​Sensory Diet at Home: A Complete Guide for Parents

A sensory diet is a structured set of activities that help children regulate their sensory system throughout the day. These activities support attention, behaviour, emotional balance, and learning.

At Pranaah Child Development Centre, Dr Devi Raj, Developmental Psychologist, Licensed Early Interventionist, Chief Interventionist, and her team guide children and parents across Kollam, Kottarakkara, Karunagappally, Kayamkulam, Kundara, Paripally, Punalur, Pathanapuram, Varkkala with home-based sensory programs. A sensory diet is not a food diet — it is a carefully chosen set of sensory inputs that help a child stay calm, alert, and ready to learn.

 

Why Some Children Need a Sensory Diet

Children with sensory integration differences may show:

• Constant movement, climbing, jumping

• Fear of swings or heights

• Sensitivity to loud sounds

• Difficulty sitting still

• Seeking or avoiding touch

• Poor body awareness

• Emotional outbursts

• Difficulty with transitions

An occupational therapist creates a sensory diet that matches the child’s sensory profile, helping them regulate their body and behaviour.

 

Easy Sensory Diet Activities You Can Do at Home

1. Proprioceptive Activities (Calming & Organizing)

These help with body awareness and self-regulation:

• Pushing/pulling heavy objects

• Carrying grocery bags

• Wall push-ups

• Crawling through tunnels

• Kneading dough or clay

• Jumping on a mini-trampoline

• Bear walk & crab walk

These are perfect before homework or school.

 

2. Vestibular Activities (Movement & Balance)

Helps with attention, balance, and coordination:

• Swinging (front & back)

• Spinning in controlled, slow turns

• Rolling on the floor or mattress

• Rocking chair time

• Balancing across a tape line

Always supervise vestibular activities.

 

3. Tactile Activities (Touch Play)

Encourages exploration and reduces sensitivity:

• Rice / sand / water play

• Shaving foam writing

• Finger painting

• Playing with slime or playdough

• Touch-and-feel treasure hunt

Great for children who avoid or crave touch.

 

4. Oral Motor Activities

Useful for feeding, speech clarity & sensory needs:

• Blowing bubbles

• Drinking thick liquids through a straw

• Blowing whistles / harmonica

• Chewy tubes (OT recommended)

• Crunchy foods like carrots or apples

 

5. Deep Pressure Activities (Very Calming)

These reduce anxiety and meltdowns:

• Weighted lap pillow (OT-guided)

• Tight hugs (if the child enjoys)

• Rolling child gently in a bedsheet (“burrito wrap”)

• Firm massage on arms & legs

 

How Often Should a Sensory Diet Be Done?

A sensory diet is most effective when used:

• 3–6 times a day

• In small 5–10 minute bursts

• Before activities requiring attention (schoolwork, reading)

Each child’s needs differ, which is why your occupational therapist should design the plan.

 

How Pranaah Supports Parents

At Pranaah, sensory diets are created by OT specialists and reviewed by
Dr. Devi Raj, Developmental Psychologist & Licensed Early Interventionist.

We support families through:

• Sensory assessment

• Individual therapy

• Parent training

• Home-based programs

• School collaboration

Serving families in:
Kollam, Kottarakkara, Karunagappally, Kayamkulam, Kundara, Paripally, Punalur, Pathanapuram, Varkkala.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

1. What is a sensory diet?

A sensory diet is a structured plan of activities that help a child regulate sensations and behaviour.

2. Who needs a sensory diet?

Children with sensory processing differences, ADHD traits, autism, feeding issues, or emotional regulation difficulties.

3. Can I create a sensory diet without an OT?

No — sensory needs vary widely. An OT must assess the child first.

4. How long does it take to see improvement?

Most children show regulation improvements within 3–6 weeks.

5. Can sensory diets reduce tantrums or meltdowns?

Yes. When sensory needs are met, behaviour improves significantly.

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