Supporting children with autism in developing self-regulation abilities is a cornerstone of promoting their independence, emotional health, and social success. Sensory play provides a highly effective, engaging way for these children to learn self-regulation skills, helping them manage sensory inputs and their emotional and behavioral responses.
What Is Self-Regulation and Why Is It Important?
Self-regulation is the ability to manage one’s emotions, behaviors, and impulses in response to external stimuli. This skill is essential in various aspects of life, from controlling responses to stressful situations to maintaining focus during tasks.
For children on the autism spectrum, developing self-regulation can greatly improve social interactions, learning, and day-to-day functioning. These children often face sensory sensitivities, which can make self-regulation challenging. Too much sensory input can feel overwhelming and may lead to meltdowns, withdrawal, or difficulties in social situations.
Through consistent practice, sensory play can become a valuable avenue for children with autism to explore their sensory needs in a safe environment, helping them build resilience and learn to manage overwhelming sensations. This approach fosters self-regulation abilities in a positive, proactive way.
The Role of Sensory Play in Developing Self-Regulation Skills
Sensory play refers to activities that engage one or more of the five senses—touch, smell, taste, sight, and hearing—as well as movement and balance senses. These activities allow children to explore sensory inputs in a structured way, helping them gradually build tolerance, understanding, and control over their responses.
Here are a few of the key ways that sensory play benefits self-regulation development:
Effective Sensory Play Activities for Self-Regulation
Sensory play is most effective when activities are tailored to the child’s preferences and sensory needs. Here are some sensory play activities that parents and caregivers can incorporate to promote self-regulation:
- Bubble Wrap Popping: This tactile and auditory activity can offer stress relief and an outlet for excess energy. Children enjoy the immediate feedback of popping bubbles, which helps them stay engaged while experiencing sensory input.
- Sensory Bins: Fill a container with items like rice, sand, or dried beans. Children can bury and find objects, sort items by texture, or simply sift their hands through the bin. This activity provides a comforting tactile experience and encourages focused exploration.
- Playdough and Slime: Both materials offer a unique tactile experience that promotes fine motor skills and creativity. The repetitive motions of squeezing, rolling, and molding also serve as calming actions for many children.
- Sensory Bottles: These bottles are filled with colorful objects or glitter suspended in a liquid. Watching the slow movement can help children calm down and focus, making sensory bottles an effective tool for emotional regulation.
- Nature Walks: Outdoor environments provide countless sensory opportunities, from the feel of grass and tree bark to the sounds of birds and rustling leaves. Nature walks engage multiple senses simultaneously and can have a grounding, calming effect.
Using Sensory Tools to Support Self-Regulation
Sensory tools provide additional support for children learning to self-regulate. These tools offer various types of input that can help children manage their sensory needs on a day-to-day basis.
- Weighted Blankets: These blankets apply gentle, even pressure across the body, which can have a calming effect and reduce anxiety. Weighted blankets are ideal for use during rest times or transitions.
- Fidget Toys: Small, handheld toys allow children to focus on repetitive, comforting movements. Fidget toys are useful for children who need help concentrating or who feel stressed in social situations.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: For children who find loud or unexpected noises overwhelming, these headphones can create a quieter, more manageable environment.
- Body Socks: Made from stretchy fabric, body socks provide deep pressure and proprioceptive input, promoting body awareness and helping children feel more grounded.
Integrating these sensory tools into daily life, along with sensory play, can make a meaningful difference in a child’s ability to manage sensory inputs.
Techniques to Encourage Self-Regulation through Sensory Play
Employing specific techniques during sensory play can make the experience more effective for children on the autism spectrum. Here are a few approaches to consider:
- Texture Exploration: Introduce a range of textures through different materials like slime, playdough, and textured fabrics. Varying textures offer children an opportunity to explore sensations and learn their preferences in a controlled way.
- Sensory Art Activities: Encourage children to engage in art projects using various colors, textures, and materials. Sensory art can become a self-expression tool, allowing children to convey their emotions visually.
- Nature Exploration: Time spent outdoors can help children explore new sensory experiences at their own pace. Activities like walking barefoot on grass, touching plants, or listening to natural sounds can serve as a natural form of sensory play.
The Lasting Benefits of Sensory Play for Self-Regulation
Through consistent sensory play, children gradually build their ability to self-regulate. They become better equipped to manage their reactions to sensory inputs, cope with overwhelming situations, and express their needs. This foundation of self-regulation can benefit children in social settings, school, and future independent living.
At A Better Way ABA, we believe in the transformative power of sensory play, providing autism services in New York that support children with autism on their journey to self-regulation and sensory management. Reach out to us to learn how we can support your child’s growth and success!
Sources:
https://www.twinkl.com.ph/teaching-wiki/sensory-play
https://www.parents.com/sensory-play-activities-for-toddlers-and-preschoolers-7644819