Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support

Sensory Diet Sensory Break Ideas For Children

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Sensory Diet Sensory Break Ideas For Children

Jeanette Loftus

Children who have Sensory Processing Disorder should have sensory breaks throughout the day to keep them regulated. They need to maintain their sensory diet regularly, even when they are not displaying the need for it. We should not wait until they are already dysregulated to accommodate their sensory needs.

Sensory breaks are an important part of a child's daily routines especially those who have sensory processing disorder.

These breaks allow children to regulate their sensory input and help them stay focused and engaged in activities throughout the day.

Sensory breaks are a part of a child's sensory diet that is carefully planned by your child's occupational therapist. They are a sensory schedule of activities that help children with sensory processing disorder.

Using a visual timer or visual schedule are helpful so that your child knows what the planned for their day, sensory breaks will be and for how long. Give your child warnings that the break is soon ending. Sensory breaks should accommodate your child's sensory needs. Consult an Occupational Therapist to plan a sensory diet for your child.

The duration and how often your child needs their sensory breaks can be different for each child. Some children may need short breaks more often but other children may only need a few longer breaks throughout the day. It is important to observe your child’s behavior and mood to determine the appropriate time for their sensory break.

It is important to understand what sensory breaks are and how often they should be included in your child’s daily routine. Sensory breaks are short periods of time typically lasting a few minutes during the day that your child engages in sensory activities that stimulate their senses.

Their sensory breaks can be both calming and energizing, depending on the level of arousal your child needs. They are designed to provide a sensory reset for the child, allowing them to better participate in activities.

The idea of a sensory diet was first introduced by occupational therapist Patricia Wilbarger in the late 1980's. A sensory diet is a set of sensory activities that can help children with sensory processing disorder regulate their responses to sensory input. It is like a balanced meal but for your child's body. A sensory diet provides a balance of sensory input that helps your child stay regulated throughout the day.

These activities provide a strong tactile input to the body, which can be calming for some children. Examples of deep pressure activities include weighted blankets, bear hugs, or squeezing a stress ball.
Physical activities such as jumping jacks, wall push-ups, or animal walks (crab walk, bear crawl, etc.) can provide much-needed movement breaks for children who struggle with sensory regulation.

Filling a small container with various textures, such as rice, beans, sand, or water beads, can be a great sensory break for children. They can run their hands through the materials, explore with different tools, or hide objects for a fun and engaging experience.

Playing soft and soothing music in the background can help children relax and focus during sensory breaks. Classical music, nature sounds, or white noise can all be beneficial.
Small handheld objects that provide sensory stimulation, such as stress balls, squishy toys, or textured objects, can be helpful for children during sensory breaks.

Sensory breaks should be for each child’s specific sensory needs and preferences. Parents should work closely with their child’s occupational therapist to create a sensory diet that works best for them. Sensory breaks should be included in a child’s daily schedule. These breaks can help children stay focused and regulate their emotions.