Sensory Diet 101: A Beginner’s Guide for Parents and Teachers

A sensory diet is a structured plan of activities designed to help children manage sensory input and improve focus, emotional regulation, and daily functioning. Whether a child is overstimulated or under-responsive to sensory input, a sensory diet provides the right balance of activities to meet their individual needs.

What Is a Sensory Diet?

A sensory diet includes activities that target a child’s sensory processing challenges. These activities are tailored to meet their sensory needs and can involve movement, touch, sound, and visual inputs. A sensory diet is often used for children with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorder (SPD).

Who Needs a Sensory Diet?

Children who exhibit behaviors like fidgeting, difficulty concentrating, or avoiding textures may benefit from a sensory diet. These behaviors can indicate challenges in processing sensory information, which affect learning, communication, and social interaction.

Key Activities in a Sensory Diet

1. Proprioceptive Activities – Focused on body awareness and muscle control. Examples:
   • Pushing or pulling heavy objects
   • Jumping on a trampoline
   • Wall push-ups
2. Vestibular Activities – Target balance and movement. Examples:
   • Swinging or spinning on playground equipment
   • Rocking in a chair
   • Balancing on a wobble board
3. Tactile Activities – Enhance touch and texture tolerance. Examples:
   • Playing with sand, rice, or water
   • Using textured toys or fidget items
   • Finger painting
4. Oral Motor Activities – Support oral input needs. Examples:
   • Blowing bubbles
   • Drinking through a straw
   • Chewing crunchy or chewy foods

How to Create a Sensory Diet

1. Observe the Child’s Needs – Identify triggers and sensory preferences.
2. Consult a Professional – Occupational therapists can create personalized sensory diet plans.
3. Schedule Activities – Incorporate activities throughout the day to maintain regulation.
4. Track Progress – Adjust activities based on the child’s response and improvement.

Benefits of a Sensory Diet

• Improves focus and attention during tasks.
• Reduces anxiety and meltdowns caused by overstimulation.
• Enhances motor skills and coordination.
• Supports better social interactions and self-regulation.

A sensory diet can transform a child’s ability to process sensory information, boosting their confidence and performance in school and daily life. Parents and teachers should work closely with occupational therapists to ensure activities are appropriate and effective.