A sensory crash pad for autism is a type of sensory cushion designed to provide calming, relaxing input for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). These pads can be used in a variety of settings such as classrooms, therapy rooms, family rooms, and even bedrooms. They provide a safe space for children to calm down when feeling overwhelmed by sensory overload.
The pads are also an important tool for therapists who use them in different types of therapy such as occupational therapies and autism spectrum disorder interventions. Sensory crash pads provide the user with deep pressure stimulation, which can help reduce anxiety and improve focus. With its calming effects, a sensory crash pad can be an invaluable tool for anyone on the autism spectrum.
What is the Purpose of a Crash Pad for Sensory Processing?
Heavy work activities can be a great way for children with sensory processing disorders to recharge their minds and find relief. Not only do these activities bring joy and fun into play, but they can also help improve attention capabilities, provide proprioceptive feedback to muscles and joints, increase body awareness, and even have a calming effect to reduce aggression.
Kids with autism who have particularly high levels of these traits can benefit substantially from the addition of such an activity in their life. That's where crash pads come in.
Crash pads are like an adrenaline rush for a child with a sensory processing disorder or those who are sensitive to touch, texture, or loud noises. It's their chance to 'hit the reset button' – allowing them to get their wiggles out while also providing therapeutic and calming effects. With kids who often run into furniture, people, and walls, crash pads provide secure and safe sensory input.
Of course, when it comes time for your little ones to crash-land at the end of the day, it's important not to forget soft pillows or cushions around the crash pad – nobody wants any broken bones! All in all, heavy work activities are a great way for kids with SPDs to foster healthy behavior while having a blast!
What is Inside a Crash Pad?
A crash pad is like bubble wrap for your kiddo. Made from 100% eco-friendly polyfoam, CordaRoy's crash pad's resilient and shock-absorbing nature is sure to protect your little one while they jump on it. Its unique fabric acts like a great cushion, spreading the impact force through its material so that the fabric lasts longer and your kiddo stays safe.
Plus, this magical crash pad slowly releases air upon impact, so now you don't have to worry about your kid bouncing off the walls - literally! And the best part? A lifetime warranty stands behind CordaRoy's products so you know you're investing in quality - and enjoyment - for years to come.
What are the Benefits of Sensory Crash Pads?
You might have found yourself wondering what the advantages of investing in a crash pad could be for autistic children. Well, it turns out that the benefits of introducing one into home life can be pretty significant!
Not only are crash pads great for developing and improving gross motor skills, coordination, and fine motor skills, but they also offer a wealth of sensory support - providing deep pressure to the leg and knee muscles, which can be highly beneficial for muscle tone, balance, and even core strength.
Plus, jumping into a soft, fabric-coated crash pad promotes strong tactile senses in autistic kids, along with stimulating their regulation through proprioceptive input - such as swinging, bouncing, rocking, and swaying. In short: if you want your autistic child to thrive in their home environment then getting yourself a crash pad is definitely something to get excited about!
How Do You Use a Sensory Crash Pad?
Using a crash pad for sensory therapy is actually quite straightforward. First and foremost, it’s important to ensure you have plenty of space in the room your child will be using their pad – as this will help prevent injuries. Once that’s sorted, all you need to do is place the pad on the floor, then get your child to lie down on top of it.
This is where the fun begins – you can use a variety of activities with the pad, such as tumbling and rolling around; jumping up and down; or just lying still while listening to calming music. As long as your child feels safe and secure and they have plenty of positive reinforcement they’ll be able to enjoy their time on the pad, and use it to help manage stress.
Fun Activities for Your Crash Pad
No matter what age your kid is, there’s a world of activities out there specifically designed to help them get the most out of their crash pad. Here are some particularly fun and engaging activities you can try with them:
- Guided Movement - One great way to introduce your child to the concept of using their crash pad is by guiding them through a series of movements. This could include asking them to jump into the air or hop across the pad.
- Balance Exercises - As well as helping your child develop their balance and coordination, activities such as walking across the crash pad can help build up strength in their leg muscles – which is particularly beneficial for those with low muscle tone.
- Yoga - Using the crash pad for yoga poses can help your kiddo develop a greater understanding of their body, and provide that all-important deep pressure to soothe their senses.
- Dancing - Get your child to create some moves of their own, or even learn a choreographed routine together. Not only is this great for physical development, but it’s also an excellent way to get creative and blow off some steam!
- Leap Frog - Get your child to jump from one side of the crash pad to the other while counting or saying a fun phrase.
- Hide and Seek - Hide some toys around or below the pad. Then ask your kiddo to find them. This can help with problem-solving skills, as well as being great fun!
- Push and Pull: Place a toy or a cushion at either end of the crash pad, then ask your kid to push and pull it around. This helps with both upper and lower body strength.
Conclusion
Introducing a crash pad into your home can be an incredibly beneficial tool for helping autistic children to improve their gross motor skills, develop better coordination and fine motor skills, manage stress levels, and get plenty of sensory input.
The next time your kiddo needs to relax and unwind, they’ll have a fantastic tool at their disposal. Just make sure you always supervise them when using the pad, and that you check the material is safe before each use.
Sources
Benefits of Deep Pressure Therapy for Children with Autism | Autism Parenting Magazine
Heavy work and sensory processing issues: What you need to know | Understood
