When we first learn about our senses we learn about smell, hearing, sight, taste, and touch. But our lives are impacted by more than just these 5 senses. We also have proprioception, vestibular sensation, and interoception. Some kiddos struggle with processing sensory information and it can impact their ability to participate in daily routines. Other kiddos are born without a way to understand or interpret certain sensory information. For each of these kiddos, we may be able to help support their ability to regulate their senses with a variety of toys. As with everything else, not every child will like every toy. It can be helpful to spend time with an occupational, physical, or speech therapist who may be able to help observe your kiddo and understand what sensations they may be seeking, what sensations they may shy away from and what opportunities we may be able to offer them to help them grow. Below is a few of our favorite or newer toys and equipment that may help your kiddo learn to regulate their sensory nervous system, increase proprioceptive awareness, enjoy vestibular stimulation, and allow for better activation and management of their balance and coordination systems.
Spinning chairs are an incredible tool for stimulating the vestibular system—the sense responsible for balance and spatial orientation. For kiddos who crave movement, controlled spinning can help them feel centered and calm. These chairs allow children to explore how their body moves through space in a safe and predictable way. Some children may find that slow, gentle spins help them relax, while others benefit from short bursts of movement to “wake up” their bodies and improve focus. Always supervise spinning play and help your child learn when their body feels “just right”—not too dizzy or overstimulated.
Sensory canoes, sometimes called squeeze pods, and body socks offer deep pressure input that helps activate the proprioceptive system. This sense helps children understand where their body is in space and how much force to use when moving. When a child crawls into a sensory canoe, the gentle compression can feel like a comforting hug—helping to calm anxiety, improve body awareness, and increase attention. They’re perfect for quiet time, reading, or just taking a break after lots of activity. Many children find that spending a few minutes in a sensory canoe can help them reset and refocus during their day.
Weighted blankets have become a popular choice for children and adults alike, and for good reason! The gentle, evenly distributed weight provides calming deep pressure input that can soothe the nervous system. These can be especially helpful when managing a challenging situation such as doctor’s appointments or dysregulation. For kiddos who struggle with falling asleep, staying focused, or managing big emotions, a weighted item can provide comfort and help signal to the body that it’s time to rest. It’s important to choose the right weight—typically about 10% of your child’s body weight—and to consult with a therapist or healthcare provider to ensure safety and proper use.
Vibration can be a powerful sensory input that supports both alerting and calming responses, depending on the child’s needs. Vibrating pillows, stuffed animals, oral motor stimulation kits or handheld toys can help children who need extra sensory input to stay engaged or those who benefit from deep, rhythmic sensations to relax. For children with low muscle tone or reduced body awareness, vibration can also help “wake up” the muscles and improve attention to body parts during play or movement activities. These toys are a great addition to a sensory corner or used before transitions to help prepare the body and mind.
Swings are one of the most beloved pieces of sensory equipment—and for good reason! Swinging engages the vestibular system and provides soothing, rhythmic motion that can calm or energize a child, depending on how it’s used. There are many types of swings—platform swings, cuddle swings, hammock swings—each offering different sensations. Swings can be mounted in a variety of ways, such as with a secure eye bolt in a ceiling beam, a doorway bar, or a free-standing indoor or outdoor frame, allowing families to find the setup that fits their space and safety needs. Slow, gentle swinging can help children relax and improve self-regulation, while faster or more varied swinging motions can build balance, coordination, and core strength. Incorporating swinging into your child’s daily routine can be both fun and beneficial for overall sensory development.
Wobble cushions—sometimes called balance discs—are fantastic for promoting both focus and core stability. When a child sits or stands on a wobble cushion, their body naturally makes small adjustments to stay balanced. This gentle, constant movement activates the core muscles, improves posture, and helps keep the body alert and engaged. For kiddos who have trouble sitting still during schoolwork or mealtime, a wobble cushion can provide the right amount of movement to help them concentrate without needing to leave their seat. It also provides subtle vestibular and proprioceptive input, making it a versatile and easy-to-use sensory tool for home or classroom environments.
Every child’s sensory needs are unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Exploring different sensory toys and activities can be a joyful process of discovery—for both you and your child. When paired with guidance from therapists and caregivers, these tools can help kiddos build confidence, self-regulation, and comfort in their bodies. Through play, we can nurture not only sensory skills but also connection, calm, and creativity.
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