Hey there! Today, I want to tell you about something that can help people with autism.
It’s called a body sock.
Picture yourself wrapped up like a burrito, but instead of a tortilla, you’re snuggled in a soft, stretchy sock.
It might seem silly, but for lots of kids and grown-ups with autism, it can be super helpful.
KEY TAKEAWAY
What is a body sock for autism?
It is a sensory tool that help children archive calming state.
Did you know? According to the CDC (1), autism spectrum disorder has been diagnosed in about 1 in 44 children.
Before continuing, let’s hear from Joshua, a special needs parent
Joshua is a special needs parent who wanted to find a way to help his son feel more comfortable in his own skin.
His son, who has autism, struggled with sensory processing and often felt overwhelmed.
One day, Joshua heard about something called a “body sock” and decided to give it a try.
When his son put on the body sock, he said it felt like a cozy hug all around his body.
He felt safe and secure, and it helped him to calm down when he was feeling overwhelmed.
Joshua was so happy to see his son feeling more comfortable and in control, and they continued to use the body sock in their sessions.
Now, Joshua and his son use the body sock whenever they need some extra sensory input or a calming space like sensory room.
After hearing Joshua’s story, how do you feel?
Curious about body sensory socks? Then let’s start…
Sensory Body Socks
What is a Body Sock for Autism and How Does it Work?
Let’s talk about something that can help children with autism – it’s called a body sock! It is like a cozy, stretchy sack that you can wear over your whole body.
It feels like a big, warm hug that covers you all over!
They can help kids with autism feel calm and more aware of their bodies.
Studies show that deep pressure, like what it provides, can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep for kids with autism.
But body socks aren’t just for kids with autism – they can also help children with sensory processing disorders, ADHD, or anxiety.
They’re great for kids who need extra sensory input to help them feel calm and focused.
Like anything, there are good and bad things to think about when using a body sock.
What does an expert say about body sock?
For children that are sensory seekers who crave sensory input, particularly proprioceptive and vestibular input, the sensory body sock is a fun and different way to get this input. Sensory sock are very stretchy and provide resistance when you move in them. This provides deep pressure stimulation through the joints (proprioceptive input) and when you move around in different ways, this provides the vestibular input (balance and movement in space).
Heather Greutman, author of growinghandsonkids.com (2)
Here are a few things to consider:
Good things:
- Helps kids feel calm
- Can help with body awareness and coordination
- Can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep
Not-so-good things:
- Some kids might not like how the fabric feels
- Can be tricky to put on and take off
- Doesn’t replace other types of therapy
Overall, as sensory products, they can be really helpful for kids who need some deep pressure input.
If you think a body sock might be helpful for you or your child, talk to a pediatric occupational therapist or healthcare provider.
Remember, it is just one tool – there are many other ways to help kids with autism feel their best!
Here’s the next thing you should know!
Benefits of Using a Sensory Body Sock for Autism
As someone who helps kids with autism, I know that a sensory sock can be a helpful tool.
It’s like a stretchy and cozy cocoon that covers your whole body! Here are some good things that can happen when kids use a body sock:
- Feels Calming
A body sock gives a special kind of pressure that can be calming for kids with autism who might have trouble feeling relaxed.
The fabric gives a big hug that covers the whole body, making kids feel safe and comfortable.
Scientists found out that the pressure from a body sock can also help reduce anxiety and improve sleep for kids with autism.
- Better Coordination
Wearing a body sock can help kids with autism understand how their body moves in space.
This can help them have better balance and control when they move around.
A body sock also helps kids learn proprioception, which is where their body is in a place.
- Works Anywhere
Kids can use a body sock anywhere! At home, at therapy sessions, or even in the classroom.
It’s a great way for kids with autism to get the right kind of input they need to feel calm and focused.
- Fun Playtime
Using a body sock is a great way for kids to explore their bodies and play or even create some obstacle course.
Kids can wiggle, roll, and stretch inside the body sock.
They can even do some yoga poses, like downward dog pose or tree pose!
It’s a great way for them to get moving and have fun!
Even though using a body sock is helpful, there are some things to keep in mind:
- Not for Everyone
While they are great for many kids with autism, some kids might not like the feeling of the fabric on their skin.
It’s important to listen to your child and see if it’s something they want to do.
- Not a Cure
Using a body sock isn’t the only solution to all of the symptoms of autism.
