Summer gives us the opportunity to engage in sensory activities that we might not have the chance to do when it’s cold out. With these summer sensory activities you’ll always have something to pull out when your kids are clamoring for something to do in their newfound free time. Some days will be better for indoor activities and we have that covered too!
Hand-Eye Coordination
A game of catch gives your child an opportunity to exercise the brain muscles responsible for crossing midline, mastering timing and improving coordination. Hand Eye Coordination Scarves drift down slowly, giving your child time to get in position to catch it before it lands on the ground. Sometimes kids get frustrated when a ball rolls away from them. Use a set of Weighted Textured Balls instead to avoid the issue. You can also play kickball or softball to work on coordination. A small Therapy Ball or an Emotion Ball are both good options to make sure no one gets hurt while playing.
Sand and Surf
While the beach is enjoyable for some people, kids with sensory differences might find the sand and ocean too overwhelming. Create a mini beach experience to expose your child to the sensations they can expect to experience. Our At the Beach Weighted Sand Kit provides heavy work while they explore the sandy texture. Give them a small shovel and sieve to find the hidden pieces in the sand. You can also set up a water play station outside! Use buckets, cups and Stick N’ Twist Suction Shapes to engage your child. If your child will tolerate it, put on sunscreen at home so that they can grow accustomed to the sensation while in a familiar environment.
More Mobility
The summer also gives us the opportunity to take out the wheels! Many cities have greenways or parks with bike paths, but even if your child is not ready for that, a quiet parking lot or cul-de-sac can do the trick. Scooters and bikes are great ways to work on motor planning, coordination and strengthening. Bikes encourage balance relations to engage the vestibular system too! Be sure to wear a helmet and other protective gear, and review safety rules of the road before heading out on a ride.
Play All Day
Whether you have an outdoor playset or go to a local park, activities like climbing and swinging give your kids a fun vestibular and proprioceptive workout. Many kids need the intense input to joints and muscles that might not be available year round. Climbing on the monkey bars, jumping on a trampoline or simply rolling down a grassy hill can give them the opportunity to flex those muscles and stimulate their balance receptors.
Rain, Rain, Go Away
On rainy days you can either hunker down indoors or embrace the weather. Put on a bathing suit and head outside for some all-encompassing water play fun. Go down the slide, make mud pies and try catching raindrops on your tongue. If you prefer to stay dry then there is also plenty to do inside the house! Get out extra energy with an indoor obstacle course. Challenge your child’s skills on theBalance Trainer and have them leap over theFoam Hurdles. Bring down the energy levels afterward in a cozy corner. Choose abean bag chair, set the mood withsoft lightingand bring along aweighted friend for calming input.
Summer is full of sensory exploration and new adventures in learning. Tailor your child’s favorite activities to the season. Take the opportunity to encourage your child to try new things, too. You can make a summer goals list together at the beginning of the season so that your kids can check off each goal they accomplish!
Explore our range of outdoor play tools to use this summer. Worried about transitioning back to school? Our OTs are sharing their top tools to help ease the transition!
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