Calming Strategies Using Weighted Blankets

Let's talk about Weighted Blankets...do they help?

Weighted Blanket
Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often benefit from specialized calming strategies that promote relaxation and overall well-being.

Sensory Tools and Activities: Providing sensory tools like fidget spinners, textured objects, or weighted blankets can offer comfort and a sense of security. Engaging in sensory activities tailored to individual preferences can be calming.

Calming Weighted Blankets- Weighted blankets can benefit individuals with autism by providing a calming effect.

  • These blankets are often used by occupational therapists to manage over-stimulation and stress in autistic individuals
  • The deep touch pressure stimulation from the added weight may contribute to a sense of security and relaxation, potentially improving sleep quality in children with autism who have sleep impairments.
  • It's essential to choose an appropriate weight for the individual's size, typically around 10% of body weight.

How do weighted blankets work exactly?

The gentle pressure on your body provided by a weighted blanket can also help to calm you by activating your parasympathetic nervous system, which lowers your heart rate when you’re stressed. 

A weighted blanket uses “pressure therapy”, a calm-inducing amount of pressure on your entire body, similar to the feeling of being hugged, swaddled, stroked, or held. The right size and weight of a weighted blanket depend on the person’s needs.

Winston Says:

WinstonWe really love weighted blankets in our house. In general they help calm things down. Don't forget to..

  • Check the weight make sure it's appropriate for the size of the person!
  • Removable Cover- these can be hard to wash, keep that in mind!
  • The fillers used such as plastic pellets, glass beads, etc, have their own advantages and disadvantages you should consider before purchasing.

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