It’s important to use a body sock along with other therapies and treatments to help your child the best.
Overall, using a body sock can be an important tool for kids with autism who need help with their sensory input to feel calm.
If you want to try it with your child, talk to a therapist or healthcare provider to see if it’s the right choice for them.
What’s next?
Different Types of Sensory Body Socks Beneficial for Kids
If you’re looking for a body sock for your child with autism, there are a few different types to choose from.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common ones:
- Lycra Body Socks
These body socks are made of a stretchy material and can help your child become more aware of their body and how it moves.
They’re also great for improving coordination and balance.
- Weighted Body Socks
These socks are like Lycra body socks, but with extra weight to help your child feel calmer and more relaxed.
- Inflatable Body Socks
These socks are made of inflatable material and can be adjusted to provide just the right amount of pressure.
They’re perfect for children who like to change things up.
- Sensory Integration Body Socks
These socks are made with different textures and fabrics to provide your child with a variety of sensory experiences.
They’re great for kids who struggle with sensory issues.
When picking a body sock, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:
- Comfort and Fit
Make sure the body sox fits your child well and is comfortable to wear.
You don’t want it to be too tight or too loose.
- Sensory Preferences
Think about what your child likes when it comes to touch and pressure.
Some kids like snug socks, while others prefer something heavier like weighted blankets.
- Safety
Choose a sock that is safe and made with non-toxic, flame-resistant materials.
Remember, each child is different, so it’s important to find a body sock that works for your child’s unique needs.
If you’re not sure which one to pick, ask a healthcare provider or occupational therapist for advice.
Keep reading…
Tips for Using It for Autism Safely and Effectively in Sensory Activities
If you’re interested in using a body sock for autism in occupational therapy, I have some tips to help you do it safely and effectively.
First things first, always have a grown-up around to watch over you when you’re using the body sock.
It’s important to be safe and avoid getting hurt.
Also, make sure the body sock fits you well.
If it’s too small, it might not feel good or be too tight, but if it’s too big, you might not get the right amount of sensory input.
You can try using it in a room with lots of space and nothing dangerous around like furniture or sharp things.
It’s also a good idea to take a break now and then and not spend too much time in the body sock.
It’s a great sensory tool that can improve fine motor planning skills, but it’s important to give your body a rest too.
If you have any questions or concerns, you can talk to a grown-up or a healthcare professional like a therapist. More on what a body sock used for.
And then…
How to Incorporate a Body Sock for Your Child into Therapy
If you’re interested in using a body sock for therapy, I’m here to help you out! As someone who works with kids with autism, I know how great body socks can be.
Here are some tips to help you use one in therapy:
- Take it Slow: If it’s your first time using a body sock, don’t rush into it. Let your child take their time to get used to it and feel comfortable with it.
- Have Fun with Sensory Activities: You can use a body sock to do fun activities that involve different textures and weights. For example, you could put things with different textures like rice or beans in a bag and have your child try to guess what’s inside by feeling it through the body sock.
- Use it as a Calm Space: A body sock can also be a good space for calming down. Encourage your child to take deep breaths and think about the pressure of the sock around them. This can help them feel more in control and manage their emotions or even developing fine motor skills.
- Work on Moving Around: Using a body sock is a great way to practice moving around in different ways. You can have your child crawl, roll, or spin in the sock to help with balance, coordination, and knowing where their body is in space.
Remember, every child is different and may need different things when using a body sock in therapy.
Make sure to talk to your child’s therapist to make sure you’re using the sock safely and effectively.
Using a body sock for therapy can be a fun and helpful way for kids with autism to improve how they process sensory information, move around or improve gross motor skills, and manage their emotions.
Give it a try and see how it can work for you!
What’s the bottom line?
Conclusion
In the end, a body sock sensory is something that can help people with autism feel better and more in control of their bodies.
As someone who knows a lot about autism, I believe that using a body sock can have a lot of good effects.
It can help you feel more comfy and happy in your body, and it can make your therapy sessions even better.
So if you or someone you know has autism and has trouble with their senses, maybe give a body sock a try.
It could be just what you need to feel better in your skin!
References
- https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/data.html
- https://www.growinghandsonkids.com/ways-to-use-a-sensory-body-sock.html
Related Articles
- https://soul-socks.com/body-sock/
- https://soul-socks.com/product/body-socks/
- https://soul-socks.com/what-is-a-body-sock-used-for/
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.