Whether we’re kids or grown-ups, we all find unique ways to calm ourselves, rouse ourselves or stay focused on a challenging task, and we use all our senses to do so. Whether we splash cold water on our face, listen to rock or Bach, go for a run, suck a peppermint, gnaw on our pencil (or our shirt, like Erin’s son used to), we are creating a “sensory diet” for ourselves. This week Kate Biederman, an occupational therapist from St. David’s Center for Child & Family Development, joins Marti & Erin to shine light on how we can be more aware and intentional in helping our children find the “sensory diet” that will allow them to be their best at home, school or on a trip to the mall. In helping our children do this, we are sure to help ourselves as well!

 

Think about a recent day when you were at your best; what was your “sensory diet” on that day in terms of sights, sounds, tastes, touch and movement? Now think about your child and what sensory experiences seem most effective in helping him or her start the day strong, handle a difficult situation or settle down at bedtime. What new ideas did you get from this Mom Enough discussion that you could use to help your child be well-regulated, energetic, relaxed and focused? Leave a comment below!

 

For signs your child could benefit from therapy, click here.

For sensory diet information to help your child reach an optimal level of arousal/energy, click here.

For proprioception information and activities to improve sensory processing/decrease hypersensitivity, click here.

For other useful information found on our Resources page, click here.