Sensory Tools in Our Montessori Home

As a Montessori parent, I know that kids learn about the world through their senses. They are taking everything in around them and using those sensory impressions to understand their bodies and the world we live in. 

As a mom of several neurodivergent children I also know that for some kids too much sensory input or too little sensory input (depending on the child, the sense, and the situation) can be really dysregulating. That is without the right amount of sensory input, children can have a hard time regulating their emotions, their body movements, and can feel a lot of discomfort. Even neurotypical children can benefit from sensory tools when seeking the right amount of sensory input from a specific situation. 

In order to make sure all of our children's sensory needs are met in our home and when we go out into the world, we have a variety of sensory tools. At home they live in a basket on a shelf so they can be accessed whenever they are needed. When we go out, we pack a small bag with the tools that we anticipate that we will need based on the given situation. 

With our sensory tools, I try to cover as many of the senses that I can. Often, I find sensory fidgets at Target dollar spot, gift shops, and local stores. But, many are also available online. Here are some of our favorites broken down by sense. 

Hearing: Smaller Headphones | Larger Headphones | Ear Plugs

Tactile: Teenie Nee Doh Balls | Textured Balls (nee doh | other favorite) | animal squishy | Mini Squishmallows

Proprioceptive: Monkey Noodles 

Visual: Dark Sunglasses | Tickit Sensory Bottle | Bubble Timer/Jars (penguins)

Mouthing: Chew Tubes | Arc Therapeutic Chewlery

The exact tools that will help calm your child are so individual. And, these tools are not limited to young children either - these are for all children. If you think some sensory tools might help your child with transitions, try a few out. Observe for clues on what they might need. Chewing on clothing - try a mouthing toy. Hands over their ears - try some headphones. Touching everything everywhere - a tactile fidget might help.