Your Cart is Empty
NDIS Approved Provider | Trusted by 200+ industry professionals | 25 years of expert knowledge & Experience
NDIS Approved Provider | Trusted by 200+ industry professionals | 25 years of expert knowledge & Experience
Incorporating weighted items in the classroom or clinic, can help your students with additional needs achieve more academically and improve their well being.
We find for some of the students in our specialist tutoring centre, that when they have weighted items they are better able to focus and regulate. Which in turn increases their academic engaged time.
But how do weighted items work? What features do you need to consider when choosing a weighted item? How should weighted items be incorporated to maximise their effectiveness?
Let’s explore the science, the features, and best practices to help you make informed decisions around using weighted items.
Weighted items work by providingdeep pressure stimulation (DPS), a form of tactile input that mimics the sensation of a firm hug or gentle compression.
DPS activates the proprioceptive system—our body’s ability to sense movement, action, and location.
This input has been shown to release calming chemicals, such asserotonin anddopamine, and can lower levels ofcortisol, the stress hormone.
It also helps us “know” where our body is in space, because there are receptors in our muscles and joints all over our body. Providing proprioceptive input can help us feel connected to where we are, safe and grounded.
For students who experience sensory overload or heightened anxiety, the grounding effect of weighted items can be particularly beneficial, helping them to regulate their emotions and remain focused on tasks.
Research and anecdotal evidence suggest that weighted items can be effective for many students, but they are not for everyone and not a one-size fits all.
For those who do enjoy and benefit from using a weighted item, in our tutoring centre we have found the strengths of using to be:
Longer time on task: students are able to focus and attend for longer periods of time when using a weighted item.
Less movement: students are less fidgety and don’t spin, rock or bounce in their seat as much.
Better emotional regulation: students are noticeably less agitated and visibly more calm. For some students we can see an immediate shift (their shoulders relax, they smile etc). Being better able to regulate, means they are more receptive to coping with challenges, taking learning risks and transitioning from one task to the next.
Follow routine more easily and confidently: the weighted item becomes part of and supports the routine and expectations of our sessions.
Fosters autonomy and empowerment: offering the opportunity to trial (and use) a weighted item AND having a couple of different options available to choose from promotes a student’s ability to “listen” to their needs and what works best for them. This promotes individual choice and control.
We have found there are a number of factors to consider when selecting weighted items to offer in your classroom or clinic.
Weight: weighted items should generally be no more than 10% of a student’s body weight. If a student is gravitating towards heavier items, we recommend discussing this with their parent and consulting with a therapist (usually an Occupational Therapist skilled in Sensory Integration)
Type: Weighted items come in various forms, but not all are suitable for a classroom. These are the ones we have found to be most easily incorporated.
* Weighted Lap Blankets: are ideal for seated activities, they are discreet and don’t impede or obstruct the ability to move and complete tasks. Look for weighted lap blankets that have a different fabric on either side so it offers a variety of tactile input. One side should be a plush fabric, in our experience. It is also an advantage if the blanket has a “loop” tab on a corner where you can attach a fidget or chew, if needed.
* Weighted Compression Vests: are well suited to contexts that require movement such as the playground or physical activities. They can be incredibly effective and are more likely to have been recommended by a therapist and part of an IEP (Individual Education or Learning Plan).
* Weighted Plush Animals: we prefer weighted plush animals that are not too big and are relatively flat so they do not interfere with a student being able to participate in tasks. Big weighted animals can be distracting and impede engagement in activities/tasks.
We have three different weighted animals in our centre, each with a different weight (2kg, 2.5kg and a 3.5kg). Students then can choose the one that feels right for them, if they wish to use one.
* how easy a weighted item will be to keep clean. Some weighted items can be washed on a gentle machine wash and then air dried (they can take a long time to dry thoroughly). Some can only be spot cleaned.
* the age, size/weight of your students will determine the weight of the items offered as well as the style. Some older students may not be happy using a weighted plush animal for example.
* additional sensory input. Some weighted items have additional sensory benefits such as different tactile features which offer fidget or stimming opportunities.
