Sensory Processing - Page 2 of 12

The Cardboard Box Texture Tunnel

Steps:

Use masking tape to connect two large boxes to create a long, sturdy tunnel.
Cut the flaps off both ends so your child has a clear path to crawl through.
Use tape to secure different pieces of fabric to the bottom of the tunnel.
Stick several soft cotton balls to the inner walls of the box using glue or tape.
Encourage your child to crawl through the tunnel and touch the various textures.
Talk about the sensations, asking if the walls feel soft, fuzzy, or smooth.

Safety Tip:
CHOKING HAZARD: Cotton balls are small parts. Always supervise your toddler closely and ensure they do not pull them off to put in their mouth.

The Static Magic Paper Lift

Steps:

Help your child tear the tissue paper into very small, light pieces.
Place all the tiny paper bits into a pile on a flat table.
Blow up the balloon and tie it tightly for your child.
Have your child rub the balloon quickly against their hair.
Hold the balloon just above the paper bits and watch them jump up!
Challenge your child to move the stuck paper over to an empty bowl.
Use your fingers to peel the paper off and start again.

Safety Tip:
Adult supervision is required when using balloons. Immediately pick up and discard any broken balloon pieces to keep your child safe.

Balloon Powered Foil Boat

Steps:

Fill your foil pan halfway with cool water.
Place the pan on a flat table.
Take a straw and a balloon from your kit.
Slide the balloon neck over one straw end.
Wrap masking tape around the neck to seal it.
Blow through the straw to fill the balloon.
Pinch the straw shut with your fingers.
Put the straw boat into the pan.
Let go and watch the boat zoom!

Safety Tip:
Always supervise children around water and balloons. Broken balloon pieces are a choking hazard for younger children.

The Silent Bubble Walk

Steps:

Cut two wide strips of bubble wrap using your scissors.
Wrap one strip gently around each of your child’s shins.
Secure the wrap with a small piece of masking tape.
Ensure the tape is not tight against the skin.
Use masking tape to mark a zigzag path on the floor.
Ask your child to walk the path in total silence.
The goal is to reach the finish line without popping any bubbles!

Safety Tip:
Always supervise your child to ensure the tape is not too tight and the plastic is handled safely.

Baking Cup Hidden Bubble Pops

Steps:

Glue five baking cups onto a flat piece of cardboard.
Cut five small circles of bubble wrap to fit inside the cups.
Place a small dab of glue at the bottom of each cup.
Press the bubble wrap circles firmly into the glue.
Ask your child to use only their pointer finger to pop the bubbles.
Challenge them to use their other hand to hold the cardboard steady.

Safety Tip:
Always supervise your child to ensure they do not put small pieces of bubble wrap in their mouth.