Remember the movie the “Coneheads” where they sleep standing up? Why? I’m not sure but it must have been a habit that worked for them and allowed them to sleep better. And for them sleeping standing up has become second nature….As for our kids the sooner we can start them on good sensory habits the better we can help them manage their sensory processing needs… Now I’m not saying go hang a bed on the wall… But the following are some  simple sensory habits we can adopt as we go out and about with our kids:

• Heavy Work- Ever complain that the door to your kid’s kindergarten is so heavy to open? Let them open it for you! It’s a great way to gain proprioceptive input.

• Oral- Going to a weekly piano lesson? Before you do give your child a piece of gum to chew.

• Olfactory (Smell)- Do your kids ever fall asleep while riding in the car? Sometimes that’s a blessed thing and sometimes it’s not. Create a habit of spraying a lemony or tangy scent when your goal is to arrive at your destination with alert as opposed to lethargic kids.

• Vestibular- Going to the supermarket? Take your kids along and make a habit of giving them a few quick spins in the shopping cart.

• Sight-Going on a walk with a kid with low registration? Play the game “I Spy” and point out interesting objects along the way.

• Deep Pressure- Going into your child’s bedroom to put them to sleep? Keep a bottle of lotion nearby and give them a massage.

• Auditory- Kids are playing in the playroom? Keep  lively music on in the background for the sensation seekers or some “white noise” for the sensation avoiders.

Malky Shapira,

Pediatric Occupational Therapist

Mother of two terrific toddlers