10 Fun Sensory Input Examples You Can Use at Home

You want your kids to feel calm and happy at home. Sensory input examples can help with this. Many kids have sensory processing disorder. This can make daily life hard for them. Fun sensory input examples let kids explore and play. These activities help their brains and bodies. Studies show 1 in 6 kids have sensory processing disorder. If sensory issues are not treated, kids may feel anxious. They might have low self-esteem or trouble learning. Using fun sensory input examples helps kids learn self-control. It also helps them feel more confident. The best part is you can find or make these tools at home. You can change each activity to fit your child’s needs. A little creativity makes sensory input examples fun and helpful for your kids.

Key Takeaways

• Sensory input activities help kids feel calm and happy at home. They can lower stress and help kids focus better.

• You can make sensory tools with things you have at home. Simple things like rice, beans, or old socks can be used for fun sensory bins.

• Fidget toys and weighted blankets give comfort and help kids handle their feelings. Let your child pick what they like the most.

• Visual timers can make routines simpler. They help kids know time limits and feel less worried during changes.

• Doing sensory play every day can help your child feel more confident and learn new skills. Try different activities to find what your child likes best.

Sensory Input Examples for Home

You want your home to be a safe place. Sensory input examples help your child feel calm and happy. These tools make it easy for your child to try new things. Your child can touch, listen, and move in fun ways. You do not need special equipment. Things you use every day can be sensory tools.

Sensory input activities at home have many good effects. Your child can relax and enjoy playtime. You may see less stress and worry. Sensory play helps your child learn new skills. It also helps your child show feelings. Here are some common benefits you might notice:

• Lowers stress and worry

• Helps therapists, caregivers, and patients talk better

• Improves learning and skill building

• Supports handling emotions

You can use sensory input examples in lots of ways. Try adding sensory tools to your child’s daily routine. Use a sensory bin during play. Give fidget tools while reading. These activities make chores and bath time more fun. You can use sensory tools to help your child relax before bed.

Let’s see how sensory input activities at home compare to those in clinics or schools:

Home sensory input activities let your child explore more. You can pick the tools that help your child most. With some creativity, you can make any part of your home a place for sensory play and growth.

Sensory Bins

Sensory Tools for Tactile Play

You can turn any day into an adventure with sensory bins. These sensory tools give your child a chance to explore new textures and colors. When you fill a bin with different materials, you invite your child to touch, scoop, and pour. This hands-on play helps with tactile sensory stimulation and makes learning fun.

Sensory bins support tactile exploration. Your child can dig through rice, squish play dough, or run their fingers through beans. Each material feels different. This variety helps your child’s brain learn how to process touch. Sensory tools like scoops, cups, and small toys add even more ways to play. You might notice your child feels calm after using sensory bins. Many parents say these activities help manage stress and keep kids focused.

Tip: Sensory bin kits make it easy to get started. You can buy a kit or make your own with things you have at home.

Here’s what sensory bins can do for your child:

• Let your child engage with many textures for better tactile exploration.

• Build fine motor skills with pouring, scooping, and digging.

• Offer a calming space when your child feels overwhelmed.

Setup Ideas

You don’t need fancy supplies to create sensory bins. Many sensory tools come from your kitchen or craft drawer. Try filling a bin with dry pasta, kinetic sand, or cotton balls. You can also use oats, beans, or even old cereal. Each material gives a new touch experience.

Want to make it more fun? Hide small toys or buttons in the bin. Ask your child to find them using only their hands. This game boosts tactile skills and keeps your child engaged. You can switch out materials each week to keep things fresh.

Here are some easy sensory bin kits you can try:

1. Rice and pom-poms with scoops and cups.

2. Shaving cream with foam shapes and plastic animals.

Let your child lead the play. Watch how they use the sensory tools and talk about what they feel. You’ll see how much they learn just by using their sense of touch.

