Hey there! As an autism specialist, I often get asked if sensory socks are important for kids with sensory issues.
I can tell you from first-hand experience that it can be a helpful tool for lots of kids, but it’s not the right choice for everyone.
That’s why I’m writing this article, to help you figure out if sensory socks are important for your child with sensory issues.
KEY TAKEAWAY
Are sensory socks important?
As it is one of the tool that can help kids with sensory issues, then they are important.
Before continuing, let’s hear from Johanna, the special needs parent.
Johanna is a special needs parent who loves her child very much.
Her child has sensory issues and has trouble feeling calm and organized.
One day, Johanna heard about something called a body sock, which she thought could help her child.
She ordered one online and when it arrived, she helped her child put it on.
It was like a cozy, stretchy cocoon that made her child feel safe and comfortable.
Her child loved it so much that they started using it every day as part of their sensory routine.
Johanna was happy to see her child feeling more calm and organized with the help of the body sock.
Well, from the story above, you get the gist of sensory socks.
Did you know? According to the JAMA Network (1), one in 6 children have sensory processing disorders, which means that around 17% of kids have issues.
This number is significant, which is why…
Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or teacher, I want to give you the information you need to make the best decisions for your child.
So, let’s dive in!
About Deep Pressure Input
How Do Sensory Body Socks Help with Sensory Issues?
Have you ever heard of a body sock? It’s like a stretchy piece of fabric that gives your whole body a big hug! Body socks are super cool because they can help children and adults who have trouble with their senses.
Some people have a hard time understanding where their body is and moving around, but the pressure from the body sock can help them feel better.
Body socks work by giving your body something called “deep pressure.” That’s like a really strong, comforting hug that can make you feel calm and happy.
In occupational therapy sessions, this can be especially helpful for people who get really anxious or overwhelmed by their senses, resulted in improved sensory integration.
Playing with a sensory sock can be lots of fun, too! You can stretch and move around in all sorts of different ways.
It’s a great way to play with your senses and feel all the different parts of your body.
If you or someone you know has trouble with their senses, a body sock might be a great idea.
But it’s important to talk to someone called an occupational therapist to make sure it’s the right choice.
They can help you figure out the best way to use a body sock to help with things like body awareness and moving around.
So remember, a body sock is a fun way to give your body a big hug and play with your senses for better sensory integration.
Just make sure to talk to the professional therapist first!
After that…
Are Sensory Body Socks Beneficial for Kids?
Well, they can be really helpful for some kids who have trouble with their senses.
But, they might not be the best choice for everyone.
It’s important to think about what your child likes and what they need before buying a body sock.
Some kids might feel too tight or squished in a sock, while others might really like it.
And, some kids with certain sensory issues might not get the help they need from a body sock.
That’s why it’s a good idea to talk to someone called an occupational therapist who knows a lot about senses and sensory systems.
They can help you figure out if a body sock is right for your child and give you some ideas for how to use it.
If you do decide to try a body sock, make sure to choose a sock that fits well and feels comfortable.
And remember, body socks are just one way to help your child’s senses.
Other fun things like jumping on a trampoline or pushing heavy objects can also help.
What does an expert say about body socks?
Sensory body socks are stretchy sacks that your child’s whole body fits into.
They are particularly helpful for children who crave sensory input, but all kids can benefit from them.
The proprioceptive input and deep pressure they provide can help to calm children.
They are also a great tool for heavy work and gross motor skills development.
Gemma Clare, author of wonderbaby.org (2)
So, in the end, body socks can be fun and helpful for some kids, but not for all.
Talk to the professional therapist and choose a sock that fits right.
And keep trying other activities to help your child’s senses too!
Keep reading…
What Are Some Potential Drawbacks of Using Sensory Socks?
Sensory socks can be a great tool for kids with sensory issues, but they also have some potential drawbacks.
Some kids might find wearing socks uncomfortable, especially if they’re sensory body socks.
