Children who have experienced trauma may develop sensory seeking behaviors. These behaviors happen because the child’s brain may not function as it should, and cannot access all of the information coming in from the body, especially from the
vestibular system, which handles balance and spatial orientation. As a result, the brain and the body do not feel safe, and this may cause a child’s arousal level and survival mode to kick in. There are a number of behaviors typical of a child who is sensory seeking, including an inability to sit still and impulsive responses. With warmer weather and summer break, here are some ideas to keep your little one entertained, but also support their sensory needs.
Upside Down Ice Toss
Everyone wants to cool down when it’s hot outside, and this activity that will help do just that. All you need is:
- Ice
- Two Large Bowls
- A Large Spoon or Tongs
- A Lawn Chair
The object of this activity is to move the ice from one large bowl to the other, using the large spoon or the tongs, whichever utensil your kiddo prefers. The catch to this activity is that you must do it upside down! By being upside down, your kiddo is satisfying their need for vestibular simulation- and having fun!
Lego Bowling
This activity is fun for the whole family and is especially fun for the kiddo who LOVES playing with Legos. All you need is:
- 12 Lego Towers (These will be the Pins)
- Ice Bowling Balls (or you can replace this with something that is not ice)
- A Piece of Chalk
The object of this game is exactly the same as bowling, and for an extra learning tool you can make your child keep score and sharpen those math skills. If you are making the ice bowling balls, here is a great helper for making those. Your kiddo will be meeting their vestibular behavior need by rolling the ice bowling ball and knocking down the Lego pins. You can add more vestibular movement by having your kiddo bowl in different positions, such as between the legs and backwards.
Outdoor Activities
Incorporating a family hike, walk, or bike ride is also a great way to get in some fun vestibular activities. In each of these activities, the constant movement is great for sensory seeking behaviors. More activities you can do include swimming and swinging on a swing set as well. The vertical back-and-forth motion is great for your kiddo and is a fun way for them to meet their sensory needs.
Brittany Smith
Brittany Smith works as a full-time Home Study Assistant with MLJ Adoptions. Adoption and orphan care became a passion for her on a mission trip to China with Show Hope, an adoption and orphan care advocacy organization.
Brittany Smith
Brittany Smith works as a full-time Home Study Assistant with MLJ Adoptions. Adoption and orphan care became a passion for her on a mission trip to China with Show Hope, an adoption and orphan care advocacy organization.