We all have different sensory needs and preferences, sensations we can or cannot tolerate, input that is calming or overwhelming. Children who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory processing disorder (SPD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as other neurodivergent children, can sometimes have difficulty interpreting and responding to their sensory experiences. This can result in an over-response to some sensations and an under-response to others. Sounds, textures, sights, tastes, and smells can have a powerful influence on kids. Incorporating activities that engage the senses and are a good fit for autistic children can help them better integrate sensory information and respond to the environment around them.
The role of senses in regulation
Sometimes “dysregulation” isn’t about emotions, but is actually the brain and body feeling overwhelmed (or underwhelmed) by internal and external sensory input.. This is especially relevant for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sensory Processing Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, or other neurodivergent children, who may interpret and process sensory information differently. For emotional regulation, check out this article on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy based activities that support children’s emotional regulation needs through thought, behavior and physiological coping skills.
A sensory-based approach can help your child explore the types of sensory input that are either calming/regulating or overwhelming/dysregulating for them. Use the following activities to get you started.
1. Explore Textures with Sensory Boxes and Playdough
Objects with highly stimulating tactile input, such as items that are squishy or rough, can facilitate sensory exploration and promote body awareness. Try creating a sensory box filled with items of varying textures such as water beads, sand, and beans.. Add small toys or “treasures” along with items like spoons or cups so that the child can dig, bury, and pour within the box. Some kids find using their sensory box as a coping tool can be helpful when they start to feel frustrated or upset.
2. “Heavy-Work” Activities
Children with sensory processing challenges may have a harder time with body awareness and controlling balance and movement. Heavy work includes multisensory activities that help kids deeply feel their muscles and bodies working, which can support sensory integration. Heavy-work activities include safely lifting heavy items, pushing or pulling, and generally anything that challenges the muscles. You can incorporate heavy work into your everyday routine through household chores and play time. These include having your child push the grocery cart in the store or taking a break to do some push-ups.
3. Musical Instruments
Music is highly stimulating to the senses and the mind. According to ADDitude, music can increase focus, promote calmness, and improve children’s ability to handle noisy environments. Kids can learn a traditional instrument, or they can create instruments out of household materials. Make a rain stick out of a cardboard tube filled with beads, or maracas using a plastic egg filled with rice. You can also collaborate with your child to create a playlist of their favorite tunes to sing, dance, or listen to.
4. Deep Pressure
Deep pressure activities promote feelings of calmness and safety for many children with autism spectrum disorder. These activities are particularly useful when a child is experiencing sensory overload. Things like a high five, a pat on the back, a shoulder squeeze, or a hug are some ways that your child can interact with others to get a deep pressure sensation. They can also give themselves deep pressure stimulation by pushing their hands into their thighs, crossing their hands over their chest and pushing down, or using a weighted blanket.
5. Games and Stories
Many neurodivergent children can have trouble with interoception, which is the ability to notice, interpret, and respond to sensory input. This skill of building sensory awareness, therefore, is something worth practicing. The Mightier Super Sensor Skill Pack uses stories, crafts, and small games to let caregivers and children build sensory awareness together through play. You can download these free printable activities here: Download Skill Pack..
Closing thoughts
It may take some trial and error before you find sensory stimulation activities and sensory play ideas that are a good fit for your child’s senses. Think about your child’s individual needs when planning an activity. Sensory seekers may want to dive right in. However, for kids who want to avoid certain sensory experiences, you can use these activities to gently introduce them to new textures and sensations while trying to avoid sensory overload. With the right support, your kid can learn tools and sensory activities that will help them manage their sensory processing concerns and thrive.
Mightier’s biofeedback games are clinically validated to help neurodivergent children, especially those diagnosed with autism, ADHD, and anxiety, build emotional regulation skills through play. Learn more at https://www.mightier.com.
