Steps

1. Observe patterns: does your child SEEK or AVOID sensory input?
2. Schedule regular sensory breaks throughout the day
3. For seekers: jumping, spinning, heavy work (carrying books, pushing trolley)
4. For avoiders: quiet space, noise-cancelling headphones, dim lighting
5. Keep a sensory toolkit bag for outings: fidgets, sunglasses, ear defenders

What you need

Sensory toolkit (fidgets, ear defenders, chewelry), observation notes

Why it works

Children with Sensory Processing differences and Autism process sensory information differently — some seek intense input while others are overwhelmed by it. A sensory diet provides regular, planned sensory input throughout the day, preventing the build-up that leads to meltdowns or shutdown.

Age guidance

Beneficial from age 2 onwards. An occupational therapist can create a tailored sensory profile, but you can start observing patterns yourself immediately.

Real-world example

A parent who started scheduling 'heavy work' breaks (carrying shopping bags, pushing a wheelbarrow) before challenging activities found that their child could sit through dinner and homework with significantly less fidgeting. The right sensory input at the right time made all the difference.

Troubleshooting

• Sensory needs change day to day, so stay flexible
• An occupational therapist can do a full sensory profile assessment
• Schools can implement sensory breaks too. Ask the learning support coordinator