Backyard Sensory Experiences: A Guide to Engaging the Senses
In the realm of occupational therapy, Colleen Beck, OTR/L, stands as an author and practitioner who has dedicated her career to aiding children's growth. With over two decades of experience in diverse settings, Beck has now penned a book titled 'Sensory Lifestyle: Practical Activities to Nourish the Sensorimotor System.'
This book offers a wealth of information on outdoor sensory activities and sensory diets for children, particularly those with sensory processing challenges. For those interested in collaborating with Beck, her email address is provided within the book.
Sensory kids may find the summer months challenging due to the various sensory inputs they encounter outdoors. However, with the right strategies and activities, these children can enjoy the outdoors as much as their peers.
The book provides a host of engaging outdoor activities that cater to a child's sensory needs. From sliding down a hill on cardboard, creating nature 'soup' with grass, flower petals, sticks, and more, to playing games like hide and seek, tag, or even a backyard dance party, there's something for every child.
To manage summer sensory overload, the book offers practical strategies such as creating a visual schedule, wearing shoes, and providing proprioceptive input. It also suggests limiting time outdoors when sensory overload is imminent, knowing triggers for sensory overload, and using calming or alerting snacks as needed.
The book also mentions the 'Sensory Lifestyle Handbook,' which offers guidance on creating a sensory lifestyle to address the sensory needs of children with sensory processing challenges.
In addition to her book, Beck has also created a website that provides easy and fun tools for therapists, teachers, and parents. This platform aims to make sensory play and sensory diets more accessible and enjoyable for all.
It's important to note that while sensory play and sensory diets share similarities, they are not the same. Sensory diets are more individualized and specific to a child's needs, providing a specific set of sensory tools to meet and address certain needs.
Common backyard toys or items found in your garage can be repurposed to use in outdoor sensory play. From turning a water table into a nature exploration station, to using a mini trampoline for jumping and movement activities, the possibilities are endless.
With the publication of 'Sensory Lifestyle: Practical Activities to Nourish the Sensorimotor System,' Colleen Beck continues to make a significant impact in the field of occupational therapy, offering practical solutions for parents, teachers, and therapists alike. The book is available on Amazon as a digital e-book or softcover print book.
