How I Set Up Sensory Bins For My Kids

On By justmymomsenseIn Sensory Resources1 Comment

We were in need of a Sensory Bin overhaul!

Our old sensory bin was out of sorts and were no longer engaging my 10 and 7 year olds. I was talking with a therapist who mentioned focusing on things you can touch, taste, smell, see and hear. That’s all I needed to hear! Although this makes sense and our old bins somewhat did this, I was able to refocus on the bins in a different way instead of just throwing random toys into it.

Sensory bins have become one of our go-to tools, offering endless opportunities for exploration, creativity, and emotional regulation. In this post, I’ll share the items we added to our new sensory bins.

What is a Sensory Bin?

Before we dive into the items I included, let’s quickly review what a sensory bin is. Simply put, a sensory bin is a container filled with materials that encourage hands-on exploration. These bins are designed to stimulate a child’s senses—sight, touch, smell, and sometimes even hearing—through various textures, colors, and items. Sensory bins are great for calming anxious kids, building fine motor skills, and promoting imaginative play. These bins can vary based on age and there are plenty of age appropriate items out there based on your child’s individual needs.

Our Sensory Bin Items

*All of these items can be found on the “These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things” page.*

Here is how we simplified our Sensory Bins:

1. Calming Strips (image taken from Amazon):

These are so cool! Calming strips are a fantastic tool designed to help children (and adults) self-regulate during moments of stress, anxiety, or overstimulation. These strips are a sensory-friendly solution, providing a textured surface that offers a calming tactile experience when touched or rubbed.

2. Fidget Toy Sensory Stone

I love how these stones feel! The Sensory Stone is a calming tool designed to provide immediate tactile feedback to help manage stress, anxiety, and sensory overload. Ideal for children and adults, this smooth, textured stone offers a soothing sensory experience when held and rubbed. It’s the perfect size to carry in your pocket, making it a discreet tool for on-the-go stress relief, whether at school, work, or home.

The sensory stone promotes mindfulness and grounding by providing a simple, calming action that helps users refocus their energy and reduce tension.

3. Zollipops Lollipops

I wanted to add something for taste with plenty of flavor but no dyes, which wasn’t easy to find. I came across Zollipops on Amazon which has been a great lollipop alternative.

Oral sensory input can help a person stay grounded. The repetitive, calming action of sucking on the lollipop can redirect attention from overwhelming thoughts or feelings, allowing the person to focus on the physical sensation of the treat. For those who experience overstimulation, especially in sensory-sensitive environments (like noisy or crowded spaces), the act of focusing on the sensation of the lollipop can serve as a grounding tool. It offers a quiet, non-intrusive way to redirect attention to a more controlled, manageable sensory experience, helping to reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.

4. Portable Sound Machine

A portable sound machine can be a valuable addition to a sensory bin, enhancing the sensory experience and providing a calming, immersive environment. This sound machine has varying sounds, such as white noise, nature sounds (rain, ocean waves, birds chirping) and gentle music, which can help create a relaxing atmosphere. These sounds can help mask background noises that may be distracting or overstimulating and help reduce stress and anxiety.

5. Mindfulness Stickers

The kids have used their mindfulness stickers to decorate their bins. These stickers are often designed with calming images, patterns, or inspirational phrases that encourage self-reflection, relaxation, and emotional regulation. By incorporating mindfulness stickers into a sensory bin, you can create an interactive, soothing, and engaging environment for children (and adults) to practice mindfulness, focus, and grounding. Some of the stickers help to practice proper breathing, others help with identifying emotions and remembering what we all have control over and what we don’t.

6. Lavendar for Smell

I already had these small jars and decided to repurpose them for the sensory bins. I added three cotton balls with a bit of lavender oil so it wasn’t too overpowering but they could also easily open the jar and smell enough of the scent. Lavender is widely known for its soothing properties, making it a go-to natural remedy for promoting relaxation and calmness.

