Children need to be trained to develop healthy habits from a young age. There are four simple but effective routines that will help your kids calm their minds and learn how to manage the day effectively.
Kids are growing up way too fast, and their brains aren’t taking the time to really grow. If you’re like me, then you’ve probably had days where your child just doesn’t seem “right,” or is struggling with anxiety, fear of change, lack of self-confidence or any number of other issues that can limit a child’s ability to function in today’s society.
The “sensory strategies for the classroom pdf” is a guide that can help teachers to organize their classrooms and implement sensory activities.
From breakfast through night, try these 4 basic sensory routines that use simple sensory diet exercises to relax, concentrate, and organize youngsters.
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Sensory exercises and tools may be an effective method to help children relax, pay attention, and work through problems. And, depending on when your kid is experiencing issues, they might be used at various times of the day.
The sensory exercises will differ from one kid to the next, as well as from one day to the next.
However, some children may appreciate having a scheduled sensory pattern to help them get up in the morning, transition from school to home, or prepare for bed.
You can hone in on sensory activities that may help your child once you understand their sensory issues or needs.
Is a Sensory Diet the Same as a Sensory Routine?
Occupational therapists like myself utilize this method all the time, however it’s usually referred to as a sensory diet. A sensory diet is providing your kid with a “diet” of sensory activities as needed, just like you would with food.
However, I’ve stopped using the phrase since the word “diet” has so many layers of implications, many of which are bad.
For example, I never want you to believe that a sensory diet is set in stone or that it must be followed regardless of how your kid is reacting. Unfortunately, “sensory diet” has come to mean those things, although that was never the intention.
Let’s consider of these customized sensory activities you’re giving for your kid as a sensory routine for the sake of this article!
For Whom Are These Sensory Routines Beneficial?
The examples that follow are geared for school-aged children. Sensory routines, on the other hand, are very useful for toddlers and preschoolers who suffer from sensory issues. Sensory routines may be beneficial to newborns as well!
Don’t forget about teenagers and even grownups. Transitioning to various settings and activities may be made easier using sensory routines.
If you need assistance figuring out which sensory routines to use depending on your child’s age, let us know in the comments below.
Example of a Morning Sensory Routine
There are several sensory activities that may be used with any of these routines. The idea is to consider what obstacles your kid is encountering and to engage them in activities that address those issues.
This is an example of a morning sensory routine for a youngster who has trouble waking up. They’re irritable. After waking up, I cried and whined for an hour or two.
I’d recommend the following as a sensory routine:
1. Slowly wake up with a dimly lit light — If your kid has to get up at a set time, this may indicate they need to get up a bit earlier. A softer light that isn’t as strong or jarring to the sensory system may help them acclimatize.
2. Rock in a rocking chair with a weighted lap pad – After your kid has awakened a little, grab them up and hold them in your lap with a weighted lap pad or their favorite stuffed animal. The lap pad and your hands provide a lot of relaxing proprioceptive input, while the rocking provides calming vestibular input.
If your kid is old enough, you can also let them rock themselves. Alternatively, some children may be upset by the weighted lap pad or rocking; if this is the case, eliminate either!
3. Pack your book bag, take out the trash, and empty the dishes — all of these actions are utilitarian and give calming heavy labor input, which stimulates the proprioceptive sense!
4. Prepare your headphones, sunglasses, and other equipment for the day – I like asking youngsters what they will need today. This allows them to take a breather and become more aware of their own needs. It also makes children feel more proactive and encourages sensory self-regulation.
I’m especially fascinated by how children, even at a young age, can instinctively answer this issue. As long as the thing they offer is suitable, have them put it in their luggage as a support.
If your youngster is stumped, you might mention a few obstacles they are likely to face. Whether the lights annoy them often, for example, you might ask if they want their sunglasses or cap, given that their use has been discussed with the instructor!
See more Example of a Morning Sensory Routines!
Example of a School Sensory Routine
Here’s where you can save it to Pinterest to keep it handy!
If your kid has trouble concentrating at school, sitting still, socializing, or following instructions due to sensory issues, a school sensory regimen might help them greatly. In this example, I’ll show you how to regulate and educate your youngster sensory methods.
However, if your child’s sensory concerns are interfering with his or her ability to study at school, I urge speaking with the teacher. Teachers may include sensory exercises that benefit everyone into the classroom in a variety of ways.
More information may be found in 13 Simple Sensory Strategies for the Classroom.
The following items may be included in your school’s sensory routine:
1. Squishy fidget in pocket — Squeezing a little squishy fidget in your child’s pocket may help reduce overload, anxiety, and provide a fast remedy for youngsters who need to move. Proprioceptive feedback is also provided by squeezing.
