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Sensory Ideas

Here are some great ideas for developing sensory experiences at home and in the classroom for individuals with disabilities. Make sure to bookmark this page, as I will be adding more suggestions as I conduct further research.

 Calm Down Glitter Bottles

Supports: Visual calming & emotional regulation
Materials: Recycled plastic water bottles, warm water, clear glue, glitter / sequins, optional food coloring
How to Make:

  • Fill bottle halfway with warm water

  • Add clear glue until bottle is ¾ full

  • Add glitter + one drop of color

  • Close tightly (hot glue or tape the cap for safety)
    Use: Shake and watch the glitter settle to self-regulate.

Sensory Texture Boards

Supports: Tactile exploration & desensitization
Materials: Cardboard or foam board + textures (felt, bubble wrap, craft foam, sandpaper, cotton, buttons, ribbon)
How to Make:

  • Cut textures into small squares

  • Glue onto board in rows or shapes
    Use: Students explore textures in a safe, guided way.

Sensory support
Sensory support
Squish Bags (Mess-Free!)

Supports: Fine motor & calming pressure
Materials: Ziplock bags, hair gel or clear soap, food coloring, glitter, small beads
How to Make:

  • Fill bag with gel + sprinkle glitter or beads

  • Remove air and seal

  • Tape edges to prevent leaks
    Variation: Draw letters or shapes on the outside for tracing practice.

“Calm Clouds” Cotton Art

Supports: Slow movement + emotional expression
Materials: Thick paper, cotton balls, glue, light watercolor wash
How to Make:

  • Brush light watercolor sky

  • Glue cotton balls to form clouds

  • Encourage slow breathing while placing each piece

Sensory Ideas
Calm Bead Stress Fidgets

Supports: Hand strength & stress release
Materials: Pipe cleaners + pony beads
How to Make:

  • Slide beads onto pipe cleaner

  • Twist ends to secure
    Kids can use during circle time to stay regulated.

Help with sensory ideas
Nature Rubbing Art

Supports: Sensory grounding + outdoor connection
Materials: Leaves, tree bark, crayons, paper
How to Make:

  • Place leaf or textured nature item under paper

  • Rub crayon gently to reveal texture
    Optional: Create a nature texture journal.

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