A person being interviewed about the behavior of their student/child may not paint a clear picture. Oftentimes, caregivers either over dramatize, or deny behaviors and outcomes. Mild evidence supports that weighted items can reduce maladaptive behaviors , like aggression, self-injurious behaviors, or off-task behaviors. It is believed that when the central nervous system is well regulated, all physical processes are taking place more effectively. Due to this belief, the benefits of weighted vests may even extend to the child’s internal processes, including processing food more effectively, encouraging better sleeping habits , and impacting interoception (the sense of the internal conditions of the body including hunger, thirst, body temperature, etc.). Observe Your Child While Wearing Their Weighted Vest

There is no solid evidence that it helps reduce stereotypy or stimming in a child with autism, but therapists have noted a decrease in this behavior when a weighted vest is worn. This is supported by a study that showed that children with autism who wore weighted vests had an 18 to25 percent increase in on-task completion of fine motor activities (VandenBerg, 2001). Many patients I have worked with understand the value of their vest, and will begin to request it when needed. Stereotypical behaviors are repetitive body movements or moving of objects. This behavior is often seen in people with autism and other developmental disabilities. Another study published in the Scandanavian Journal of Occupational Therapy made a correlation between utilizing weighted vests and stimuli related to weighted vests and sleep. This study was published in June of 2021 which investigated if utilizing weighted clothing or blankets had a positive impact on the quality of sleep for individuals with autism. The quality of sleep was correlated to the improvement of a child with autism’s day-to-day life.

How Does Sensory Processing Disorder Connect To Weighted Blanket Use

Do you or a loved one struggle with anxiety associated with autism? Are you having troubles with stress and looking for solutions? Olson, L. J., & Moulton, H. J. (2004b). Use of weighted vests in pediatric occupational therapy practice. Physical & Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics, 24(3), 45–60. doi: 10.1300/J006v24n03_04. Children who fidget excessively, demonstrate difficulties with attention and impulsivity, or have difficulty with body awareness may benefit from a compression-style vest or garment. These products can be worn to provide additional sensory input about where ones body is in space . A wearing schedule is recommended and can vary based on your childs needs. It is important to consult your occupational therapist for an individually-designed wearing schedule, but generally, it could be 20-30 minutes worn, 20-30 minutes off, or activity-based duration. Some parents and educators feel that compression vests are helpful during especially stressful times . Should your child require additional, more consistent input throughout the day, consider adding a tight-fitting undershirt .

In addition to lap weights, some online stores sell weighted lap pals which are stuffed animals that are filled with weights. These can be comforting if your child likes stuffed animals. Preparing your child for weighted vests There is no harm in trying a weighted vest on a child with autism. However, there are some tips to ensure the safety and comfort of the child while wearing this kind of vest. How heavy should it be? Densem, J. F., Nuthall, G. A., Bushnell, J., & Horn, J. (1989). effectiveness of a sensory integrative therapy program for children with perceptual-motor deficits. Journal of Learning Disabilities, 22, 221–229. Palm weights or hand weights are also a type of compressed sensory stimulator that help improve focus for individuals with autism. They are specifically designed to assist them when engaging in writing, coloring, or drawing. When utilizing it for your child, please ensure there is adult supervision. Lap weights

Diy Duct Tape Adjustable Weight Vest

There are two types of weighted vests that are currently marketed to people with autism: Compression vests and Deep Pressure Vests.