Using Sensory Tools in Occupational Therapy to Support Self-Regulation

For many children, especially those with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing challenges, everyday experiences can feel overwhelming. Bright lights, loud sounds, unexpected touches—all these can cause stress or emotional overload. At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, our occupational therapists use sensory tools to help children regulate their responses, calm their bodies, and stay focused in both therapy and real-world situations.

Sensory integration is a core part of occupational therapy. With the right tools and strategies, children can better engage in learning, social play, and daily routines.

What Are Sensory Tools?

Sensory tools are objects designed to provide specific tactile, visual, or proprioceptive input to help a child either calm down or wake up their sensory system. Common examples include:

• Tactile balls for squeezing, rolling, or fidgeting

• Weighted items like lap pads or vests for grounding pressure

• Textured surfaces for exploring touch

• Fidget tools to increase focus

• Chewy tubes or oral-motor tools for calming oral input

At OrbRom Center, we use these tools during therapy sessions to help children develop better awareness and control over their sensory needs.

How Sensory Tools Help

Sensory tools are not just toys—they’re therapeutic instruments. When used as part of a personalized occupational therapy plan, they can help children:

• Improve focus and attention

• Reduce anxiety or overstimulation

• Increase tolerance to sensory input (such as sounds, touch, or textures)

• Support fine motor development through tactile exploration

• Enhance emotional regulation in stressful situations

Children with conditions like ADHD or autism often benefit from using sensory tools both in therapy and at home or school.

Sensory Regulation at OrbRom Center

Every child’s sensory needs are unique. That’s why our occupational therapy programs in Phnom Penh always begin with a full developmental assessment. Based on this, our therapists create a custom sensory diet—a set of tools and strategies a child can use throughout their day.

In our sessions, we introduce tools like spiky balls, textured mats, compression gear, and movement-based activities to help children learn how their bodies respond to different stimuli. We also train parents on how to use these tools effectively at home.

Who Benefits from Sensory Tools?

Children who may benefit include those with:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• ADHD or executive functioning challenges

• Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)

• Anxiety or trauma histories

• Behavioral and self-regulation difficulties

By working with the child’s body and environment, we help create calm, predictable routines that support their development and independence.

Why Phnom Penh Families Choose OrbRom Center

Located centrally in Phnom Penh, OrbRom Center offers a sensory-friendly environment equipped with specialized tools and expert therapists. We combine the best practices in occupational therapy with a compassionate, individualized approach for every child and family.

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Final Thoughts

Sensory tools are more than just therapy aids—they are bridges to better focus, calm, and independence. At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, we use them thoughtfully and strategically as part of a larger occupational therapy plan that supports children’s growth from the inside out.

Explore our occupational therapy services or schedule a developmental assessment to find out how sensory integration therapy can help your child.