7. Old fashioned pad and pen!

Drawing pictures and writing stories or random thoughts can all be a great way to ground yourself when feeling anxious. I found the pads and pens at Dollar Tree and the kids decorated their notepads with calming strips.

Customize Your Bin With What Works For You

Every child is unique, and sensory bins can be easily customized to suit your child’s preferences and developmental needs. My kids have already added various toys to their bins and I’m sure they will change over time. Whether you’re creating a calming space or encouraging imaginative play, these bins can provide endless benefits for your kids. What’s in your sensory bin? Share your favorite items in the comments below!

Let’s Talk About Sensory Processing Awareness Month

On By justmymomsenseIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

Although I’m a bit late with this year’s post, we are still in October which means it’s Sensory Processing Awareness Month!

If you’ve spent any time on my blog, you know sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a topic close to my heart. It’s something that shapes our daily lives, from the way we plan our days to how we navigate public spaces, and even how we handle the unexpected.

What is Sensory Processing Disorder?

For those who may not be familiar, Sensory Processing Disorder is a condition where the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information that comes in through the senses. Imagine living in a world where bright lights feel like they’re burning your skin, loud noises pierce your ears like sirens, or even a hug feels overwhelming. That’s what it’s like for many individuals with SPD.

But here’s the thing—everyone experiences sensory input differently, so SPD manifests in many different ways. Some may be hypersensitive, others may seek out sensory input, and some fluctuate between both extremes.

Our Journey with SPD

Our family’s journey with SPD hasn’t been based on one specific thing. It was many pieces of a puzzle that when put together meant that being bothered by a tag on a shirt wasn’t about the specific tag. We’ve learned that sensory overload isn’t just about loud noises or bright lights—it can be the little things, too. Things that might seem inconsequential to someone without SPD. For example, socks with seams or a jacket that feels “wrong” can make or break a day. These are the types of things that many people don’t even think about, but for those with SPD, they can feel monumental. It was all part of a bigger picture. Learning more about sensory input, how the brain works and how everyday things that we take for granted can be so challenging for those with sensory processing difficulties, has shaped the way we look at our everyday life.

Tips for Navigating SPD

Resources like The Star Institute, Sensory Spectacle, reading books or following social media accounts like Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support has helped in expanding our understanding.

I have a page on this blog with a few of my favorite things including book recommendations, toys and more!

I wanted to take a moment to share a few things that have helped us manage day-to-day life with SPD. Of course, every child is different, but these strategies have been game-changers for us:

  1. Create a Sensory-Friendly Space: This doesn’t have to be fancy, but having a designated area where your child can retreat to when feeling overwhelmed can be so helpful.
  2. Incorporate Sensory Activities: Sensory play has become a regular part of our routine. Whether it’s a bin of rice for tactile exploration, deep pressure activities like jumping on a trampoline, or using noise-cancelling headphones, finding what works for your child is key.
  3. Plan Ahead: We try to be proactive instead of reactive. When heading out for potentially overwhelming activities, we prepare by bringing sensory tools (like fidget toys or a favorite texture) and discussing ahead of time what to expect.
  4. Communicate Openly with Others: I’ve learned the importance of advocating for my child. Explaining SPD to teachers and family members, has helped them understand why certain accommodations or reactions are necessary. We’ve had to embrace being the voice for our child until they can speak for themselves.

Every person with SPD experiences the world uniquely, and that deserves recognition.

I hope that by sharing our experiences, I can help shed some light on what it’s like to navigate life with sensory processing disorder and offer a bit of encouragement to other parents who may be feeling overwhelmed or alone on this journey. We may not have all the answers, but we’re learning everyday.

Happy Sensory Processing Awareness Month!

Tech Life Inner Circle Launch

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Did you know the Tech Life Inner Circle Membership, created by Joan Green, with over 35 years of expertise, offers a supportive community for those seeking to enhance their technological proficiency? Members gain access to live office hours, tech challenges, and webinars that focus on innovative strategies for improving organization, productivity, communication, and social engagement. Joan regularly invites experts in the fields of accessibility, aging, special needs, learning, and productivity to provide diverse perspectives and specialized knowledge. This membership offers tools and insights for effectively integrating technology into daily life, catering to both personal and professional growth. It’s an ideal resource for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of modern technology with expert guidance.