2. Drinking from a chewy spout water bottle – I enjoy Camelback type water bottles with the chewy spout on the top. To drink from it, a youngster must bite it, and he or she may give it a few additional bites during the day. This is fantastic for those who like their senses.
3. Put on a compression shirt or trousers – Compression gear is popular right now, and putting it on your child might make them feel more tight, grounded, and comfortable. Another proprioceptive technique, this one is the sensory system’s powerhouse!
4. Take a restroom break to stretch legs – If your kid has trouble sitting still, teach them to take frequent toilet breaks. However, you must ensure that they do not overuse this. Tell them to stretch a bit as they go and to shake off all their wiggles before returning to their seats!
After-Example of a School Sensory Routine
Some children with sensory difficulties or sensory processing disorder work really hard all day at school to maintain their composure, only to lose it when they come home. Others are irritated after a day of being inundated with feelings or unable to move as much as they need to.
Using a sensory regimen to help children move back to their home may be life-saving!
This is what your after-school routine may look like:
1. Bike from the bus stop to your house — Walking, jogging, skipping, scootering, and bicycling are all wonderful sensory exercises that may help to organize and regulate the sensory system. Is it possible to include one from the bus stop or school to your home?
2. Have a crunchy snack – When sensory seekers return home from school, strategically provide some crunchy items. Warm or cold items may appeal to children with various sorts of sensory requirements.
3. Perform 25 jumping jacks or yoga stretches. Alternatively, you may bounce on a yoga ball or ride a scooter board. What important is that your child gets up and moves about. You may also offer them sensory cards so they can choose what they want to do.
4. Read a book while using a weighted lap pad – Your youngster may benefit from some relaxation after some movement. It’s a terrific method to do it to look at or read a book with the added deep pressure from the weighted lap cushion!
Get four more examples of after-school routines.
Example of a Sensory Routine for Bedtime
Pin this example so you’ll know where to look for it when you need it.
Finally, it’s time for bed. If their kid has sensory challenges, this might be the most difficult portion of their day for many parents. They may have difficulty falling or staying asleep, and mom and dad are likely exhausted by this point.
Developing a basic sensory regimen may help a lot:
1. Jump on the bed for 10-20 minutes — It may sound counterintuitive, but sensory seekers need sensory stimulation. This is where they may express themselves.
2. Take a warm bath – A warm bath is an excellent way to start calming them down. Add some soothing music or a dab of lavender essential oil to the water to make it even more peaceful.
3. Brush teeth with a vibrating toothbrush — Vibration is a powerful sensory input, and giving youngsters another brief dose of it can help them find what they’re looking for. You may want to forgo vibration before bed if your kid is an avoider, at least when it comes to vibration or being near their lips. Here’s some advice for children who despise cleaning their teeth.
4. Read a book in a rocking chair – We’ll finish the day the same way we started it. That rocking rocker is an excellent tool for children to use to learn to relax their bodies. Holding them on your lap or close to your side while listening to a tale helps them concentrate and remain seated.
Sensory routines and activities don’t have to be complicated. Often, no specialized instruments or pricey sensory devices are required.
Creating a Sensory Routine of Your Own
Want to know how to focus your child’s sensory demands and make sure you’re providing them with the greatest activities at the right times throughout the day?
You’ve arrived just in time, because our first-ever free Thriving with Sensory 7-Day Challenge is about to begin. It’s jam-packed with material that you can use to create your own sensory schedule, plus you’ll get the opportunity to interact with other parents who are dealing with similar issues.
Of course, we’ll have free printables available as well!
Tomorrow is the first day! Grab a place before it’s too late!!
More Information on Sensory Diet
Which Sensory Diet Does Your Child Require the Most?
What Every Parent Should Know About the Link Between Autism and Sensory Issues
How to Set Up a Sensory Summer Routine for Your Child
Printable Sensory Diet Template
The “calming sensory activities before bed” are a great way to help kids wind down and sleep well. Here are four calming sensory activities for kids that will help them organize their day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you calm a child with sensory seeking?
A:
Asking the child what they like to do is a good place to start, and then you can see if its possible for them to be calm in those activities. If not, try other ideas such as taking their mind off of things through something fun or finding calming objects that remind them of home.
What is a sensory routine?
A: A sensory routine is a set of activities that are used to relieve stress. They include deep breathing, stretching, hydration and physical activity.
What is an example of sensory seeking?
A: An example of sensory seeking would be someone who walks up to the edge of a cliff and looks down, wanting nothing more than for something to happen.
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