5 Sensory Input Techniques

A person with Sensory Processing Disorder and Autism feels EVERYTHING all at the same time. They either over react to situations, or they may under react. Sounds can cause a physical sensation that can either be calming or disorienting. Textures can either soothe or induce physical pain. Colors can physically energize or deplete them. 

They feel every emotion at once! They can easily become BIG mad or BIG sad. 

Do you have the resources to help your child cope with everyday challenges? 

My son usually shows the same signs of being over stimulated, and over time, we have learned how to navigate those feeling and help him feel safe and secure again. 

Typical signs of being over stimulated usually include self harm (hitting the head). Repetitive motions are an indication of their bodies being unable to compartmentalize the emotions they feel such as stemming by swaying back and forth, flapping their hands, shaking their head back and forth repetitively, biting, scratching, or seeking some sort of sensory input. Being over stimulated also looks like a meltdown. 

It’s so hard to navigate such BIG emotions all at once that their bodies instantly go into fight or flight mode. 

Over the last year we have learned some amazing techniques that are such a game changer when moments like above occur. 

Here are 5 of our TOP techniques we use daily. They are very beneficial if you suffer from anxiety, stress, or have Sensory Processing Disorder/Autism!

• Sensory brushing. There are so many benefits to this!  We use this technique 4 times a day or when otherwise needed. We start right when my little boy wakes up in the morning, and we end the day with sensory brushing as he falls asleep. Liam is sensitive to touch and gets easily overwhelmed, so this technique targets touch receptors and helps him organize his nervous system as he receives that deep pressure input. It instantly gives him a calming sensation, helps him focus and understand self-awareness and self-control over his emotional and physical needs. How to brush: A specific brush is required, which you can find on Amazon or at Walmart. You apply very firm pressure, which begins at the shoulders, down the arm and you work down toward the ankles and then you work your way back up to the arms and shoulders and down again. The stomach, chest, spine, and feet are avoided due to triggering the urge to vomit or urinate when applied over these areas.

• Deep touch pressure. This is very similar to sensory brushing. However, applying deep touch pressure triggers the Autonomic Nervous System (sometimes I feel like I should become a doctor after learning so much about the nervous system, haha) and the parasympathetic division. This activity releases Serotonin, Dopamine, and increases Endorphin levels. We specifically use this technique when Liam is having a meltdown (it can also be applied when the child is happy and still overstimulated in situations. It just works best for us with meltdowns). This helps him feel less anxious, overwhelmed, or scared. How to apply deep pressure: we either do firm holding or firm stroking where you start from the head, apply pressure all around and work your way all the way down to the feet. We also squeeze his whole body while hugging him to give that sense of security and calmness. 

• Sensory chew necklace. Liam craves oral stimulation through chewing, but it’s also a form of stemming for him. This is a great product to fulfill that need! Most kids who need that stimulation often bite fabric or their fingers, lick items, or show some type of mouthing behavior. It can happen at the most random times, so we wear this item all the time, and it has saved me so many bite marks ???????? 

• Weighted blanket. THIS IS A MUST HAVE! ???? My gosh! How this product has saved us from so many restless nights! A weighted blanket is another form of deep touch pressure. It can offer a calming effect, reduce anxiety, improve focus, and promote self-awareness. Deep touch pressure stimulation can help with mood and sleep, which is why it’s such a popular and well-known product! We use this throughout the day as well as take it with us when we have long car rides to therapy. It’s best used for nap time, bedtime, when cuddled up watching a movie, or when you’re on long car rides. 

• Weighted vest/compression vest. The deep pressure and weight helps him feel secured, calm, and grounded when overstimulated. It creates body awareness and helps him understand the signs of being over stimulated and what his body needs. A weighted vest is perfect for outings and when playing around the house. A weighted vest offers mobility rather than having to sit for a period of time to apply the other techniques.

Have you tried any of these? If so what have you had or not had success with?

Ashlee porter is a stay at home mom to a three year old little boy who was recently diagnosed with Autism. She has been married for 7 years. In her free time she loves connecting with other mamas, blogging and advocating for Autism/ Sensory Processing Disorder, and spending time with her family!