In this day and age we plan everything to the last detail…We have to know what we’re doing, when we’re doing it, and how we’re doing it. We organize, compartmentalize, and prioritize to get things done in the most efficient way possible….We’re in control and things will just work better when we’re all on top of things….which is true for the most part… but somethings are just not in our control…not really anyway…Like will our kid wake up on the left side of the bed, tired and grumpy and be all sloth-like in their morning routine while we anxiously wait to rush out the door.  Or how much math homework the teacher will give- not up to us…

But some things are in our control…and can be planned out in advance….Take a look at the following sensory ideas to do with your kids. They’re listed from short-on time to I’ll live forever… Keep them in mind when planning your schedule and see what works best for you.

Hold child from legs- can’t do this activity too long anyway because that would have an adverse effect. But inverting the head for a few second is a great, both calming and focusing sensory input which can have an immediate effect on your child’s behavior.

Carry shopping bags- save time and let your kids carry some bags for you for deep pressure input.

Strong flavors- sometimes when you’re in a pickle and you don’t have enough time to deal with your kid’s lack of modulated behavior… eat a pickle! Pickles actually provide many oral sensory benefits and have nutritional value as well!

Ride on a see-saw- if you found the time to take your kids to the park don’t forget to stop by the spring see-saw for a few- minutes of fun and invigorating input.

Body Massage and Joint Compressions- the more time you have for this the better…

It’s a great way to bond with your child as well as provide calming sensory input. So it’s a good idea to do it right before bed-time…

Malky Shapira, Pediatric Occupational Therapist Mother of two terrific toddlers.