Occupational Therapy Tools for Kids
Children who have been diagnosed with a a mental or developmental dysfunction can experience sensory integration issues, which causes children to be overly sensitive to textures and sensations. One way to help minimize this discomfort is to use a few occupational therapy tools. Occupational therapy uses movement and sensory techniques to improve overall behavior in children with a physical or mental dysfunction. A few occupational therapy tools include the brush, which is used to desensitize the skin, the "heavy teddy," which is used to soothe restlessness, and the mini trampoline, which calms hyperactivity.
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Brushes
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The brushes used during occupational therapy sessions are simple surgical brushes, and can be purchased from any pharmacy or through an online merchant. Brushing involves stroking the brush onto your child's arms, legs and back in long, fluid motions. It is important to brush in a rhythmical motion, keeping the brush moving down the length of the limbs. Brushing regularly seems to decrease over-sensitivities in the skin.
Heavy Teddy Bear
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Children who have a physical or mental dysfunction often feel restless, and can be soothed by simply placing a large, heavy doll onto their laps. Although occupational therapists will have professional-grade weighted dolls, you can create your own weighted teddy bear by cutting open the seam along the back of a large teddy bear, and stuffing the middle with one to two old phone books. Sew up the back, and place the weighted teddy bear onto your child's lap. The weight calms their nerves quickly.
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Mini Trampoline
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Many times, children with a physical or mental dysfunction will seem hyperactive, which can sometimes cause a misdiagnosis of ADHD. One way to soothe this hyperactivity is to have your child jump on a mini trampoline, which is used frequently during occupational therapy. You can purchase a mini trampoline at any sporting goods store or through an online merchant. Have your child jump on the mini trampoline every day to calm hyperactive behaviors.
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References
- Photo Credit boy jumping image by sonya etchison from Fotolia.com