This program is ideal for:

  • Parents: Gain tech skills that not only benefit you but also help you support your children’s educational and developmental needs.
  • Lifelong Learners: Stay connected and proficient in an increasingly digital world, reducing isolation and engaging actively with modern technology.
  • Educators and tutors: Improve your ability to incorporate technology into learning environments, making education more accessible and engaging for all students.
  • Executive Functioning Coaches: Enhance your toolkit with digital tools that support your clients’ needs for organization, planning, and task completion.
  • Speech-Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, and Educational Therapists: Build your confidence in integrating modern tech solutions to support individuals with ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, executive dysfunction, attention, cognitive, communication, and other challenges.
  • Senior Care Providers: Equip yourself with knowledge and tools to improve the engagement and independence of older adults in your care.
  • Neuropsychologists,  Vocational Rehab Specialists, Disability/ Accessibility Support Specialists, and Educational Consultants: Discover cutting-edge technologies that can refine your recommendations, particularly for students  and adults with learning and cognitive difficulties.
  • Caregivers of Adults with Developmental Disabilities: Learn about assistive technologies that can help increase independence and self-sufficiency for those you care for.
  • Anyone Seeking Less Stress and More Engagement and Productivity: Explore how everyday tech can simplify tasks, manage time better, and enhance overall quality of life.
  • Professionals in Transition: Ideal for individuals shifting careers or entering new life stages who need to upskill quickly and efficiently in technology.

Click here to learn more and to join the Tech Life Inner Circle with Joan Green!

Anxiety in Kids

On By justmymomsenseIn Anxiety, Mental Health, Sensory Resources2 Comments

Anxiety is a very real thing.

If you grew up in the 80s and 90s (or earlier) like I did, then chances are anxiety wasn’t really discussed. When I look back at my childhood, I see difficulties I had…which was actually anxiety.

I personally find it hard to believe that in 2024 people still try to deny anxiety as a real thing or, on the other side, act like it can be easily cured. There is no quick fix. It isn’t something someone can just get over. It’s something you need tools for. Something you have to work on constantly. This is true in both adults and kids.

Bill Hader made a video for Child Mind Institute a few years back to talk about his anxiety. He makes a great analogy how he now works with it instead of feeling attacked by it:

I’ve wrote a lot about sensory overload and how overwhelmed anyone can be in different settings which may cause them to react in different ways. Sensory and Anxiety go hand in hand.

Children with sensory processing disorder often benefit from routine and predictability, as it helps to reduce anxiety and provide a sense of stability. – The Out-of-Sync Child

I see a difference in my kids’ anxiety when I can stick to a routine and also ensure they’re getting some sort of physical activity everyday. But that’s hard to do right? Life happens. People get sick, events pop up, not everyday can be a perfect copy/paste. Along with many other parents, I try my best.

There are so many great resources, toys and more that can help with both sensory needs and support anxiety. Check out A Few Of My Favorite Things for book suggestions and more!

There is so much available now for those who are dealing with anxiety themselves or live with someone experiencing anxiety. Searching on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and of course Google can lead you to an entire world of learning more. Below are just two of many links (since I don’t want to overwhelm you) that speak to Sensory and Anxiety specifically:

Sensory Anxiety: Not Your Normal Anxiety from the Star Insittute

Why We May See Similar Signs of Anxiety or Hyperactivity for People with SPD (A Video)

Anxiety will look different for everyone. Keep learning, keep breathing and find the tools to support you and those your love.

A Sensory Education

On By justmymomsenseIn Parent Life1 Comment

I’ve learned so much since starting on a sensory journey with my son almost 7 years ago. I learned about sensory integration, sensory toys, sensory products, and more! But the biggest ongoing takeaway for me is how I go about parenting and peopleing.

That’s right, I said peopleing! Whether or not I’m using it correctly, it doesn’t matter because I’m sticking with it. In this sense, I’m talking about how I look at, talk to and understand people around me.