Fidget Toys

Popular Sensory Toys

Fidget toys are very common now. These sensory tools help you focus and feel calm at home. Many occupational therapists suggest them for kids with sensory needs. There are many types of toys for different likes. Some kids want toys to twist, squeeze, or stretch. Others like toys that make soft sounds or have bright colors.

Here are some popular sensory toys you can use at home:

Tangle fidget toys are special because you can twist and turn them. These toys keep your hands busy and help your brain stay awake. Therapy putty is fun to squeeze and stretch. It also makes your hands stronger. Sensory bean bags are soft and squishy, and many kids enjoy them.

Fidgeting is a complex action. It comes from how the brain and body work together in people with ADHD. Learning about fidgeting helps us see why it is helpful.

Usage Tips

You may wonder how to use fidget toys at home. The best way is to let your child choose the toys they like. Some kids use tangle fidget toys while reading or doing homework. Others keep a sensory toy in their pocket when they feel stressed. You can put a basket of toys in the living room or bedroom. This way, your child can grab a toy when they need it.

Cynthia Yang, a licensed clinical social worker and therapist, says fidgeting is a natural way to self-regulate. For students with ADHD, anxiety, or sensory needs, these toys can really help.

In 2005, Sarah Wright and I wrote the book Fidget to Focus. We said fidgeting helps people focus by using steady sensory input to control thoughts and feelings.

Fidgeting can help kids with ADHD or anxiety pay attention and stay interested. Moving can wake up the brain and help you concentrate.

Try different sensory toys to see what your child likes best. You might notice your child feels calmer and can focus better after using these toys. If your child gets distracted, try a new toy or another sensory activity. You can always change things to fit your child’s needs.

Weighted Blankets and Lap Pads

Calming Sensory Tools

Have you ever felt better after a gentle hug? Weighted blankets and lap pads work in a similar way. They give your body deep pressure, which can help you feel calm. Many kids with sensory needs like the feeling of gentle weight. It helps them relax and focus. Some kids also feel more organized when using these tools.

You might notice your child gets calm faster with a weighted lap pad. These pads can be used during homework or quiet time. Some lap pads have different textures or extra features. These make them even more helpful. Here’s why these sensory tools are special:

• They give proprioceptive input, which calms and organizes the body.

• Kids who have trouble sitting still can benefit from a weighted lap pad.

• Some lap pads have different textures for extra sensory feedback.

You can use these tools while reading, riding in the car, or at bedtime. They help your child feel safe and focused during daily routines.

Safe Use

Safety is very important when using weighted blankets and lap pads. You want your child to feel safe and comfortable every time. Here are some tips to remember:

• Always watch your child when they use weighted items.

• Make sure your child can take off the blanket or pad by themselves.

• Never use these items to hold your child down or cover their face.

• Check for damage or leaks before each use.

• Take the blanket away if your child feels uncomfortable.

Some kids should not use weighted products. This is true if they have breathing, heart, or certain brain conditions. If you are not sure, ask your doctor first.

Here’s a quick guide for safe use:

If you follow these steps, your child can enjoy sensory input safely. Weighted blankets and lap pads can help make your home feel calm for everyone.

Sensory Swings

Occupational Therapy Toys for Motion

Some kids like to move a lot. Moving helps them feel calm and focused. Occupational therapy toys can help with this need. Sensory swings are a favorite at home. These swings let your child spin, rock, or sway safely. You can put them in a playroom, bedroom, or outside.

Sensory swings help your child get the movement they need. Swinging gives vestibular input to the body. This helps the brain learn balance and movement. Many occupational therapy toys give this kind of input. Your child’s mood may get better after swinging. They might feel ready to learn and more balanced.

Research shows sensory swings help kids in many ways:

• The American Journal of Occupational Therapy says sensory integration therapy helps with motor skills and emotions.

• Reflex Integration Programs use these toys to help with reflexes and vestibular processing. You can do these programs at home with help.

• Vestibular stimulation from these toys helps the nervous system handle sensory input. This leads to better coordination and daily skills.

