Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support

Proprioceptive Sensory Diet Solutions: Toys and Therapy Tools

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

Proprioceptive Sensory Diet Solutions: Toys and Therapy Tools

Jeanette Loftus

child who has sensory processing disorder climbing a climbing wall at occupational therapy Proprioceptive Sensory Diet Solutions: Toys and Therapy Tools

Sensory proprioceptive therapy is a form of sensory integration therapy that focuses on improving a child's sense of body awareness, heavy work, movement, and coordination. Children who struggle with sensory differences often have difficulty with proprioception, which is the ability to sense and understand the position and movement of one's body. This can impact their ability to regulate their movements, emotions, and responses to different sensory input.

There are a variety of tools and activities that can be used in Sensory proprioceptive therapy. These tools are specifically designed to provide a strong sensory input to the body, which can help regulate and organize a child's sensory system. Some commonly used tools include weighted blankets and vests, balance boards and swings.

Weighted blankets and vests are designed to provide deep pressure sensory input, which can have a calming effect on the body. These gentle weights can be worn or placed on the child's lap, shoulders, or back, and can help them feel more grounded and focused..

Balance boards and swings are also commonly used in sensory proprioceptive therapy as they provide a challenge to a child's balance and coordination skills. These tools can help strengthen their core muscles, improve their posture, and enhance their sense of body awareness. The use of sensory proprioception tools has been shown to have numerous benefits for children with sensory processing differences.

Improve body awareness and coordination: By providing strong sensory input to the body, these tools can help children develop a better sense of where their body is in space and how to control their movements.

Increase attention and focus: Children who struggle with sensory differences may have difficulty focusing and paying attention. By using these tools, they can improve their ability to concentrate and engage in tasks.
Reduce anxiety and meltdowns: The calming effect of weighted blankets and other sensory tools can help children regulate their emotions and decrease anxiety levels. This can lead to a reduction in sensory overload and meltdowns.

Enhance motor skills: By challenging a child's balance and coordination, these tools can help develop their gross and fine motor skills. This can be beneficial for children who struggle with certain physical tasks.

There are many different types of sensory proprioceptive available for children, and the right ones will vary depending on the child's specific needs and interests.

Body socks and tunnels: These provide a cozy, enclosed space that can help children feel more grounded and in control of their movements.

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)

Sensory chewelry are wearable chewable necklaces or bracelets that can help children who have a need to chew. They provide a sensory input to the mouth and can improve focus and self-regulation.

Therapy putty can be used to strengthen hand muscles and improve fine motor skills, and also provides a sensory input to the hands.

Trampolines and bouncing balls can provide a fun and stimulating way to improve balance, coordination, and body awareness.

Sensory fidgets are handheld tools that can help children who have a need for movement or tactile input to stay focused and calm.

Sensory proprioceptive tools can be beneficial for children with sensory processing differences. These tools provide a strong sensory input to the body, helping children regulate their movements and emotions. Including these tools into their daily routines, and sensory diets, children can improve their body awareness, coordination, and overall sensory processing, leading to improved functioning.