ARK's Blog

Make your own "piggy bank!"  This DIY fine motor activity involves just two easy steps: 1.  Cut a slit into the lid of any old food container (this is an almond can). 2.  Use poker chips, play money, or real money to push into the bank. . . Unlike store-bought piggy banks that have a wide slot for coins, the thin slit here provides resistance when you push items throu …

We often talk about oral sensitivities and how that can lead to texture aversions, drooling problems, mouth stuffing, and more.  But sensory tactile defensiveness isn't always isolated in the mouth.  Sometimes it's global, in which case you may need to start normalizing sensitivities outside of the mouth first, gradually working towards texture acceptance in the mouth. When one o …

Courtesy of creative mom Ashley on Instagram, this do-it-yourself weighted snake is an easy and fun way to calm sensory seekers through deep pressure.  Much like vestibular movement, oral motor input, and sensory play, weight can be very effective in helping sensory kids focus, organize, and self-regulate. . .  Directions: 1.  Find a stuffed animal that your child lik …

For some kids, gloves can be scary.  The rubbery feel, the unfamiliar smell and taste, the strange look (where did your hands go?!), and the squishy sound they make - these are all possible triggers for a sensory overload. I have some kids who absolutely won't allow me to go near them with gloves.  So I just have to wash my hands thoroughly before and after therapy.  And that's …