The holidays are around the corner, and our therapists at Therapy Innovations have put together a comprehensive holiday gift guide for parents this holiday season. Our therapists have curated a list of therapists approved developmental toys and activities.
We have eight sensory systems in our body; the visual system, auditory system (hearing), olfactory system (smell), gustatory system (taste), tactile system (touch), vestibular system (head in space), proprioceptive systems (sensations from joints and muscles) and interoception (sensations of internal organs). Children may process the information from each system differently. This means a child may demonstrate sensory seeking behavior for tactile input (touch), and also sensory avoiding behavior for vestibular input (rotational movements). For the purpose of this gift guide, we have divided the gift suggestions in to two categories, Sensory Seekers and Sensory Avoiders. It is not uncommon for your child to display behaviors of both sensory seeker and sensory avoider.
The following are suggestions for toys for Sensory Seekers and Sensory Avoiders. Sensory preferences are unique, and may present in many different ways. Please consult your occupational therapist for a comprehensive sensory profile of your child and to receive personalized treatment and care.
Sensory Seekers
Sensory seekers require a greater than average amount of sensory input to calm their nervous system. They have a higher threshold for sensory input. This means the amount of sensory input they need to feel satisfied is higher than average. Children with sensory seeking behavior may prefer movement activities such as climbing, jumping and running. They may appear adventurous and fearless. Children with sensory seeking behaviors may enjoy messy play such as playing in shaving cream, water and/or sand. The following toys are our favorite recommendations for Sensory Seekers.
Sit N Spin
The Sit N’ Spin provides excellent input for the vestibular system as the child spins around. The child is able to control the rotation speed as well, giving full control over the sensation. This is a great toy to help develop shoulder girdle muscles as well as core strength.
Mini trampoline
Trampolines provide firm proprioceptive input starting at the soles of the child’s feet going all the way to the top of their head. The rhythmic up and down jumping can also provide a calming effect to their nervous system.
Huggable Plush Massager
Hugs may arguably be one of the best forms of proprioceptive input. Firm pressure in the form of a hug provides deep proprioceptive input to our joints, creating a feeling of calm. This huggable plush massager additionally includes a vibrating massager in the animal’s belly, providing additional sensory input.
Kinetic Sand
Kinetic sand is perfect for children that seek tactile input, that is they are always touching and exploring with their hands. The smooth, cool sand stays together like playdoh, while feeling like sand. Children can build, squeeze and play in the sand with their hands without sand getting all over the house.
Sensory Sock
Want to provide your child with all the sensory input provided to them while climbing on the playground, but from the comfort of your home? This sensory sock gives resistance to their movements, providing immediate deep pressure feedback to their joints. This sends the body similar sensations to climbing and jumping. This is one of our occupational therapists’ favorite! You may or may not find our therapists relaxing inside the sensory socks in between sessions.
Sensory Avoiders
Hammock Pod Swing
This hammock swing is ideal for children who are overstimulated by visual input, because of its cocoon structure blocking out most of the visual environment. Gentle swinging in a pod swing or similar swing can create feelings of safety. Linear, rhythmic movement simulates the womb and sends messages of calm and safety to our nervous system.
Noise Canceling Headphones
Noise canceling headphones are an excellent way to decrease the amount of sensory input and to help calm an overwhelmed child. Children who display auditory avoiding behaviors such as clasping their hands over their ears, running or hiding during loud events or disliking loud movies and music may benefit from noise canceling headphones.
LCD Ceiling Projector
Children with sensory avoiding behaviors may be overwhelmed with bright lights. This LED ceiling projector can provide calming, predictable visual input in the form of stars and planets on the ceiling. We like how it can make a dark space in to an escape.
Pop Up Tent
Provide a safe, calm space for your child to decompress in with a pop up tent or fort. Throw in a few pillows and blankets to make it nice and cozy.
All of the above opinions are our own, none of the links are affiliate. The above information should not be used in place of medical advice. Please consult with a licensed occupational therapist if you have concerns regarding your child’s sensory processing.