Blooming Early Years

Exploring the field of DIY sensory toys unlocks a vibrant world of textures, sounds, and colors, bringing about remarkable developmental benefits for children. DIY calming tools for children with sensory disorders will go a long way in helping children with disabilities.

Sensory play plays a very important role in early childhood development. It allows kids to discover their surroundings using their senses, including touch, vision, hearing, smell, and taste.

For children with sensory processing challenges or those who enjoy hands-on activities, homemade sensory toys offer an excellent way to captivate and stimulate their senses. The best part? These toys are cost-effective and simple to make right at home.

For young kids, particularly those navigating sensory difficulties linked to autism, these toys or tools offer more than just entertainment. They serve as valuable tools for interaction and exploration.

Let’s get hands-on and dive into the amazing DIY sensory toy ideas that are engaging and beneficial for kids of every age. We will also explore the best DIY calming tools for children with sensory disorders.

The Importance of DIY Calming Tools for Children with Sensory Disorders 

Sensory toys provide numerous advantages for children with disorders and disabilities, such as:

• Exploring Senses: Engaging the senses helps kids interpret and make sense of the world around them.
• Developing Fine Motor Skills: Crafting or handling small sensory toys boosts hand-eye coordination and improves dexterity.
• Sparking Creativity: Open-ended play with sensory toys inspires kids to create unique games and activities.
• Promoting Calmness and Focus: Sensory play can be soothing, aiding children in managing emotions and staying focused.

DIY Calming Tools for Children with Sensory Disorders

The following are the best-recommended DIY calming tools for children with sensory disorders:

1. Rice Sensory Bin

A rice sensory bin is a wonderful way to encourage sensory play by combining vibrant colors, textures, and exploration. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making one:

Supplies Required:

• White rice (amount depends on your container size)
• Food dye
• White vinegar
• A shallow, large container (such as an under-bed storage bin)
• Assorted tactile items like dried beans, small toys, and pasta shapes
• Optional: small cups, scoops, or tweezers for added fun

Steps to Create:

a. Dye the Rice:

1. Combine food dye with a small amount of vinegar for every cup of rice.
2. Place the rice in a zip-top bag, seal it, and shake until the rice is fully coated.
3. Spread the colored rice onto a tray and let it dry overnight.

b. Set Up the Bin:

1. Choose a wide, shallow bin for easy access during play.
2. Once the rice is dry, pour it into the bin.

c. Add Sensory Items:

• Incorporate small toys, pasta, beans, or other textured objects for variety.
• Consider the child’s interests to personalize the bin, such as cars, animal figurines, or bugs.

To contain any mess, place the bin on a tray or mat. After playtime, store the rice and toys in a sealed container to maintain cleanliness for future use.

Always supervise young children during play to ensure non-edible items are not ingested.

2. Homemade Playdough

Making playdough at home is a fantastic way to foster creativity and enhance sensory engagement. It’s simple, fun, and budget-friendly!

What You’ll Need:

• Flour
• Salt
• Hot water
• Cream of tartar or alum
• Cooking oil

Instructions:

a. Combine Ingredients:

1. In a medium-sized pan, add the flour, salt, cream of tartar (or alum), vegetable oil, and optional ingredients like food coloring or vanilla.
2. Heat the pan on medium, stirring the mixture continuously.

b. Cook the Dough:

1. Keep stirring as the mixture heats.
2. Within about five minutes, the dough will thicken and begin pulling away from the sides of the pan.
3. The play dough is ready when it forms a soft layer on the outside and no longer feels sticky.

c. Shape the Dough:

1. Remove the dough from heat and place it on a floured surface. Alternatively, use wax paper or a sheet pan to avoid mess.
2. Knead the dough by hand until it reaches the desired consistency.

d. Customize:

• Make a small well in the center of the dough to add food coloring or scents.
• If you’re worried about stains, wear gloves during this step.

Using tools like rolling pins and cookie cutters, children can refine motor skills while shaping letters, animals, or plants. Store the finished playdough in a sealed plastic bag or airtight container to keep it soft for future use.

3. Texture Exploration with Crayons

Crayons are not limited to coloring and drawing. They are excellent tools for texture rubbings, offering a fun sensory learning experience.

Steps to create texture rubbings:

1. Prepare your tools: Gather plain paper, crayons, and textured objects like coins, tree bark, fabrics, or intricate leaves.
2. Set up your workspace: Lay your paper flat on a surface and place the textured item beneath it. For smaller items like coins, secure them with tape if necessary.
3. Ready your crayons: Remove the paper wrapping from the crayons to use them more effectively for rubbing.
4. Create your rubbing: Hold the crayon sideways and rub it gently over the paper where the textured item is located. Use enough pressure to reveal the texture but avoid tearing the paper.
5. Experiment creatively: Let children try different crayon angles, pressures, and colors for varied results.

This activity enhances sensory perception as children feel the textures while seeing their designs appear on paper. Additionally, it boosts fine motor skills, which contribute to better handwriting and hand coordination.

By engaging in texture rubbings, kids can develop creativity, explore their environment, and appreciate the intricate details of nature, fostering cognitive growth and imagination.

