Sensory Ideas

What is a sensory break?

A sensory break or “brain break” is a fancy word for just taking a regular old break from seated learning activities or sedentary activities. For children with sensory needs, this is often referred to as a sensory diet or sensory break. It is a time for them to gain the sensory input they need in their bodies to stay alert, on task, and focused.

Each of us has our own way in which we modulate or control our sensory systems. A person who is able to modulate well is someone who notices the sensory stimuli coming in, filters out unimportant information and their emotions and behaviors reflect appropriate responses to the situation or environment.

For children or adults with modulation disorders such as ADD/ADHD, Sensory processing disorder, or Autism etc. they have difficulty regulating the sensory input they are receiving. Which is why sensory breaks are SO important for them.

Why are sensory breaks important?

Sensory breaks are a way for any child, whether they have sensory needs or not, to reset, decompress, and get the blood flowing back into their brains. We all know that children learn best through movement and exploring with their hands. Giving them breaks throughout their day lets their brains take a rest and reset, but they are also still learning vital life skills in these sensory breaks.

We have frequent sensory breaks during our school day to help keep us regulated and prepare us to be ready for learning.  Here are some of the thigs we do at school.

• Jumping Jacks

• Jumping on a mini trampoline or large outdoor trampoline

• Heavy work activities

• Crawling through tunnels or under objects

• Wall or chair Pushes

• Animal Crawls (can you crawl like a bear? crab? frogs? seals?)

• Ball Pass (Stand back to back and pass a ball by turning to the side in one direction, than reverse)

• Ball Pits (make your own by filling up a small swimming pool with balls)

• Reading in a bean bag chair

• Biking

• Climbing trees or on a jungle gym

• Use fidget toys

• Chewing toys or tools such a Chewable Jewelry

• Crashing mat

• Play with a parachute

• Popcorn jumps (jumping from a squat position and then landing back in a squat position)

• Wheelbarrow walking

• Obstacle course

• Passing weighted balls back and forth

• Scooter board activities

• Resistance bands

• Bouncing on a therapy or exercise ball

• Listening to upbeat OR calming music

• Swinging

• Going outside for a walk or hike

• Jumping jacks

• Skipping

• Running

• Bean bag squeezes

• Drinking water through a water bottle with a Bite Valve

• Chewing gum (all natural chewing gum option)

• Using a weighted blanket or vest

• Lifting light weights

• Yoga moves

• Swimming

• Tummy Time

• Headphones to block out unnecessary noise

• Roller blade or skating

• Visit the playground