Tag: Kids

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!

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

On By justmymomsenseIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

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!

World Mental Health Day

On By justmymomsenseIn Anxiety, Mental Health2 Comments

The overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. The Day provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide. – World Health Organization

There is no shame in taking care of your mental health. There is no shame in admitting you need help to take care of your mental health. There is no shame in talking to others about your mental health.

I recognize that in 2023 there is still a stigma when in comes to discussing mental health. I realize there is still a stigma when people talk about going to therapy. However, I am thankful that the stigma seems to be diminishing as each year passes. As it should, right?

It’s hard to talk about sensory difficulties without talking about anxiety. They go hand in hand and can feed off each other easily. Providing your children with the right tools to help them overcome any of their challenges as early as possible can make such a difference. Whether that is speech therapy, occupational therapy, talk therapy, play therapy, while also working with them at home, it can all change how you and your child communicate and get through the day to day.

As a mom, talking to another parent that may be reading this, please know that taking care of your mental health is so important. It’s great to have a support system around you and some are lucky to have that. Whether you do or you don’t, it’s ok to also ask for additional help. Talking to a therapist, meditation, and working on yourself can do wonders for your kids. If you are not regulated, they won’t be either. Being a parent is tough, add having a child with anxiety, sensory difficulties, health issues or any other challenges and being a parent just got tougher. Please take care of yourselves as well.

During World Mental Health Day, I wish for kindness and compassion for all of us. I wish for everyone to feel peace and happiness. For those that aren’t feeling that way, please know it’s ok to ask for help.

Helpful Links:

MentalHealth.org

MentalHealth.org.uk

Star Institute

Psychology Today

The Importance of Play

On By justmymomsenseIn Parent Life, school2 Comments

If you’re a parent than you know that playing is one of the most important things children can do. There are so many benefits and it’s so beneficial to your child’s developement.

Once the school year begins and extracurricular activities ramp up, sometimes it’s hard to make time to just play. It’s easy to get caught up in the routine, the chores, going from one activity to the next, working and everything else parents have going on throughout their day.

It’s important to stop and play. Maybe not everyday, but as often as possible. We’re still at an age range where we can do playdates. We have friends we’ve made over the past couple of years that we can call to meet up with at a park, playground, library, bowling, or just hang at one of our houses. The kids are able to be in a comfortable place with some freedom and the ability to interact with each other. They’re able to learn from each other and work on communicating more effectively. The most important thing they’re able to do is have fun in a non-structured environment.

As parents, my husband and I also work to make sure we’re playing as a family. Sometimes we walk up to a nearby school and play Basketball, Box Ball, Wiffle Ball, help them across monkey bars, or just race each other across the field. I won’t tell you who normally wins those races…

Again, I know how much the daily grind can suck you in and you start to rely a little more on school for playing and socialization. However, doing those things outside of school is just as important. I try to be aware of it so that when I feel like it’s been a long week or a busy weekend where we were gogogo, I try to make sure we have that time to stop and play.

Added bonus: it’s just as beneficial to parents!

Want to learn more about the benefits of play? Check out some of these articles:

Why Playing Is So Effecting In Your Kids’ Developement

10 Things Every Parent Should Know About Play

Want Resilient and Well-Adjusted Kids? Let Them Play