• Activities like swinging help kids feel balanced and manage their sensory needs.

Try different occupational therapy toys to see what your child likes. Some kids like gentle rocking. Others want to spin. These toys give many choices for movement and fun.

Safety Tips

Safety is very important when using these toys at home. You want your child to have fun and stay safe. Always check the space around the swing. Remove sharp things and make sure the swing is secure. Do not put these toys near windows or breakable items.

Here are some safety tips for using these toys:

• Make sure the area has no sharp edges.

• Use strong mounting hardware for all toys.

• Pick non-toxic and hypoallergenic materials for your toys.

• Avoid small parts that could cause choking.

• Cover outlets and use battery lights near these toys.

Tip: Always watch your child while they use these toys. Check the swing and hardware often for damage.

You can make your home safe and fun with the right toys. Sensory swings and other occupational therapy toys help your child move, play, and grow.

Noise-Canceling Headphones

Auditory Sensory Tools

Sometimes your child might cover their ears when it gets loud. Some kids get upset by normal sounds at home or outside. Noise-canceling headphones can help with this problem. These headphones block out extra noise and make things quieter. They give your child a break from too much sound. This helps your child focus, relax, or join in family time.

Many parents use noise-canceling headphones as part of their sensory tools. Studies show these headphones help kids with autism feel less overwhelmed. In one study, over 1,600 kids used these headphones. Parents said their children felt calmer and listened better at the doctor’s office.

You can use noise-canceling headphones at home, in the car, or in busy places. They help make things easier for kids who need less noise. Many schools and therapy centers use these headphones to help kids stay calm and pay attention.

Comfort Tips

Picking the right headphones is important for your child. Look for features that make them comfy and easy to wear. Here are some things to look for:

• Active noise cancellation to block loud sounds

• Soft padding and headbands that adjust for comfort

• Strong materials that last a long time

• Volume limits to keep your child’s ears safe

Help your child get used to the headphones by letting them try them for a short time. Start when it is quiet, then use them in louder places. Watch if your child feels okay. Some kids need time to get used to new sensory tools. If your child feels safe and happy, they will get the most help from these headphones.

Tip: Let your child pick the color or style they like best. This makes wearing headphones more fun and special.

Noise-canceling headphones can make loud times feel peaceful. With the right fit and features, your child can handle noise at home more easily.

Chewable Jewelry

Oral Sensory Toys

Does your child chew on pencils or sleeves? Some kids chew to help themselves focus or calm down. Chewable jewelry gives a safe way to chew. These sensory tools come in many shapes and colors. Your child can pick one they like best.

Chewable jewelry is good for kids who need to chew. It helps them feel calm in busy places. When your child wears it, they always have it close. This can stop them from chewing unsafe things.

Here are some ways chewable jewelry helps:

• Gives a safe thing to chew on.

• Helps kids calm down and control themselves.

• Stops chewing on clothes or pencils.

• Lets kids get sensory input without others noticing.

• Made for safety and comfort, so kids can wear it all day.

You may see your child feel less worried and more focused. Chewable necklaces are popular because they look like normal jewelry. They also give strong sensory feedback.

Choosing Safe Options

Safety is most important when picking oral sensory toys. Always choose chewable jewelry made from safe, BPA-free materials. Look for jewelry with breakaway clasps. These help stop choking and make it easy to take off.

Check the age range before you buy. Some jewelry is for older kids, and some for younger ones. Wash the jewelry often to keep it clean. If you see cracks or damage, get a new one right away.

Here are some tips for picking safe sensory jewelry:

• Choose strong, food-grade silicone.

• Make sure it has a breakaway clasp.

• Do not pick jewelry with small parts or sharp edges.

• Clean it every day with soap and water.

Tip: Let your child pick their favorite color or shape. This makes them want to use their new sensory tool.

Chewable jewelry can really help kids who need to chew. With the right one, your child can meet their sensory needs safely every day.