* safety. Some weighted items such as weighted plush animals may have features that could be removed such as buttons for eyes. Many of our students that enjoy weighted items may also be fidgeters and those button eyes may not stay secure for long.
Whilst some students with additional needs may benefit from weighted items, they are not for everyone. There are a few things that must be kept in mind:
Medical Contraindications: Students with certainmedical conditions, such as respiratory issues or circulatory disorders, may need to avoid weighted compression or lap blankets.
Overuse: Weighted items arenot meant to be worn or used all day. Extended use can reduce their effectiveness and may lead to discomfort.
Resistance: If a student does not wish to use a weighted item, then absolutely this should be respected.
Lack of Monitoring: Always ensure that weighted items are used under adult supervision to avoid improper placement or accidental injury.
To maximise the benefits of weighted items:
Introduce Them Gradually: Allow students to explore weighted items at their own pace.
Provide Different Options: several options of differing styles/types/weights can encourage students to notice how each makes them feel
Pair with Other Strategies: Weighted items work best when combined with other sensory tools and self-regulation techniques, such as fidget toys or calming activities.
Communicate with Parents: Work with parents to understand the child’s needs and ensure consistency between home and school.
Consult with Therapist: Weighted items are a therapeutic tool and it can be worth getting expert guidance from a student’s therapist, if they have one.
Observe and Adapt: Regularly assess the effectiveness of the weighted item and adjust its use as needed.
Weighted items can be a powerful addition to the classroom or clinic. They can help students with emotional regulation, improve their sense of calm and focus. As a consequence, students will be better off in terms of their learning and their well being.
By understanding the science, selecting the right tools, and using them appropriately, teachers and tutors can create an inclusive, sensory-friendly environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive.
AtThe Starfish Store, we offer a carefully curated range of weighted items designed to meet the diverse needs of students with additional challenges. Whether it’s a weighted lap blanket, compression vest, or plush toy, we’re here to help you find the perfect solution.
Explore our collection today and discover the difference that the right sensory tools can make.
Kirstie Wishart M.Ed (Special Education).
Owner and founder of The Starfish Store. Kirstie’s professional life has included: teaching (in both public and private schools in Australia, New Zealand and Thailand), lecturer and subject coordinator at the University of Wollongong, Educational consultant (working with children and young people with a trauma background), OoHC Case Work Manager, and Specialist Tutor (working with children and young people with significant learning difficulties and/or disabilities).
40 Proprioceptive activities for the classroom. Simple and practical activities to incorporate Proprioceptive into the classroom. 16 A4 sheets to print for your classroom, therapy space or home.
Weighted items like lap blankets and compression vests can transform classrooms and clinics by helping students self-regulate, reduce anxiety, and improve focus.
From understanding the science of deep pressure stimulation to selecting the right tools, this guide provides everything teachers and tutors need to create a sensory-friendly learning environment.
Not all Lycra is created equal, and when it comes to sensory tools, quality matters. Premium Lycra takes sensory support to the next level, offering superior comfort, durability, and unmatched benefits for children with sensory needs and learning challenges.
From body socks to tunnels and bed sheets, discover why investing in high-quality materials can make a significant difference in...
Looking to boost hand strength, improve dexterity, or find a calming sensory tool? Therapy putty is a versatile solution that can help with all of these, and so much more!
In our latest blog, we dive into the many benefits of therapy putty, plus share 20 creative and easy ways to use it for strengthening and stress relief! Perfect for...
Understanding phonics is essential for helping children learn to read and spell effectively. Our latest blog dives into the versatile letter 'y' and its four distinct sounds, offering practical strategies and tips for mastering these phonics rules step by step.
With easy-to-follow explanations and engaging techniques, you'll find that learning and teaching phonics can be both fun and rewarding. Join...
Discover creative and effective ways to maximise the benefits of your Lycra Body Sock. From sensory regulation to imaginative play, explore 20 innovative activities that enhance body awareness, coordination, and relaxation.