I know there are a lot of official terms going around for parenting and I don’t give my parenting style an official title. I just try to be respectful, provide them tools for the world and meet them where they are. For example:

  • When I see one of my kids (or even another child) react in a way that could be seen as negative (ie: a meltdown, yelling, having an attitude, etc.) I immediately think, I wonder what is actually going on with them. Did something happen at school that affected them that day? Are they nervous about something? Are they feeling pressure or anxiety from a situation? Are they feeling ok? In my 9 years as a parent, how a child is acting is never what it is at the surface. It’s always more. Although it may take time, getting them to understand their emotions and how important it is to talk about them is one of the most important tools I can try to give them.
  • I don’t expect my kids to act like adults. In my observations, I feel like a lot of adults expect so much of kids. Yet, when an adult is overreacting or have a negative emotion, what is the typical response? “Why are you acting like a 5 (2, 10, whatever) year old?” But these same adults may see a child experience a big emotion in public and think “they should know better by now.” No they shouldn’t. They’re learning. All day. Every day. They are going to make mistakes. They’re not going to know how to process everything all the time. Most adults don’t know how to do this either. As parents, it’s our job to guide them, teach them and talk to them. It’s ok to make a mistake, it’s ok to not know everything all the time, it’s ok to feel big emotions. The key is to continue to guide them as to how and where to express those emotions. Do they need to go outside for some air? Do they want to go to a quieter space to talk? This is similar to what I spoke about in a previous blog, ‘Sensory Overload.’ It’s important to recognize why we’re feeling the way we are and how to regulate ourselves. Kids need guidance on that.
  • I believe kids are people (cause they are). It’s strange to me when adults act like they’re not. In 2024 there are still those that feel children should be seen and not heard. Or that they should automatically respect every adult they encounter regardless of how they’re being treated. Or that they should put on a show and entertain adults. Kids aren’t there for anyone’s entertainment. If you’re looking to connect with a child, then get on their level. Ask them questions about things they like, what they’re doing at school, friends, etc.

How does that all apply to peopleing and sensory living? I use similar approaches to other people. If another adult acts in what could be seen as negatvie, I wonder what else could be going on with them. Is everyone in their family healthy? Are they struggling with their mental health? Did they just lose their job?

I do expect adults to act like adults, but recognize we’re all still learning. We’re all continuously growing, changing, and working on ourselves. It’s ok to have set backs, it’s ok to make mistakes. We’re all trying our best.

Other adults may not deserve respect and sometimes I find that out the hard way. I try to talk with people, learn about them and connect. Sometimes you click with people and sometimes you don’t. That’s all ok. Be kind, be patient, be yourself and let the chips fall where they may.

Sensory integration has taught me so much about how we all process the world around us and how it can be a silent struggle for so many everyday.

Sensory Overload

On By justmymomsenseIn Sensory Resources1 Comment

What does sensory overload look like for you? The truth is, sensory overload can look different for everyone.

According to Queensland Health:

Sensory overload is when your five senses—light, sound, taste, touch, and smell—take in more information that your brain can process. Overwhelmed by all the input, the brain responds as it would to a life-threatening situation and enters fight, flight, or freeze mode.

You can read more from Queensland Health by clicking here.

Understanding the why behind someone’s reaction to their environment is the key to helping them get through it. A child may seem like they’re acting out in a busy store, but in reality, the lights and sounds are just too much for them. An adult at a party may need to leave the room for a bit and get some fresh air. The music, smells of different food and all the people may feel incredibly overwhelming.

Recognizing your own or someone else’s symptoms when experiencing sensory overload can be so beneficial. You’re able to come up with a game plan, code words, bringing items like fidget toys or ear plugs; all the tools one may need in order to properly process the environment around them.

Once again I’m going to shout out Sensory Spectacle. Over on their site, they have downloadable resources under ‘Shop’ and some of which are free! Click here for a printable resource from Sensory Spectacle all about sensory overload. It contains helpful information and characteristics of sensory overload.

