Visual

Visuals can be super helpful for quiet and quick calming sensory input, but consider the needs of who you're working with: do they like lots of bright colors and lights? Do they like to watch spinning objects? Lots of movement? Look no further.

Visual input ideas for people with high sensory needs:

Videos with lots of movement and color
- Here's a link with some examples (YT Kids won't let you make playlists, unfortunately!)
- Visual timers or sensory bottles--easy to DIY!
- Lighting
  - Color-changing lights
  - Toys that light up
  - Christmas lights or other string lights
- Drawing pads
- Lava or glitter lamps
- Artificial fish tanks
- Bubble tubes
- Fiber optic lights
- Liquid sensory tiles
- Nightlights
- Projectors

For people with extra safety considerations:
- Suction cups work for high chairs, wheelchair trays, desks, and tables. Lots of "highchair toys" are perfect for this reason.
- Don't be afraid to use products meant for other age groups--this is not saying your autistic or high-sensory friend (or yourself!) is a baby, sometimes products are used outside their age ranges to meet people's needs.
- Consider their independence level--safety is paramount. Do they throw things? Mouth them? I have put together sensory-friendly and safe recommendations for people with all sorts of needs. :)

Games and activities for visual input:

I Spy
Sorting beads or shapes
Memory card games
Playing with light and shadow
Matching games and toys

Here are some suggestions for people with visual sensory aversions:

Blackout curtains
Eye masks
"Sleep" headphones (headband headphones)
The Headache Hat
Sunglasses

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