Sensory diets

When we say diet we usually think of eating. However a sensory diet is not about food, it’s a personalised schedule of different sensory activities, both stimulating and grounding. These are usually spaced through the day and are designed to help children feel calm, focused, and regulated. The term was first coined by occupational therapist Patricia Wilbarger in the 90’s, and it refers to providing the “just right” amount of sensory input each individual needs to function at their best.

Why are sensory diets helpful?

Neurodivergent children can often process sensory information differently. Some may be hypersensitive meaning they are more easily overwhelmed by sights, sounds, textures, or movements. Whilst others may be hyposensitive meaning they seek out more intense sensory input). Regardless of which type a child is, when sensory needs aren’t met, this can lead to children struggling with focus, emotional regulation, behaviour, and even physical coordination. A sensory diet helps manage these challenges by proactively offering sensory activities that support self-regulation, reduce anxiety, and improves focus. They can also be used to increase tolerance of challenging sensory experiences.

How do sensory diets work?

A sensory diet is highly individualised. It is typically developed with the help of an occupational therapist, who assesses the child’s unique sensory needs, preferences, and triggers. The plan includes a variety of activities-some stimulating, some calming-scheduled at regular intervals or used as needed to help the child maintain an optimal level of alertness and comfort. They will often span across all the senses. (See our articles on the 8 senses here: 8 Senses and autism – Gems4health and 8 Senses and ADHD – Gems4health)

Examples of Sensory Diet Activities

Proprioceptive input: jumping on a trampoline, carrying heavy objects, pushing against a wall, deep-pressure hugs, or using a weighted blanket.

Vestibular input: swinging, spinning, rocking on a chair, or yoga poses.

Tactile input: playing with textured toys or putty, sand play, finger painting, or deep-pressure massage.

Auditory input: listening to calming music or playing instruments.

Visual input: light up or spinning toys, dot to dot puzzles.

Oral input: crunchy snacks, flavoured and sparkling drinks, chewable toys, or blowing bubbles.

Cross-sense activities: Sensory stepping stones or walkways, baking, dancing to music, pushing a wheelbarrow. These activities target multiple senses in one action.

You can work with your child to identify which activities help them feel more organised and grounded. It may also help to identify any activities that might be overwhelming or unhelpful.

Benefits of sensory diets

Improved Focus and Attention: Regular sensory input helps children with ADHD and autism stay engaged in tasks, especially in school or social settings.

Emotional Regulation: Sensory diets can help to reduce meltdowns, anxiety, and frustration by helping children self-regulate and manage stress.

Enhanced Motor Skills: Many sensory activities involve movement, which can improve coordination, body awareness and motor skills.

Better Transitions: Scheduled sensory breaks can make transitions between activities or environments smoother and less stressful. Including in in a written or visual schedule can help with internal planning.

Increased Independence: Over time, children can learn to recognise their own sensory needs and use strategies independently.

Increased sensory tolerance: For some children sensory diets can be help increase tolerance around challenges sensory input.

Tips

Work with Professionals: Whenever possible, collaborate with an occupational therapist experienced in sensory integration to design and adjust your child’s sensory diet. Whilst many activities do not require any equipment, they may also be able to provide any equipment needed.

Observe and Adapt: Keep track of your child’s responses to different activities and environments. Sensory needs can change throughout the day and over time.

Consistency Matters: Incorporate sensory activities into your child’s daily routine, both at home and school, for best results.

Be Proactive, Not Reactive: Use sensory activities to create predictability and prevent overwhelm or shutdowns, not just to respond to them.

Empower Your Child: As your child grows, help them learn to identify their own sensory needs and advocate for themselves.

A sensory diet can be a powerful tool for supporting autistic and ADHD children in navigating a world that can often feel overwhelming or under-stimulating. By providing the right sensory input at the right times, you can help your child feel more comfortable, confident, and ready to learn and play. Every child is unique, what works for one may not work for another, so patience and flexibility are essential on this journey.