Summer Sensory Spaces!

Here's another activity I found online.  My very first thought, actually, with this was that it could also be used to make a "Summer Sensory Place".  For children who are on the spectrum and/or have sensory processing needs, you could include sensory toys/materials/items.  This would also be helpful for some of my little clients who have anxiety related needs.   Have fun!                    Jessica

Summer Quiet Place


This provides a place for children to go to be alone or to read a book.

Materials:

• A small plastic pool
• scissors
• blue tissue paper
• one or two small blow up rings used in swimming pools
• few good books (or for sensory - sensory materials/toys/items/etc

Description:

1. Put a small plastic swimming pool in a corner of the room.
2. Add several sheets of blue tissue paper and scissors. The children will love taking turns cutting the paper in small pieces. This will be your water. OR use satin type blue material/cloth
3. Add a couple of small swimming rings that you have filled with air.
4. Add a child or two and a few books.

*No problem at clean up time. They love picking up the "spilled water".

Comments:
This is a good quiet center when talking about water, swimming, oceans and lakes.

http://www.preschoolrainbow.org/preschool-summer.htm

Autism Shop

Oh wow - how fun! I found this great link to an online book and toy
store geared toward ASD. 

"Autismshop.com is the online home of the Autism Resource Network, a one-of-a-kind Book & Toy Store that is packed with merchandise and information for individuals with ASD and those who love, care for, and educate them. We are a Minnesota nonprofit corporation."


*  Free shipping on orders of $100
*  Online purchases welcome
*  Proceeds benefit autism research and support
*  Lots of great resources, tools, and info!
Copyright © Autism Resource Network
Some featured items include:
- books
- jewelry, cards
- time timers
- PECS, visuals
- music, speech, language
- sensory items, chewables
- fidgets
- games
- software

I really had fun poking around the site! Enjoy :)

Jessica

Sensing

I recently listened to a podcast on Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) featuring Lindsey Beil, M.A., OTR.L, an occupational therapist specializing in pediatrics.  The podcast that I viewed was a webinar entitled Author Lindsey Biel - "Raising a Sensory Smart Child."  In this webinar, Ms. Beil gives a great overview of SPD as well as the way our senses work typically and atypically. 

Ms. Beil has also cowritten a book, along with Nancy Peske, entitled Raising A Sensory Smart Child (Note:  I have this book listed on my astore as a recommended resource for your convenience).  Visit Ms. Beil's website http://www.sensorysmarts.com/ for additional information.

Jessica