Sensory Grounding

Fact Sheet: Sensory Grounding for Children with Self-Regulation Challenges

Introduction: Self-regulation is the ability to manage one’s emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in appropriate ways. Children with self-regulation challenges often struggle with this essential skill, which can result in difficulties in daily life, such as with attention, behavior, and social interactions. Sensory grounding is a technique that can help children regulate their sensory system, which can then help them regulate their emotions and behaviors.

What is Sensory Grounding? Sensory grounding is a technique that involves using the five senses (sight, touch, taste, smell, and sound) to bring an individual into the present moment and calm their sensory system. This can be achieved through various activities, such as deep breathing, listening to calming music, or engaging in physical activities.

How does Sensory Grounding help Children with Self-Regulation Challenges? The sensory system plays a significant role in regulating emotions and behaviors. When the sensory system is dysregulated, children may experience difficulties with self-regulation. Sensory grounding techniques can help regulate the sensory system, which can lead to improved self-regulation. By bringing the child’s focus to their senses, they can become more aware of their body and emotions, and then learn to manage them in more appropriate ways.

Examples of Sensory Grounding Techniques:

1. Deep Breathing: Encouraging deep breathing and focusing on the sensation of the breath can help children regulate their emotions and bring them into the present moment.
2. Physical Activities: Engaging in physical activities, such as jumping, running, or playing with a ball, can help regulate the sensory system and improve self-regulation.
3. Listening to Calming Music: Listening to calming music can have a calming effect on the body and mind, and help regulate the sensory system.
4. Sensory Tools: Using sensory tools, such as therapy putty, can help regulate the sensory system and improve self-regulation.

Conclusion: Sensory grounding is a powerful tool for children with self-regulation challenges. By using the senses to regulate the sensory system, children can learn to regulate their emotions and behaviors in more appropriate ways. With the help of sensory grounding, children can develop the self-regulation skills they need to succeed in daily life.

References:

1. Biel, L. (2017). The Out-of-Sync Child: Recognizing and Coping with Sensory Processing Disorder. Penguin
2. Parham, L. D., & Mailloux, Z. (2005). Occupational therapy for children (5th ed.). Mosby.
3. Koegel, L. K., Koegel, R. L., & Carter, C. M. (2010). Positive behavioral support for young children with challenging behavior. Young Exceptional Children, 13(4), 36-45.
4. Parham, L. D., & Wilchesky, M. (2001). A sensory integration focus for the treatment of a child with multiple disabilities. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 55(1), 43-50.