Visual Timers

Visual Sensory Tools

Visual timers can really help at home. Sometimes, your child may feel confused if they do not know how long something will last. Visual timers show time passing in a way that is easy to see. This helps your child know what will happen next. Many occupational therapists suggest using these tools for kids with sensory needs. You can use a Time Timer, a sand timer, or a timer app on your phone. Each one gives a clear signal that is simple to follow.

Visual timers help with sensory routines by showing time in a way your child understands. You can use them for homework, play, or getting ready in the morning. When your child sees the timer, they know how much time is left. This helps them feel safe and in control. Visual timers also make it easier to switch between activities, which can be tough for kids with sensory processing challenges.

Here are some ways visual timers help at home:

• Make it easier to switch between activities

• Lower worry about time limits

• Help with focus and self-control

• Support independence during daily routines

Tip: Try using a visual timer with a sensory schedule or checklist for extra help.

Structure and Predictability

Kids with sensory needs do better with clear routines. Visual timers help add order and make the day more predictable. Research shows that routines with visual schedules, like pictures or checklists, help kids with sensory processing disorders know what to expect each day. This can lower stress and stop meltdowns.

You can use visual timers to show when to start or stop an activity. This makes changes between activities easier and less stressful. Routines that stay the same help lower worry and confusion. Clear rules and signals help your child do well. Visual schedules and timers help your child know what is coming next.

A review found that visual schedules help kids learn skills like starting social talks and handling changes. Parents often feel happier with their child’s progress when they use these tools. You can make your home feel calmer and more organized by adding visual timers to your sensory toolkit.

Glitter Fidget Jars

DIY Sensory Input Examples

You can make glitter fidget jars at home with just a few supplies. These jars are a favorite sensory tool for many families. You only need a clear plastic bottle, water, glue, and glitter. Pour water and glue into the bottle, then add glitter. Shake it up and watch the glitter swirl. Kids love to help with this project. You can let your child pick the colors and type of glitter. This makes the jar special and personal.

Glitter fidget jars work as a sensory activity because they give your child something to watch and hold. When your child shakes the jar, the glitter moves slowly. This movement grabs their attention and helps them focus. You can use these jars during quiet time, homework, or when your child feels upset.

Tip: Try adding small beads or sequins for extra sparkle. You can also use glow-in-the-dark glitter for nighttime sensory play.

Here are some benefits of making your own glitter fidget jars:

• You control the size and look of the jar.

• Your child learns about mixing and measuring.

• The jar becomes a calming sensory tool for daily use.

Calming Visual Play

Glitter fidget jars offer calming visual play for children with sensory needs. Watching glitter settle can help your child relax and manage strong feelings. Many therapists suggest these jars for kids who need sensory breaks. You can use the jar as a timer for calming down or as a reward after chores.

Research shows that calm down bottles, which are similar to glitter jars, help children self-soothe and handle emotions. These sensory tools encourage mindfulness and emotional regulation. Kids learn to pause and watch the glitter, which helps them build resilience and adaptability.

• DIY calm down bottles help children manage emotions and self-soothe.

• Calm down glitter jars promote mindfulness and emotional regulation.

You can keep a glitter fidget jar in your child’s sensory kit or on their desk. When your child feels anxious, ask them to shake the jar and watch the glitter fall. This simple sensory activity can turn a stressful moment into a peaceful one.

Glitter fidget jars are easy to make and use. You can add them to your sensory routine and see how much they help your child feel calm and happy.

Therapy Putty

Occupational Therapy Toys for Hands

Therapy putty is a popular tool for families. You can use it at home to help your child’s sensory needs. The putty feels soft and can stretch a lot. Your child can squeeze, pull, or roll it in their hands. These moves give strong sensory input and help calm busy minds. Many occupational therapists use therapy putty in their work. You can use it at home for extra practice.

Here’s why therapy putty is great for sensory play:

• Squeezing therapy putty helps make hand muscles stronger.

