chewy Tips.  Requires adult supervision.

Fubbles Bubbles No-Spill Bubble Tumbler | Bubble Toy for Babies Toddlers and Kids | Includes 6oz Bubble Solution and Bubble Wand (Tumbler Colors May Vary)
These Fubbles no-spill bubbles for kids will provide hours of fun and safe play
The No-Spill design allows for all the bubble fun without any of the mess. It works like magic and really is No Spill! Finally a bubble toy you can play with both outside and inside activties.
3 no-spill bubble tumbler minis in assorted colors. Each tumbler is individual shrink wrapped and includes 2oz of non toxic bubble solution per tumbler and they are easy to refill.







Proprioception Sensory Tools (body awareness)


Sensory Diet Proprioceptive Activities
- rough and tumble play or play wrestling
- tug of war with rope or fabric
- crawling through tunnels and boxes
- pulling or pushing a cart or wagon
- catching and throwing a weighted ball
- wheelbarrow walking
- scooter board activities
- squishing between pillows
- squeezing stress balls
- joint compressions 
- exercise (push ups, yoga, sit ups)
- rolling out play dough 
- hanging from trapeze
- pulling apart resistant toys or objects
- gross motor activities
(obstacle courses or stretching)


Throwing a heavy ball back and forth with your child, wearing a weighted vest, sitting on a textured wobble cushion, taking out some play dough, or creating a obstacle course for your child to complete while you are out are great choices for proprioceptive activities while you are away from home for your child's sensory diet. Here are some more proprioception sensory ideas for your child's sensory kit. 


Kozie Clothes Colorful Plain and Simple Kozie Compression Short Sleeve Shirt 
Kid’s Therapeutic Compression Inner or Outer Garment for Deep Calming Pressure
Our stylish and fun unisex compression top is made of comfy 4-way stretch fabric which allows the child to work or play creatively and actively. Our sensory compression top can be worn as an outer or inner garment while providing deep pressure calming and organizing sensory input. Relevant styling is the key to our non-stigmatizing apparel.  These popular shirts are designed to hug the shoulders, body trunk, and hips.  Evidence suggests that weight and pressure inputs provide both tactile and proprioceptive input to the body, calming the central nervous system as well as providing postural support and input to weak, floppy, or low tone (hypotonia) musculature.  




Keep Your Cool With Fun and Function’s Calming Compression Vest. ​
Let your child breathe easy with this comfortable, Fun and Function Mesh Pressure Vest. Giving the same great “hug” as our Weighted Compression Vest but without the added weight, this deep pressure vest helps to filter information and process an overload of sensory information. Simply adjust the hook and loop closures to apply firm pressure across the shoulders and trunk, and your child can experience calming benefits for a sensory diet. Ideal for children with autism or sensory integration challenges, this vest can be worn in school, at home, in the clinic or on the road. 

Trideer Inflated Stability Wobble Cushion with Pump(Multiple Colors)
Used as a WIGGLE SEAT to provide SENSORY INPUT, effectively help CHILDREN STAY FOCUS and SIT STILL, especially suitable for kids with ADHD or ASD as it helps to absorb their energy and therefore allows them to sit still for longer and stay concentrated better

PERFECT FOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL & HOME & OFFICE: 34cm Wobble Cushion Diameter -34cm/13.4inch , Height-7cm/2.8inch, The maximum weight limit is 450 lb.

Puffer Ball - 8 inch, Two Tone
Giant puffer ball has soft rubber spikes and a super-squeezable texture. When you squeeze these puffer balls, an air bubble emerges Fidgets are a self-regulation tool used with children who have a difficult time sitting still or focusing. Fidgets help promote focus and concentration, and keep the body (fingers) busy so they can still sit and focus! Fidget toys are also great for strengthening hand muscles and building fine motor and finger dexterity.



Vestibular Sensory Tools (where you are in space) 


Sensory Diet Vestibular Activities
- swinging in a hammock 
- jumping on crash pad or trampoline
- bouncing on a yoga ball or teeter totter
- rolling up in a blanket
- spinning in a chair or sit n spin toy
- rocking on a rocking horse
- hanging upside down off couch, from monkey bars or from trapeze bars
- playing on toys with wheels
(roller blades, wagons, trikes or scooters)
- playground on playground equipment (slides, teeter totter, merry-go-round)
- playing gross motor games
(soccer, basketball, tag or hopscotch


If you are out and have time, stop by the playground to swing on the swing, hang from the monkey bars or ride on a bike or scooter. These are great vestibular activities. A game of tag can fill your child's sensory diet and vestibular sensory needs when you are on the go. Here are a few more ideas. 




3 Shapes Hedgehog Balance Pods and Balance Disc, Rocky and Geometric Stability, Core Strength, Coordination, Massage for Adults, Obstacle Course for Kids 
Improve dynamic balance, body awareness & coordination. Designed to massage sore feet, reflexology, fallen arches, plantar fasciitis, bunions & hammertoes
Ideal dimension fits almost all feet sizes, suitable for men, women to practice on. Great to use with socks or with shoes on
Pebble textured surface to massage & help increase blood flow while smooth flat bottom provides stability. Hand pump included for instant inflation

hand2mind Green Indoor Scooter Board with Handles, Gym Scooters for Kids, Recess Toys, PE Equipment for Elementary School, Kids Indoor Play Equipment, Floor Scooter, Kids Sports Activities
Work on coordination and building motor skills, all while having fun with this scooter board for kids.
Plastic handles keep hands away from rolling wheels, while the hard plastic design is durable and bright.
The plastic wheels won’t damage floors, making this a great floor scooter to add to your indoor gym for kids.
Perfect for gym class, blacktops, basements, or any hard floor surface.
Ideal for use in kids sports activities for ages 6-12, or between second and eighth grade.



Kids Rocking Seesaw Balance Board with 5 Wooden Balls Sensory Training Rocking Board Balance Training Equipment Children Indoor Outdoor Activity Toy
This seesaw balance board can be used as a sensory training equipment for kids. Balance training can not only enhance children’s concentration, but also exercise kids’ limb coordination. Let your kids win at the starting line!
Children won’t get injured, safe for children.
The seesaw board has concave-convex non-slip footprint design on its surface, increasing friction between children’s feet and board. Children won’t slip when standing on the balance board.














DISCLAIMER: I am not an Occupational Therapist. I am an adult who has Sensory Processing Disorder, a sensory parent and a Grandma. The information on this website is not medical advice and does not replace the information that your child's therapists gives you. These are just ideas and information that I have learned myself over the years of being a parent and an adult living with SPD. If you are concerned for your child, please always seek medical attention through a family doctor, pediatrician or therapist. This website is for suggestions and informational purposes only. Each child is different and what works for one child may not for another because all children have different needs. Please always consult with a professional.

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