Proprioception is the sense that tells you where your body is in space. Proprioceptive input can be calming for those who are easily overwhelmed by sensory stimulation or alerting for those who need increased sensory stimulation to focus and pay attention.
Proprioceptive seekers will enjoy:
- rough-and-tumble play
- running
- jumping
- stomping
- biting/chewing on objects
- slamming their bodies into things
- banging their hands together
- banging their hands on other body parts
- squeezing objects with excessive pressure
- climbing
Children who seek proprioception will often knock things over, lean heavily on furniture or walls, or even fall to the ground. They require deep pressure to help their bodies feel where they are in space. Helpful tools for children with low proprioception include:
- compression clothing and vests
- weighted blankets or lap pads
- chewy toys
- jumping onto bean bags or crash pads
- rolling around on mats
- “heavy work” such as carrying books, moving chairs, carrying groceries, or pushing carts
- animal walks, such as hopping like a bunny, walking like a bear, or crawling like a crab
- hugs and squeezes
Proprioceptive avoiders will not enjoy rough-and-tumble play. They may keep to themselves and become easily overwhelmed by touch. Providing dim lights and quiet space can help them focus and be more relaxed in their environment.
To learn even more about sensory adaptations and the importance of sensory play, enroll in our FREE online course “Teaching Strategies: Let’s Play!”