• Pulling and stretching the putty gives deep sensory feedback.

• Therapy putty can help your child focus during homework or quiet time.

• You can use it as a fidget tool for busy hands.

Therapy putty comes in many colors and textures. Some have glitter or scents for more sensory fun. Your child might like hiding small beads or toys inside the putty. Then they can search for them. This makes hand exercises feel like a fun game.

Fine Motor Skills

Therapy putty is fun and helps your child build skills. Fine motor skills are small movements for writing, buttoning shirts, or tying shoes. Playing with therapy putty lets your child practice these skills in a safe way.

Occupational therapists use therapy putty to help kids with weak hand muscles. Squeezing and rolling the putty makes hands stronger. This helps with daily tasks at home and school.

You can pick different types of therapy putty for your child’s age and needs. Here’s a quick guide:

Try adding therapy putty to your child’s sensory toolkit. You might see better focus, stronger hands, and more confidence in daily life. Therapy putty makes sensory play easy and helpful for everyone.

Balance Boards

Active Sensory Tools

Balance boards make moving and playing fun at home. You can use them to help your child feel focused. When your child stands or rocks, their body works to stay steady. This kind of play wakes up the senses. It helps your child notice how their body moves.

Many occupational therapists suggest balance boards for kids with sensory needs. These boards test your child’s balance and coordination. Your child may smile or laugh while wobbling. Balance boards turn exercise into a game. Kids get sensory input while having fun.

Here are some top balance boards for home:

• The BoBo Balance Board helps with balance and posture.

• It fits everyone in the family.

• The motion sensor and wobble cushion give feedback through the BoBo app.

• You can use it for workouts, sensory play, or rehab.

• It is simple to use and makes moving fun for all ages.

Tip: Put the board on a soft mat or carpet for safety.

Core Strength

Balance boards help with more than balance. They also build core strength for sitting and standing. When your child uses a board, their tummy, back, and legs work together. This teamwork helps your child feel strong and confident.

Research shows balance boards boost stability and core strength. Kids who use them often stand straighter and know their bodies better. You can join your child on the board for fun together.

Balance boards fit into your sensory routine easily. Try a few minutes of balance play before homework or after school. You will see your child’s confidence and skills grow with every wobble.

You can use sensory toys and tools to help your child feel safe at home. These activities help your child’s senses work better. They also help your child play with others and move their body. Sensory play can help your child handle feelings and grow in new ways. Some families have problems with loud sounds or certain textures. You can try different sensory ideas to see what works best. It is okay to change things to fit your family. Trying new things or joining groups can help you learn more. You can also meet other families who understand. If you want, share your own sensory stories or ask questions in the comments!

FAQ

What is sensory input?

Sensory input means information your body gets from things you see, hear, touch, taste, or smell. You use sensory input every day. It helps you understand the world and react to what happens around you.

How do I know if my child needs more sensory activities?

You might notice your child seeks out movement, chews on things, or covers their ears often. If your child seems overwhelmed or avoids certain textures, more sensory play at home can help.

Can I make sensory tools with things I already have?

Yes! You can use rice, beans, or even old socks to create sensory bins or fidget toys. Many sensory activities use simple items from your kitchen or craft drawer.

Are sensory toys safe for all ages?

Most sensory toys are safe, but always check the age range and watch your child during play. Some sensory tools have small parts or strong scents, so pick what fits your child’s needs best.

How often should I use sensory activities at home?

Try sensory play every day, even for a few minutes. You can add sensory breaks to your routine. Watch how your child reacts and adjust the activities as needed.

See Also

Engaging Sensory Experiences for Young Learners at Home

Creative Sensory Table Concepts for Simple Home Arrangements

Essential Suggestions for Creating a Cozy Sensory Space

Enhance Your Sensory Environment with These 20 Must-Haves

Best 10 Clean Sensory Play Ideas for Nurseries This Year