4. Create a Sensory Bottle

Sensory bottles, also known as calm-down bottles, are clear containers filled with captivating materials that float and swirl in liquid. These bottles support visual tracking skills and promote relaxation.

What you’ll need:

• Durable plastic or glass bottles with clear, smooth surfaces and tight-fitting lids
• Water, baby oil or clear glue, glitter, sequins, food coloring, beads, and small waterproof toys

Steps to make a sensory bottle:

1. Prepare the bottle: Wash and dry it thoroughly. Opt for a smooth bottle to ensure visibility.
2. Fill the bottle: Add water until it’s halfway full, then pour in baby oil or clear glue to create a slow-moving effect.
3. Add colors and textures: Use food coloring to tint the liquid and sprinkle in glitter, sequins, or beads. Include small toys or objects with varying densities for added visual interest.
4. Seal it securely: Glue the bottle cap in place to avoid spills or tampering.
5. Shake and observe: Mix the contents by shaking the bottle and watch the fascinating movement of the materials.

Theme Ideas for Sensory Bottles:

• Ocean Bottle: Include blue-tinted water, sand, tiny shells, and fish-shaped beads for a seaside vibe.
• Rainbow Bottle: Arrange colorful beads and sequins in layers for a vibrant rainbow effect.
• Nature Bottle: Add small twigs, leaves, stones, and green glitter for a tranquil forest-inspired design.

Sensory bottles can serve multiple purposes throughout a child’s day. They provide a calming effect during quiet moments and can also capture attention during storytelling or lessons. In addition, they make excellent tools for teaching concepts like color, density, and movement.

5. DIY Stress Ball

Making DIY stress balls isn’t just a creative activity; it’s also a powerful tool for sensory engagement. Follow these steps to create your own.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Balloons (choose a variety of colors for extra visual interest)
• Filling options: rice, baking soda, and flour
• Funnel (to make filling easier)
• Optional: spoon or scoop

Instructions:

1. First, decide the desired texture of your stress ball. For a softer feel, use flour; for a grainy texture, choose rice; and for a finer, powdery texture, go with baking soda.
2. Stretch the balloon by slightly inflating and then deflating it.
3. Attach the balloon’s opening to the funnel and carefully add your chosen filler. Tap or shake the funnel gently to transfer the material. Continue until the balloon reaches the size of a tennis ball.
4. Remove the balloon from the funnel, squeeze out any air, and tie the neck securely to seal it.

Stress balls are excellent for children needing support with stress management. Squeezing them can help kids focus and stay calm in stressful situations. They’re also great for improving fine motor skills by strengthening hand and wrist muscles.

6. Homemade Slime

Slime is a fun, interactive way to explore sensory play while building fine motor abilities. Here’s how to make it.

Instructions:

1. Combine 1/2 cup of white glue with 1/2 cup of water in a bowl.
2. Add food coloring and stir well.
3. Gradually mix in liquid starch, a little at a time, until you achieve a stretchy, non-sticky consistency.

For safety, use non-toxic glue and a contact lens solution with boric acid, which serves as a slime activator. To enhance the sensory experience, you can include extra elements in your slime, such as glitter or beads.

If you’d like a calming effect, try adding essential oils, but ensure they’re skin-safe. Store your slime in an airtight container to keep it fresh for future use.

7. Sensory Boxes

Sensory boxes are engaging tools packed with diverse materials, allowing children to explore and boost sensory and cognitive abilities through hands-on play.

What You Need:

• A durable container, like a wooden box or a plastic storage bin.
• Smooth stones, pom-poms, small toys, feathers, beads, etc.
• Base materials such as shredded paper, beans, rice, or sand.
• Optional: Brightly colored scarves, scented oils, bells, or spices.

Steps to Create a Sensory Box:

1. Select a theme that aligns with your child’s preferences.
2. Fill the box with a base material, such as rice or sand.
3. Add sensory items of varying sizes, shapes, and textures, arranging them thoughtfully.
4. Include tools like scoops or tongs to help improve fine motor skills.

How to Adapt Sensory Boxes:

• Use consistent, smooth materials like rice or fine sand for kids sensitive to textures.
• Introduce reflective or brightly colored objects for enhanced visual stimulation.
• Add auditory elements like bells or other sound-producing items for children seeking auditory input.

Sensory boxes offer a structured and fun way for kids to explore their senses while developing fine motor, cognitive, and sensory integration skills. They can also be soothing for children with sensory processing challenges, providing a safe space for sensory exploration.

8. DIY Fidget Boards

Fidget boards are versatile sensory tools with various textures and movable parts designed to provide tactile, visual, and proprioceptive stimulation. They are excellent for sensory seekers who enjoy hands-on activities.

Materials Required:

• Textured fabrics, sandpaper, rubber mats, buttons, zippers, beads.
• Switches, wires, LEDs, or other small electronic components.
• Adhesives like glue or epoxy, and tools like nails, hammers, or sewing kits.
• A sturdy wooden base in a manageable size for easy handling.

