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OT Sensory Gym

How Kids with SPD Can Benefit from Time in an OT Sensory Gym

An OT sensory gym can make a big difference for a child who suffers from sensory processing disorder (SPD). If your child has sensory issues, whether they are over- or under-sensitive, then they and you both face a unique set of challenges. For kids with either type of SPD, sudden changes in their environment or routine can lead to tantrums that are difficult to contain. Understandably, it would be hard to behave appropriately under such distress. At Head 2 Toe Kids & Family Health, we understand SPD, and we are passionate about helping kids learn ways to overcome – not just cope. We strive to teach children the skills they need to lead a normal, healthy life that they enjoy. 

Benefits of a Sensory Gym for Kids

We offer a sensory gym for occupational therapy to give kids an outlet for energy and an introduction to a variety of sensory inputs in a fun, supervised setting. Sensory gyms offer a range of benefits, such as:

• Enhancing therapy. Sensory gyms can’t replace other kinds of therapy, but they can help maximise the effects. Sensory gyms can help reduce social stress, foster independence, and help your child acclimate to new stimuli. 
• Having fun. One of the most important things about sensory gym occupational therapy is that kids have fun while learning the skills they need to cope with SPD. Unlike play centres or schools, which can be overwhelming, a sensory gym allows children to learn and grow in an environment designed to help them feel comfortable and happy. They’ll see a room full of fun things to explore while you see developmental progress. 
• Bringing therapy home. You can use the concepts you see in a sensory gym to create your own play area at home tailored to your child’s needs. It’s easy to put together a sensory area at home using household items such as beanbags, fans, and bins filled with textured items such as sand or dried pasta. You can also get your child involved in the process to help ensure that they’ll get optimal enjoyment out of your gym. 

Key Questions to Ask Head 2 Toe About Sensory Gym Occupational Therapy

If you are considering trying a sensory gym for kids for your child with SPD, there are some important questions you may want to ask to be sure that you understand the treatment being offered and know how to prepare your child for their experience. A few good questions include:

• How long have you been working with kids?
• What age ranges do you usually work with?
• What kinds of diagnoses do you typically see?
• What kind of clinical experience do you have with SPD specifically?
• Where does treatment take place?

Knowing the answers to these questions can give you peace of mind that you are choosing the right occupational therapist for your child. 

About Head 2 Toe

At Head 2 Toe, we focus on providing occupational therapy service for kids dealing with a wide range of disorders and issues. We offer numerous services under one roof, including occupational therapy, speech therapy, psychology, physiotherapy, and more. We are an NDIS-registered provider offering beneficial services to children to enhance their well-being and quality of life. Contact us today to learn more or to book an appointment.

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