Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support

Sensory Processing Disorder & Wobble Cushion Benefits

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

Sensory Processing Disorder & Wobble Cushion Benefits

Jeanette Loftus

Wobble cushions, also known as balance discs or wiggle seats have become a very common and helpful sensory tool used for at school and at home. They are highly recommended by occupational therapists and teachers because they are beneficial for children and adults who struggle with sensory processing disorder and ADHD.

If you are planning to purchase a wobble cushion for your child there are several things you will want to consider. Check the size and shape of the wobble cushion to ensure the cushion is the right size for your child. Finding the right size is important to provide enough support for your child, There are also several different shapes to consider too.

You want a wobble cushion that is durable for your child that will last. A wobble cushion that is inflatable is better as you can adjust inflation to customize it for your child's needs. Children have different preferences too because some prefer a firmer cushion that is more stable but other children may prefer a softer cushion.

There are wobble cushions that have textured surfaces and they provide additional sensory input which may be more beneficial for children who seek tactile stimulation. If your child will be using their sensory wobble cushion in more than one place, you will want to purchase one that is easy to carry around with them.

Sensory wobble cushions are designed to stimulate a child's senses including their sense of touch, balance, and proprioception. These cushions often have a bumpy or soft, squishy surface that provides the child with extra tactile sensory input. Some of the wobble cushions have vibrations which can be calming for a child.

There are so many benefits for children who use wobble cushions. Children who have sensory processing differences use wobble cushions because they provide movement, encourage proprioceptive and vestibular input, self-regulation, body awareness and help them stay calm.

Many children, including those children who have ADHD find it difficult to focus during tasks. Wobble cushions provide subtle movement while still participating in activities like reading at school or their homework.

Wobble cushions require a child to use their core muscles for balance. This can lead to a child having better posture, improved stability and overall body strength. While a child is sitting on a wobble cushion, they practice coordination and balance which helps develop gross motor skills.

Wobble cushions are an active seating option for children who struggle to sit still. Most seating for children at school can cause them to be tired and not focused to work but active seating encourages movement and helps a child release access energy they may have. This is very beneficial for children who need movement to stay engaged.