5 Sensory Activities to Calm a Child with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)

Does your child get overwhelmed by the world around them? You’re not alone. 

  

Many children having sensory processing disorders (SPD), or diagnosed with autism, sound and textures and sometimes specific activities are too much to handle. 

 

The good news?  

There are simple, calming activities that can make a big difference.  

 

Whether your child has issues with autism sensory integration or just needs help staying regulated, these suggestions are really easy to try and super effective. 

 

Here are five fun and calming sensory activities: 

 

  1. Deep Pressure Techniques  

Think of deep pressure like a comforting hug for your child’s senses. Weighed blankets, tight squeezes, or even being inside a pillow fort can calm their overstimulated system.  

 

These techniques are often recommended in occupational therapy and work wonders for regulating emotions.  

 

  1. Calming Sensory Bottles  

To create magic in it, take an empty water bottle and fill it with colorful water, glitter, and beads!  

 

The slow, soothing movement inside the bottle helps reduce anxiety and improve focus—perfect for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.  

 

  1. Heavy Work Activities  

Need to burn some energy? Let your child push a cart, carry a backpack, or crawl through tunnels.  

 

These “heavy work” tasks provide sensory input and are often used in ABA therapy to help kids feel grounded and calm.  

 

  1. Fidget Tools and Toys  

From squishy stress balls to chewable toys, fidgets are lifesavers for kids with autism sensory processing challenges. 

 

 They’re small, portable, and can instantly soothe stress at home or on the go.  

 

  1. Quiet Sensory Corners  

Create a unique space just for your child. Add soft lights, pillows, sensory toys, and their favorite calming items.  

 

A quiet corner helps them reset when the world feels overwhelming—a simple solution for kids with autism sensory issues.  

 

Looking for more help? Platforms like One Autism Health offer autism care assistance and tools like autism care apps to guide you through this journey.  

 

These resources make finding the proper support and activities for sensory processing disorder (SPD) much more manageable.  

 

Your child deserves a space to feel calm, safe, and happy.  

 

Try these activities, explore autism apps, and see how small changes can make a big difference! 

Join our readers and stay informed on OAH. Subscribe to our newsletter now.
Thank you! We received your email with interest for our newsletter, stay tuned!
Oops! Something went wrong. Please try entering again.