Sensory
LINKS
Weighted toys and blankets (see above) are useful tools to facilitate deep touch with students. Studies of children with Autism indicate some of the benefits of using weighted blankets and toys include, increased sense of security, improved body awareness, reduced anxiety and improved sleep. Can be used as a calming method when agitated, or to increase participation in other activities in the classroom.
Using Deep Pressure Techniques
["Calming Shoulder Pad," teaching.com.au]
["Calming Shoulder Pad," teaching.com.au]
Deep pressure is often described as the sensation individuals experiences when they are hugged, squeezed, or held. This hugging sensation activates touch receptors (tactile system) and proprioceptors (proprioceptive system) in the body, which calms and modulates the central nervous system. This, in turn, aids a student's ability to process sensory information. Studies have also linked these sensations to the release of oxytocin and dopamine. These 'pleasure' hormones activate the parasympathetic system ('rest and digest') and result in calming physiological changes in the body, including decreased heart rate and decreased blood pressure.
Calming Sensory Room Equipment
There are many ways to use the equipment in the sensory room to facilitate deep pressure.
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Crashmat Pancake
Squash the student between two crashmats, creating a deep pressure pancake. Use your body weight to increase pressure as needed depending on the student.
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Recipe for a Squeeze
Primary Focus: Tactile, Proprioceptive, Body
Awareness. Tends to be calming.
Choose a food the student enjoys and tell them you have a recipe for making that. Have the student lay on something soft (crash mat, activity mat, blanket etc.) while you construct the food item by layering different ingredients on the student. As you add each ingredient give the student a few squeezes, pushes, focusing on weight-bearing joints (shoulders/hips). If desired, add 'condiments' by massaging the student's arm (in the direction of hair growth)
(Adapted from Kurtz, 2014)
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Floor Mat Sausage Roll
Roll the student up in a floor mat, creating a deep pressure sausage roll. You can add extra 'toppings' by pushing on parts of the mat once the student is rolled up, or hitting the mat with a pillow.
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Sensory steamroller
By crawling through, and being flattened by the steamroller, a student receives desired deep pressure input. Can be easily integrated into an obstacle course.
Images on how to use Sensory Steamroller
Deep Pressure Pancake
