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What is a Sensory Diet?

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Summary

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A sensory diet is a plan that helps people feel good and function well by giving them activities that meet their sensory needs. It includes activities like running, jumping, or using a weighted blanket to provide the body with the input needed to feel calm and organized. Sensory diets can be helpful for people with sensory issues, like those with autism or anxiety, and they are designed by occupational therapists to fit each individual’s needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Question

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Who can benefit from a sensory diet?

Anyone can benefit from a sensory diet, but it is commonly used by people with sensory processing issues, like autism, ADHD, or anxiety.

What are some examples of sensory activities?

Sensory activities can include a wide range of activities such as jumping, swinging, touching different textures, smelling different scents, or listening to different types of music.

How is a sensory diet developed?

A sensory diet is typically developed by an occupational therapist, who assesses an individual’s sensory needs, preferences, and goals, and creates a personalized plan that includes specific activities and input.

Scientific Definition

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A sensory diet is a plan that helps people keep their body and mind balanced by giving them activities that can meet their sensory needs. Just like we eat food to get the nutrients our body needs, we also need sensory experiences to feel good and function well. A sensory diet may include jumping, running, swinging, or using a weighted blanket to provide the body with the input it needs to feel calm and organized. Other activities involve touching different textures, smelling different scents, or listening to different types of music. Sensory diets can be helpful for people with sensory processing issues, like those with autism, ADHD, or anxiety, but they can also be useful for anyone who wants to improve their focus, mood, or overall well-being. Sensory diets are usually designed by occupational therapists and can be customized to fit each individual’s needs and preferences.

Video Explanation

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Real World Example of Sensory Diet

Meet Susie, a curious and energetic girl who loves exploring the world around her. One day, Susie’s mom noticed that Susie had difficulty staying focused and often felt overwhelmed in busy environments. After consulting with an occupational therapist, they discovered the concept of sensory diets. Here’s how sensory diets transformed Susie’s life:

  • Customized Plan: Susie’s therapist created a sensory diet tailored to her needs, including activities like swinging, playing with textured toys, and listening to calming music.
  • Calming Activities: Swinging on a sensory swing helped Susie regulate her body and feel more centered.
  • Texture Exploration: Engaging with various textures, like squishy putty and smooth stones, stimulated Susie’s sense of touch and provided a soothing experience.
  • Sensory Breaks: Susie learned to recognize when she needed a sensory break and used her weighted blanket for comfort and relaxation.
  • Improved Focus: With the help of her sensory diet, Susie’s ability to concentrate and engage in activities improved significantly.

Through the guidance of her therapist and the implementation of a sensory diet, Susie discovered new ways to thrive, feel calm, and enjoy her everyday adventures.

How Does Sensory Diet Work?

Sensory diets work by providing individuals with specific activities and experiences that address their sensory needs. Here are some examples of how sensory diets can be implemented:

  • Physical activities such as jumping, running, and swinging provide input that helps regulate the nervous system.
  • Using a weighted blanket or engaging in deep pressure activities can promote a sense of calm and relaxation.
  • Tactile activities like playing with different textures, such as sand or slime, can stimulate the sense of touch.
  • Aromatherapy, such as smelling essential oils or scented objects, can have a calming or invigorating effect.
  • Listening to various types of music, such as classical or calming melodies, can help regulate mood and focus.

In conclusion, sensory diets involve a range of activities tailored to meet individual sensory needs, promoting a sense of balance, well-being, and improved functioning. Goally, a tablet, supports sensory diets with apps for life skills, language development, emotional regulation, executive functioning, and social skills, benefiting kids with sensory processing issues.

 

This post was originally published on Feb. 15, 2023. It was updated on July 20, 2023.