Sensory Integration Techniques: Tools and Tips for Parents

Introduction: Making Sense of the Senses

Does your child constantly seek movement or avoid certain textures like they’re lava? You’re not alone. Many parents notice their child reacting strongly to sights, sounds, textures, or movements, and aren’t quite sure what’s going on.

Enter: Sensory Integration. This is how our brains make sense of all the sensory input we receive from the world. For some kids, this process works a bit differently, which can impact their focus, mood, or ability to participate in everyday tasks.

The good news? You don’t need a fancy therapy room to help. With the right tools, some creativity, and a dash of patience, you can support your child’s sensory needs right at home.

 

What is Sensory Integration?

Sensory integration is the brain’s ability to receive, organise, and respond to input from our senses. These include not just the five we typically think of (sight, smell, touch, taste, and sound), but also the vestibular (balance and movement) and proprioceptive (body awareness) systems.

For children with sensory processing differences, the brain might overreact, underreact, or struggle to interpret this information accurately—making things like noisy rooms, scratchy clothes, or unexpected movement feel overwhelming.

That’s where sensory integration techniques come in. They help children regulate and respond to sensory input in more comfortable and functional ways.

 

Tools and Techniques by Sensory System

Here are practical, parent-friendly ideas to help support your child’s sensory development through fun and simple activities.

Tactile (Touch)

• Activities: Sensory bins, finger painting, playdough, water play, cooking activities (kneading dough)
  
• Tools: Textured fabrics, fidget toys, tactile brushes
  
• Tip: Always let your child lead—some kids love messy play, while others prefer dry textures.
  
  

Vestibular (Movement & Balance)

• Activities: Swinging, spinning, rolling, trampoline jumping, yoga poses
  
• Tools: Sit-n-spin, balance boards, rocking chairs, therapy balls
  
• Tip: Start with slow, rhythmic movement. Watch how your child responds and adjust as needed.
  
  

Proprioception (Body Awareness & Pressure)

• Activities: Bear walks, wall pushes, crawling games, jumping on a crash mat
  
• Tools: Weighted blankets, body socks, resistance bands
  
• Tip: These are great for calming and organising. Use them before transitions or to reset after big emotions.
  
  

Auditory (Sound)

• Activities: Listening games, musical instruments, clapping patterns
  
• Tools: Noise-canceling headphones, white noise machines, sound puzzles
  
• Tip: Use predictable, calming sound patterns. Limit loud or unexpected noises when possible.
  
  

Visual (Sight)

• Activities: I-spy games, flashlight tag, visual tracking with toys
  
• Tools: Visual schedules, lava lamps, calming light projectors
  
• Tip: Reduce clutter and visual overload. Use clear, simple visuals for routines and expectations.
  
  

Oral (Mouth)

• Activities: Blowing bubbles, drinking through a straw, crunchy or chewy snacks
  
• Tools: Chewable necklaces, oral motor tools, toothbrushes for oral stimulation
  
• Tip: Oral input can help with focus and calming. Great for kids who chew on clothing or pencils.
  
  

 

How to Integrate Sensory Activities into Daily Life

You don’t have to block out a special “sensory time” every day. In fact, many of these strategies can be woven naturally into your routine:

• Sensory breaks during screen time or homework
  
• Heavy work before school or after transitions
  
• Oral activities like chewing gum or sipping smoothies during meals
  
• Quiet fidget toys in the car or at restaurants
  
• Movement games as part of morning or bedtime routines
  
  

Create a simple sensory routine chart with your child so they feel in control and know what to expect.

 

When to Seek Extra Support

If you’re finding it hard to identify what your child needs, or what sensory challenges are significantly affecting their day—it may be time to speak to a paediatric occupational therapist.

Our Personalised Sensory Processing Assessment is a great first step to help you understand your child’s unique sensory profile and discover what strategies may work best.

 

You’ve Got This!

Supporting your child’s sensory needs doesn’t mean overhauling your life. It means tuning in, being creative, and offering support that’s just right for them.

Try one or two techniques this week and observe how your child responds. Celebrate small wins. Trust your instincts. And remember—you’re doing an amazing job.

Want more ideas? Check out our other blogs on Creating a Sensory-Friendly Home and Understanding Sensory Processing Disorders in Children!

Got a sensory strategy that works for your family? Share it with us, we’d love to hear your story!