Perfect for sensory integration therapy, these ideas provide deep pressure input, helping individuals feel more grounded and centred. Whether you're a parent or a therapist, our guide...
Even though we know games are valuable, sometimes we simply run out of time in our sessions.
Games are a simple yet effective way to end on a positive note and a great opportunity to strengthen bonds with your students, all while learning!
If you find yourself with only a few minutes left to fit a fun game in,...
Dive into the world of early literacy instruction with our latest blog post featuring Coko Educational Bricks! Follow Kirstie as she uncovers the innovative methods that are transforming the way we teach and learn language and literacy.
Click here to explore the full story and unlock the potential of Coko Educational Bricks.
Navigating the challenges of post-school meltdowns and hyperactivity is a common concern for parents. However, with the right strategies, we can support our child's emotional regulation and well-being. From routines to sensory techniques, each tactic contributes to creating a supportive environment for your child.
Join us as we explore practical solutions to ease the transition from school to home,...
When it comes to early start NDIS plans, you may find that not all children are allocated funding under the CORE category. The shift in funding allocation has left many families in a predicament, as they struggle to secure the necessary resources to support their children.
However, there is hope. You might be able to request an allocation...
Developing good handwriting is a valuable and practical skill. When you can write effortlessly, your work becomes legible and efficient, enabling you to focus on the content rather than the physical act of writing.
However, for left-handed students, achieving mastery in handwriting can be more challenging.
In this blog post, we'll showcase the top tips for...
Confusing the letters b and d is a common issue for many learners. Whether it is mixing up b’s and d’s in reading or writing, or both, as parents and educators, it is important to address this early.
In this blog, Kirstie explains 'why' it is important and lists the strategies that she uses to help learners master their b’s and d’s in the Starfish tutoring...
In early childhood education, teaching the alphabet is a fundamental skill that lays the foundation for reading and writing.
However, the order in which the letters are taught can greatly impact a child's learning progress.
In this blog, we will explore the importance of teaching the alphabet in a particular order, provide practical tips on how...
Flashcards are a versatile and effective tool for teaching phonics. They are a simple and engaging way to introduce and reinforce letter sounds and word recognition skills.
In this blog, we will explore the benefits of using flashcards for phonics learning and provide practical tips for making the most of this valuable teaching tool.
As parents and teachers, we understand the importance of fostering early development in our little ones. Games are not only a fun activity, but they provide numerous developmental benefits.
From improving social skills to enhancing cognitive abilities, games offer a well-rounded learning experience for children.
Join Kirstie (M.Ed Special Education) as she talks you through some her top...
Learning to tell the time is an important life skill and it is a good way to promote self esteem & confidence. Many children struggle learning to tell the time, especially on an analogue clock. That doesn’t have to be the case, though.
You can make the process fun and easy by sticking to these three easy steps!
There are very few things (if any) more important for a child’s development than sleep. Sleep is essential for growth, brain health and overall wellbeing.
Poor sleep, or lack of sleep entirely, can be one of the biggest contributors leading to a child under achieving or struggling to reach their educational goals and developmental milestones.
So what can we do?
Ever heard of the term 'Sensory Safe Space'? If you haven't, we're here to shed some light on
what we believe can be a life line for those with sensory disorders.
Find out what we mean by 'sensory safe' and how we can prepare to host someone with sensory challenges.
Whether we like it or not, screens are here to stay. Technology is vital for staying connected, but what we can do is learn to manage screen time responsibly.
Games are an ideal solution. There are so many great, screen-free games to keep children entertained that are just as easy to pop in the bag or car, here's some of our...
Face masks. A hot topic. And one that could be with us for some time yet. These are strange times for us as adults. Imagine what it is like for our children. We are all trying to find ways to live and function in what is the 'new normal'.
Here at Starfish, we often say synthetic phonics is the bread & butter of our reading program.
Phonics is the Bread, blending is the Butter.
Lycra Tunnels. We love them. With these fantastic sensory tools being the featured product of the month, we figured what better time to share some ideas with you on the best ways to make use of these stretchy tubes of fun!