Our Favorite Vestibular Exercises

On By justmymomsenseIn Sensory ResourcesLeave a comment

Before I get into what some of our favorite Vestibular Exercises are, let’s review what the Vestibular Sense is.

According to NAPA:

The vestibular sense is small structures located in our inner ears which provide information to our brain about the position of our head, motion, and works with other sensory systems to tell us where our body is in space. 

When the vestibular system works correctly, the constant presence of gravity allows all our other sensory systems to work cohesively. The vestibular system contributes to our ability to balance, maintain an upright posture, and stabilize the head and body when moving. It has no effect on muscle strength which is also needed for postural control. – napacenter.org

Now we can into how the kiddos have fun while getting vestibular input!

First up, the Sensory Swing:

We have the Mesh Sensory Swing from Sensory Scout. The sensory swing is great because of the variety of ways it can be used. It can be a place to chill and read or it can be used building muscles by standing and swinging. Learn more about the benefits of swinging from Sensory Scout:

Next up we have an exercise puzzle mat!

I’m pretty sure I found these at the Target Dollar Spot, but we’ve had them for awhile so I’m not 100%. Each piece has a different exercise on it. We’ve combined them in a bin with dice. The kids will lay them out, roll the dice for the quantity or time they should do each exercise. It’s a great way to give them sensory input, get in some physical activity and have fun!

Finally, we have our trampoline!

When it doubt, jump it out! Our trampoline is in our backyard but having a smaller one for inside might be a good option as well. Jumping in the fresh air is always a great way to get some sensory input, work out frustrations and of course have lots of fun with a ton of laughter!

I do recognize that there are safety concerns when it comes to trampolines. Please be sure to set up proper precautions and supervise your child at all times.

These are just a few of our favorites but there’s so many options! We’ll have days where we’re rocking, climbing, dancing and more. Find what works best for you and your family!

For more on the Vestibular Sense:

NapaCenter.org

STAR Institute

Sensory Spectacle on YouTube

Visit Santa Online

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During the 2020 Holiday Season, I got to interview the one and only Santa Clause on the Dillo’s Diz Podcast. With still so much uncertainty surrounding us, it was a comfort to be speaking with someone so magical. Aside from the huge honor of interviewing him, we were also chatting about VisitSantaOnline.com, where families could book a zoom call with the big guy himself!

We had been to visit Santa in person in previous years when the kids were in the baby/toddler stage. Since some time had passed, they were feeling a little nervous about seeing him in real life. As we all know, 2020 was a time where not many things were happening in person. The combination of these two factors had me running to this new way to connect with St. Nick!

The visit was amazing! Santa connected with both kids, who were 3 and 6 at the time, and brought Christmas magic to life. He was able to chat with them about some of their wishes for Christmas, school and more. 3 years later, they have continued to talk about it and we decided to book another call with Santa.

With 5 days left until Christmas, we appreciated Santa finding time out of his busy schedule to once again chat with us. Now at 9 and 6, the kids were once again star struck seeing him again. Another magical memory has been made.

If your child is a bit skiddish about meeting Santa in person, if a mall setting would be too overwhelming, or maybe scheduling an in person meeting is tough, I highly recommend checking out VisitSantaOnline.com. You get time to chat with Santa and a recording of the zoom call once it’s done. It’s a fantastic experience!

Thankful for the Christmas season, for watching magic through my kids’ eyes and for Santa as he creates memorable moments!

Holidays and Sensory Processing

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Holidays can be a stressful time for all of us. Some of that stress is fun and exciting, but for some people it can be completely overwhelming. Last year, I wrote about how my son asked the question “why is Christmas so overwhelming?” You can read that blog by clicking here.

Feeling comfortable and happy this time of year means creating a welcoming environment, especially for those with sensory processing difficulties. In the past, I’ve talked about the great resource that is Sensory Spectacle. Becky Lyddon has a podcast and recently talked about helpful tips around the holidays. I’m linking it here for those that are interested.