Here’s to a Sensory-Rich 2015
A new year is upon us and with it comes endless
possibilities for growth, renewal and new experiences. Outdoor exercise is often difficult in
the Northeast but here are some suggestions to keep your bodies filled with the
right amount of sensory input. We
have 7 senses so remember to stimulate all of them. Here are 7 suggestions.
1-Go outdoors whether it is snowing or not. Bundle up and take a walk, play in the
backyard or go to a public or school playground. Look at winter scenery and listen to
winter sounds.
2-Go to the zoo.
It is a quiet time and easy to maneuver. If you are cold, drink hot chocolate/coffee/tea/cider or
duck into one of the indoor spaces.
Your olfactory sense (smell) has many opportunities. If you want to stay completely indoors
then try an aquarium.
3-Enjoy winter sports and games. Ice skate, ski, sled, tube, make snow angels, forts, have
snowball tosses. Winter activities allow you use your muscles and stimulate so
many senses. If the snow is heavy
or thick, you are giving your proprioceptive system extra input.
4-Ceramics-It is great for heavy work of the upper body and
works the entire arm from upper to lower.
Once it dries, you can paint your creation and work on fine motor
precision (helps handwriting) while stimulating your visual and olfactory
systems.
5-Swimming-A possible addition or alternative to outdoor
activities. The water envelopes
your body providing deep pressure as well as working most muscle groups.
6-Be creative indoors-Use your furniture, blankets, sheets,
pillows etc. to build castles, forts, obstacle courses, etc. Have fun!
7-Get involved=Advocate for outdoor recess at school. There is no reason that students can’t
go outside if it is cold. Make sure students are dressed warmly and cover their
heads and hands. If the students
really cannot go outside, make sure recess is more than just watching a video
or movie.
Enjoy the winter and stimulate all 7 senses!
