Carmen Knight, M.A.T. Early Childhood and Special Education

It is almost time for school to start back! Back to school brings a lot of emotions for parents and students alike. For many children, returning to school brings the joy of seeing friends and teachers. For others, the return may not be as exciting. Children with autism or sensory integration disorder may need to return to school with tools to help them process the new emotions that they are feeling.

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a condition that affects 1 in 54 children in the United States and is characterized by difficulty with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and difficulty with verbal communication. Sensory Integration Disorder is a condition that causes children to be unable to process and appropriately respond to their senses. Examples of this would be too much noise upon entering a classroom or the touch of someone's hand to an area that is sensitive for that child. School requires children to be extremely social, so I have found a few items that can be added to their book bags to help them remain calm.

SmileMakers offers a product that provides students with a calming tool that attaches to their backpack and looks super cool. Color Changing Sequin Ball Pulls provide sensory input for a child while staying inconspicuous about their need for sensory stimulation. Kids will love these color changing items and for those with a sensory need, the ability to rub the pull as hard or as soft as their needs require is an added benefit. This allows the child to self-regulate their emotions and feel more comfortable and prepared for the day.

Another fun item is the Emoji Stress Ball Backpack Pulls. This has the same concept as the color changing sequins ball pulls. The child can use this stress ball that is attached to their backpack to assist them in their sensory processing throughout the school day. If they become stressed or anxious, they can squeeze the ball to relieve the stress. They can also get a reminder of how to express themselves with the variety of emotions that come on these pulls. Other kids will love them and want them for their backpack, not even realizing that these pulls are being used for sensory stimulation.

Both amazing products are extremely affordable and come in a large quantity. Early interventionists and occupational therapists can use these items to work on patients sensory, calming and emotional issues and show love and support to patients as they begin their school year.