It’s important to have a grown-up watching when you’re using sensory socks, so you stay safe.
Some kids might not like sensory socks because they don’t like the way they feel on their skin.
It might also be hard for them to put the socks on if they have trouble with their fine motor skills.
And some kids might not like the deep pressure input from the socks.
Not all sensory socks are the same, so it’s important to check reviews and make sure you’re getting a good product.
Sensory socks are just one part of a larger plan to help with sensory issues.
You need to do lots of different sensory activities like moving around, touching different textures, and feeling deep pressure.
It’s important to talk to a grown-up who knows about sensory stuff, like a therapist, to help you make a plan that’s right for you.
What about…
How to Find the Right Size and Type of Sensory Sock?
If you’re looking for sensory socks for a child with autism or sensory issues, you’ll want to make sure you find the right size and type of sock.
To figure out the right size, you can measure the child’s height and weight, and some companies have extra-large sizes for bigger kids and grown-ups.
Some places also offer free shipping and easy returns so you can try the sock out first.
When it comes to picking the right type of sock, you’ll want to think about what the child needs.
For example, if they have trouble with big movements, they might like a sock that gives them pressure and helps with moving around.
Or if they’re sensitive to touch, they might want a sock that’s really soft or has no seams.
You also want to think about what they’ll be doing while they wear the sock – like yoga or obstacle courses.
Using sensory socks can really help young children with autism or sensory issues to improve motor planning skills.
The sock can help them feel more aware of their body and space, and make them feel more relaxed.
Just make sure to watch them while they wear the sock, and give them a quiet place to go if they start feeling too overwhelmed.
After that…
When Should You Talk to a Professional about Your Child’s Sensory Issues?
As someone who helps kids with autism, I know that every kid is different and grows at their own speed.
But if your child has trouble with moving their body or gets tired easily, they may have a sensory issue.
If your child likes lots of touch and movement, special tools like sensory sacks or vests can be really helpful.
These tools help push and pull on your child’s body to give them the sensory input they need.
It’s really important to talk to a grown-up who knows about sensory tools, like a therapist, before you use them.
They can make a plan that fits your child’s needs and show you how to use the tools safely in sensory play.
When you get a sensory sack or vest, make sure it fits your child well so they can be comfy and safe.
If you’re not sure which size or type of tool to get, ask a doctor or professional therapist for help.
It’s okay to ask for help if your child needs it.
Sensory issues can make it hard for kids to do lots of things, but getting help early can make a big difference.
So if you’re worried about your child’s body or senses, talk to someone who can help.
More on are sensory socks dangerous.
What’s the sum up?
Conclusion
To sum up, sensory socks can help kids who have trouble with sensory stuff, but it’s not the only thing that can help.
You need to talk to a doctor or other health helper before you try them.
And remember that sensory socks aren’t the only way to get better.
They’re just one way to help your body feel more okay.
The most important thing is to find what works best for your child and give them the help they need to be their best.
So, whether you try out sensory socks or other toys or tools, always listen to your child and do what’s best for them.
References
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/2707900#:~:text=One%20in%206%20children%20have,just%20to%20name%20a%20few.
- https://www.wonderbaby.org/articles/body-sock-activities
Related Articles
- https://soul-socks.com/sensory-socks/
- https://soul-socks.com/are-sensory-socks-dangerous/
- https://soul-socks.com/product/body-socks/
I am a highly experienced and dedicated special needs educator with a passion for helping special needs children reach their full potential. With over 10 years of experience in the field, I hold a Masters in Special Education and am a sought-after expert in the field.
In addition to my work as a special needs educator, I also actively write for Soul-Socks.com, a website dedicated to discussing the benefits of sensor body socks. Her articles are insightful and informative, providing readers with valuable information about how sensory experience can help improve the lives of children with special needs.
In my spare time, I enjoy volunteering with local organizations that support special needs children and their families. He is also an avid reader and enjoys spending time with his family and friends.