Homeschooling a child with sensory processing challenges requires creativity, patience, and a structured approach to sensory input. Two books that have been game-changers for our family are “The Out-of-Sync Child” and “The Out-of-Sync Child Has Fun” by Carol Stock Kranowitz. These books provide invaluable insights and 100+ fun, sensory-rich activities to help children develop coordination, focus, and emotional regulation.
Beyond these books, we’ve also incorporated heavy work activities and other sensory strategies from online resources to make our homeschool day more engaging and supportive. Here’s how we do it!
Sensory Activities in Our Homeschool
Morning Movement (Wake-Up & Regulate)
- Animal Walks – Bear walks, crab walks, frog jumps (Great for proprioception!)
- Wheelbarrow Walking – Holding my child’s legs while they walk on their hands
- Mini Trampoline Time – Jumping for 5-10 minutes to get out extra energy
- Yoga Poses – Simple stretches like downward dog & tree pose for balance
Mid-Morning Sensory Breaks (Fine Motor & Focus Boosters)
- Wall Push-Ups – Simple and effective deep pressure input
- Playdough & Putty Play – Strengthens hand muscles for handwriting
- Tactile Bins – Kinetic sand, rice, or water beads for sensory exploration
Lunch Break: Oral & Proprioceptive Input
- Chewy & Crunchy Snacks – Apples, pretzels, jerky for oral motor regulation
- Drinking from a Straw – Thick smoothies or water bottles with straws
Afternoon Heavy Work & Outdoor Play
- Carrying Heavy Objects – Moving books, pushing laundry baskets
- Tug-of-War – Great for upper body strength & teamwork
- Gardening – Digging, pulling weeds, and watering
- Swinging or Climbing – Monkey bars or tree climbing for vestibular input
Evening Wind-Down Activities (Calm & Self-Regulation)
- Weighted Blanket or Compression Sheets – Deep pressure for relaxation
- Gentle Massage or Brushing – Using sensory brushes for calming touch
- Listening to Calm Music or White Noise – Helps with sound sensitivity
Sensory Resources for Parents & Caregivers
Must-Read Books:
- The Out-of-Sync Child – Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder
- The Out-of-Sync Child Has Fun – 100+ Sensory Activities for Kids
- Raising a Sensory Smart Child – Practical strategies for everyday life
Helpful Websites for Sensory Diet Ideas:
- The OT Toolbox – Heavy work activity lists
- SensorySmarts.com – Sensory diet planning
- SPD Parent Support – Community & activity ideas
- PDASociety.org.uk – Support for PDA & sensory needs
Final Thoughts
Since incorporating these sensory strategies into our homeschool, we’ve noticed huge improvements in focus, emotional regulation, and overall engagement. The key is to stay flexible and observe what works best for your child!
Do you have favorite sensory activities that help your homeschool day? Drop them in the comments!
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