Ever ask yourself if there's a secret code to assist your child in developing? It's all about using their senses! This article will explore easy, efficient Occupational Therapy Sensory & Occupational Therapy for Self Regulation tips for sensory development, fine motor skills, and proprioceptive input tips. So, read on for some game-changing information.

Understanding Sensory Sensitivities

Most children filter sensory information differently. Consider light, noise, different textures, as well as even movement. Some children get overwhelmed, while others actively seek powerful stimulation. The identification of such individual profiles is the very first step. You can better care for them and promote healthy growth if you do.

Boosting Visual Motor Skills

Fine motor skills involve coordinating what the eyes see with what the hands do. These skills impact handwriting, sports, and everyday tasks. Here are great ways to encourage fine motor development:

  • Play games involving catching and throwing a ball. Maybe even try using different-sized balls. This helps improve hand-eye coordination.
  • Encourage drawing, coloring, or painting. These activities help develop fine motor skills, while also enhancing visual tracking.
  • Try completing puzzles of varying difficulty. These will improve spatial reasoning plus problem-solving abilities.

Proprioceptive Power: Input for Regulation

These proprioceptive input tips means becoming aware of one's body so that a child might become aware of where his body is located in space and help regulate energy levels. Activities that require deep pressure and/or resistance tend to be most effective.

Here's how you can help your child using these tips:

  1. By providing heavy work to your child like pushing a stroller, grocery carrying, or wall push-ups.
  2. Encouraging activities like rolling up in a blanket. Or, try animal walks such as bear crawls or crab walks to get input.
  3. Offer some play with modeling clay or play dough. The resistance offers calming, organizing input.

Sensory Activities to Incorporate

Sensory activities can be woven into your daily routines. This should provide your child with consistent sensory input. For a little one who seems sensory seeking, make sure to provide calming options. But for another child that is overstimulated, reduce the input around them.

  • Create a sensory bin. Fill a container with rice, beans, or sand. Then add small toys or objects. Let your child explore and manipulate the contents!
  • Play with textured materials. Things like water beads, shaving cream, or even cooked pasta can create great experiences. Make sure to supervise to avoid any potential hazards.
  • Incorporate movement activities. Activities such as jumping on a trampoline, doing yoga poses, or taking a nature walk all assist.

When to Seek Professional Advice?

While these tips offer strategies, some kids need specialized support. If sensory sensitivities are really impacting daily life, talk to a professional. An occupational therapist can perform a thorough assessment. They can also create an individualized treatment plan. This addresses your child's needs.

Final Thoughts

Helping kids navigate their sensory world can be a rewarding journey. And it promotes healthy development plus overall well-being. Implementing these fine motor skills tips can make a real difference. So, start experimenting with these activities and see what works for your kiddo.

Now, which sensory activity will you try first? Contact The Kioko Center if you have any concerns!