Sensory tool tips
Match Tools to Your Child's Needs
Sensory seekers may benefit from fidget toys to stay calm or focused, while sensory avoiders might need calming tools like noise-canceling headphones or soft, dim lighting.
Evidence: Fidget toys can help children redirect excess energy to improve focus (Harris et all, 2018). Noise-canceling headphones can reduce stress for those overwhelmed by loud environments (Pfeiffer, 2018).
Use Tools to Improve Focus & Emotional Regulation
Tools like stress balls, fidget cubes, & sensory cushions can help with focus, while breathing balls, calm-down glitter globes, or soft textures can aid emotional regulation during moments of frustration.
Evidence: Sensory tools can improve focus by providing a way to manage restlessness (Seifert & Metz 2017; Polak et al., 2017).
Create Sensory Breaks
Set up designated times or spaces for sensory breaks to help your child reset & prevent overwhelm.
Evidence: Sensory breaks can reduce stress, prevent disruptive behavior, & improve emotional well being & learning outcomes (Terada, 2018).
Start Simple & Rotate
Begin with 1-2 basic tools & gradually introduce new ones, rotating them to keep things fresh & address changing sensory needs throughout the day.
Tip: Observe your child's response to different tools & adjust as needed.
For more information:
Research
Pfeiffer, B., Stein Duker, L., Murphy, A., & Shui, C. (2019). Effectiveness of Noise-Attenuating Headphones on Physiological Responses for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders. Frontiers in integrative neuroscience, 13, 65. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnint.2019.00065
Polak, R., Hutchinson, D., Perryman, L., & Brueck, S. (2017) A Calming Cushion as a Therapeutic Wellness Tool for Youths with Disabilities and History of Trauma, Social Work, 62, 4, 359–365, https://doi.org/10.1093/sw/swx042
Seifert, A., & Metz, A. (2017). The Effects of Inflated Seating Cushions on Engagement in Preschool Circle Time. Early Childhood Education Journal. 45. 10.1007/s10643-016-0797-7
Tsakona, P., Kitsatis, I, Apostolou, T., Papadopoulou, O., Hristara-Papadopoulou, A. (2025). The Effect of Diaphragmatic Breathing as a Complementary Therapeutic Strategy in Stress of Children and Teenagers 6-18 Years Old. Children, 12(1):59. doi: 10.3390/children12010059. PMID: 39857890; PMCID: PMC11763547
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