• Sensory Processing Activities: Designed to help children manage sensory input, these activities focus on engaging different senses (touch, sight, hearing, smell, and movement). Activities may include swinging, bouncing on a therapy ball, or walking on textured surfaces. These activities can help children become more comfortable with sensory stimuli they might otherwise find overwhelming.
• Calming Techniques: Some children with autism may experience sensory overload or anxiety. Providing a calming space with soft lighting, weighted blankets, or noise-canceling headphones can help children self-regulate and reduce stress when they become overwhelmed.
• Fine and Gross Motor Skill Development: Through activities like jumping, spinning, or playing with textured toys, children can improve their motor coordination and balance while also addressing sensory sensitivities.
• Multi-Sensory Learning: Using a combination of auditory, visual, and tactile input in learning activities can help children process and respond to information more effectively. For example, combining listening to music with hand motions or playing with materials like sand, water, or clay can enhance learning experiences.
• Sensory Diets: Tailoring a sensory “diet” to each child’s needs, providing specific activities at different times of the day to help them regulate sensory input. This might include activities like squeezing a stress ball or taking breaks for calming exercises when feeling overwhelmed.
• Focus on Self-Regulation: Teaching children strategies to understand and control their sensory responses (e.g., when to seek calming activities or when to engage in stimulating tasks), helping them manage their emotions and reactions in various settings.
• Individualized Sensory Plans: Creating personalized sensory profiles for each child, taking into account their unique sensory preferences and sensitivities. These profiles guide therapy sessions, allowing each child to engage in activities that meet their sensory needs.

Sensory Integration Therapy can create a supportive and responsive environment for children to feel more confident and comfortable. It can help them build tolerance to sensory challenges while improving their overall behavior and learning abilities.