Our bodies’ senses are constantly giving us information about how things feel, smell, and sound. Some people might be oversensitive to this input, making it hard to tolerate certain experiences. Other people may be under sensitive, which may cause them to seek out additional sensations. Sensory tools can help us balance these needs.
What kinds of sensory tools are there?
Touch
Touch (tactile) sensory tools include playdough, therapy putty, kinetic sand, soft surgical brushes, bubble wrap, soft sensory-friendly clothing (seamless, tagless, etc.)
Body Awareness
Body Awareness (Proprioceptive) sensory tools include trampolines, dynamic seat cushions, jump rope, hula hoops, scooter boards, swings, body socks, therapy balls, weighted blankets and lap pads, compression vests, and clothing, Under Armour or snug-fitting clothing. Ask your occupational therapist about wearing schedules and weighted percentages for weighted items.
Hearing
Hearing (Auditory) sensory tools include noise-canceling headphones, white noise machines, earplugs
Mouth
Mouth (Oral Motor) sensory tools include Chewelry (chewable wearable jewelry), electric toothbrushes, ARK Z-Vibe Oral Stimulator
Vision
Visual sensory tools include ooze tubes, liquid motion toys, light projectors, bubble tubes, fiber optic lights, sunglasses
Smell
Smell (Olfactory) sensory tools include scented dough, scented markers, air deodorizer
Balance and Motion
Balance and Motion (Vestibular) sensory tools include spin discs, swings, trampoline