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One of the main components of sensory integration and pediatric occupational therapy is the idea that the activities are “child led”. It is my job as your child’s therapist to take whatever they are interested in (cars, superheroes, Bluey, etc) and turn that into a functional activity that addresses both their sensory needs and works toward their goals. I could plan the most amazing activity, but if your child walks in the door and does not want to play that game or participate in that activity, it is my job to be flexible and adjust my plan accordingly. It can be harder than it sounds!
From my experience, this is the most important skill we have in our toolbox as therapists. We want the child to be invested in their own intervention, and in order to do that, we can’t force them to participate in activities that aren’t fun! I tell families in every screening, “Our sessions should look like we are playing games the whole time. Your child should want to come back next week. That is my goal”. But why is this so important? Children learn best when they are not stressed, and have opportunities to explore. They will gain more skills and knowledge if they are having fun and given a chance to try new and exciting things, and also if they are given opportunities to problem solve within a supportive environment.
All this to say, that child led sensory motor play doesn’t have to stay in the clinic! This type of play can be implemented at home, and boost your child’s development in all areas.
Here are my top 3 favorite child-led sensory activities for home:
1. Making a Sensory Bin
This activity can be adapted in so many ways! Oftentimes, families tell me they are worried about having a sensory bin at home due to mess or mouthing. I love the idea of a “taste safe” bin using household ingredients for the younger children or for those prone to put toys and materials in their mouths. And as for the mess, moving the bin outside is my top recommendation. Make a base (ie. taste safe kinetic sand, jello, pudding, etc.) and add in washable toys, cars, coins, etc. The goal of this is to provide opportunities for your child to explore and find new ways to play!
2. Arts and Crafts
This may seem simple but painting, coloring, and building with clay are some of the best child-led fine motor activities around! Start with an idea (“let’s draw a race track for your cars!”) and see where the activity leads!
3. Building a fort:
Building a fort is such a fun way to add in proprioceptive input and motor planning to your child’s day! I recommend helping with the set up and materials, and letting your child figure out how to assemble and build the fort together. This is always a fun launch point for pretend play and games!
Ultimately, the activities that will fit your child and their skills best, are the ones that you discover together! It can be hard to do, but try letting your child take charge of the playtime and see where it leads you!
If you have concerns about your child’s development or their play skills, contact us for a complimentary consultation!
KAELYN GREEN
Kaelyn Green is a licensed occupational therapist at Valued Voices. She is certified by the University of Southern California in Sensory Integration and is an advocate for addressing underlying sensory functioning in order to improve occupational performance. She is passionate about meeting children and families where they are at and seeks to tailor interventions to the unique needs of her clients. When she is not working, you will find Kaelyn taking care of her two goldendoodles, working in her garden, or taking trips to the Central Coast.
