Sensory Books

I'm working with a girl on the Autism spectrum. She has some sensory processing and modulation difficulties. She also has a difficult time with communication. Her mother and I worked together and came up with a list of 15 strategies that seem to help her stay calm, focused and cope with frustrations. I wanted to share how a way we organized them so that Katie is able access to them.

We made a "Sensory Book" for home. (Ideally we will make one specific for school too).

In order to make one for your child, you will need the following items.

1) 4x6 Photos of your child engaged in the particular sensory activity
 2) A photo album ($2 Target)
3) Note cards
4) Markers/pens
 

I made this book so that Katie can use it to help communicate her needs. Because she is able to read I made sure that the language used in the book was age appropriate. I used words and labels in pictures that she was familiar with. I started the book with a brief introduction for the adults in Katie's life.

As pictures get placed into the book, a label for the activity it given on the opposite page. Then a brief description of the activity is given for the adult.

I'd like to note, every individual child has their own specific sensory needs. These needs can change depending on the environment and mood of the child. Its very important that we don't generalize sensory activities and think just because they work for one child it means they will work for others. Consulting with an occupational therapist is always best so you can determine your child's specific sensory needs.

I also thought this book would be a great idea for the child who gives you that age old phrase "I'm bored".   You could call the book "Busy Book Ideas". Document pictures of fun things your child can be doing. If they can read, write a list of supplies needed for the activity or a description of how to play the game. Having the visual cue of the activity may motivate the child to engage.

Hope you found this helpful and/or inspiring!