How to Make a Fidget Board:

1. Smoothen the wooden board by sanding its edges.
2. Plan the layout of sensory items before attaching them, ensuring enough room for free hand movement.
3. Firmly attach beads, buttons, and zippers using glue, nails, or sewing. Ensure all parts are functional.
4. Combine textures by adding soft fabrics alongside coarse sandpaper to encourage sensory exploration.
5. Include movable parts like locks, dials, or switches for interactive engagement.

Customization Tips:

• Start with mild, smooth textures for kids who are sensitive to touch, gradually introducing more variety.
• Incorporate themes or elements reflecting the child’s interests to increase engagement.
• Design simpler boards for younger children and more complex ones for older kids to match their skill levels.

By interacting with the various components of a fidget board, children can improve their tactile sensitivity, fine motor skills, and sensory awareness in a fun and creative way.

7 Other DIY Sensory Toy Ideas You Can Make at Home

Below are 7 other ideas for DIY calming tools for children with sensory disorders:

1. Textured Exploration Boards: Attach a variety of textured materials such as fabric pieces, sandpaper, or bubble wrap to a solid board. Allow children to explore the different textures by feeling them with their hands.
2. DIY Sensory Bags: Fill resealable bags with hair gel, shaving cream, or water beads. Add food coloring or glitter for extra visual appeal. Seal the bags tightly, and tape them to a window or table to encourage tactile exploration.
3. Bean or Lentil Sensory Bins: Fill a large bin with beans or lentils. Conceal small toys or objects inside for a fun treasure hunt experience.
4. Water Sensory Table: Set up a shallow tub or table filled with water. Provide cups, scoops, funnels, and toys for endless splashing and pouring fun.
5. Homemade Light Box: Create a simple light box by placing battery-operated lights inside a transparent storage bin. Lay translucent objects on top for a captivating visual experience.
6. Sound-Making Shakers: Fill empty plastic containers with various materials like rice, beans, bells, or beads to create unique sound shakers.
7. Sensory Discovery Jars: Layer different colored sand, salt, or sugar inside a clear jar. Place small figures or toys in the jar to create a miniature scene

Sensory Development Support

Supporting sensory development is important for children with sensory disorders. It helps them explore their world confidently. By focusing on their unique needs, you can improve their growth and daily experiences.

First, create activities that engage multiple senses. For example, sensory bins with rice, beans, or sand can provide tactile stimulation. Add colorful objects to stimulate their sight and encourage exploration.

Next, introduce calming sensory tools. Weighted blankets, fidget toys, and stress balls can help children manage their emotions and provide soothing input for overwhelmed senses.

Additionally, encourage movement-based activities. Jumping on a trampoline or swinging provides vestibular input, which supports balance and coordination. These activities are fun and effective for sensory development.

Lastly, set up a sensory-friendly space at home. Use dim lighting, soft textures, and quiet sounds. This calming area can reduce sensory overload and offer a safe retreat.

By supporting sensory development, you help your child build confidence. These simple yet effective strategies for DIY calming tools for children with sensory disorders make a big difference in their journey!

Sensory play is vital for a child’s overall growth. Some skilled therapists offer tailored guidance and support to help your child succeed. They provide a variety of sensory integration activities and therapies designed to meet your child’s unique needs.

If you’re seeking simple and enjoyable ways to engage your child’s senses at home, try these DIY sensory toy ideas and the DIY calming tools for children with sensory disorders given in this article. Keep in mind that sensory play is not just a learning experience but also a delightful activity for both kids and parents.

Achieving Developmental Milestones with DIY Sensory Toys

DIY calming tools for children with sensory disorders are incredibly helpful for children with disabilities or disorders. They promote fine motor skills, sensory engagement, and cognitive growth through hands-on play. These activities create a space where kids can learn, imagine, and explore at their own speed.

The secret to successful sensory play is allowing kids to freely interact with their creations. It’s more than just keeping them busy – it’s about opening up a world of creativity and discovery.

FAQs for DIY Calming Tools for Children with Sensory Disorders

Q: How can I create homemade sensory toys?
A: Making sensory toys at home is simple using everyday materials. For example, you can dye rice or pasta using food coloring and vinegar for sensory bins. Add small objects for discovery. Another idea is making playdough by combining flour, water, salt, and cream of tartar. Use different colors, textures, and shapes to keep activities exciting and fun for sensory exploration.

Q: What are autism sensory toys?
A: Sensory toys for autism help children who experience sensory input differently. These toys can assist with managing sensory overload or under-sensitivity. Popular examples include fidget spinners, chewable necklaces, and textured balls. They provide calming textures, sounds, lights, or colors to support sensory needs.

Q: How do you make water sensory toys at home?
A: To make water-based sensory toys, fill a sealable bag or bottle with water. Add a few drops of food coloring and toss in glitter, beads, or small toys. For extra fun, include items that float and sink to create a mini underwater scene. Always make sure the container is securely sealed to avoid spills!

Q: How can I create a DIY sensory board?
A: To make a sensory board, attach various textured items like fabrics, buttons, and zippers to a sturdy base like cardboard or wood. Add movable or sound-making features, such as bells or sliders. Ensure everything is securely fixed to avoid choking risks. This offers children a variety of tactile and interactive experiences in one compact setup.