Autism Sensory Integration - Why Are Small Tools Needed?

If you have young children with Autism, you maya new one with a new feel.
have noticed they shy away from you andUsing tools like this help lead to the ability for a
others. Part of the reason for this is the sensoryparent and later a teacher to be able to touch a
problems that a child with Autism can have. Manychild's hands. Touching their hands is important to
children with Autism do not like to be touched.teaching other skills. Some parents also notice that
They can draw their hands back if you try tothe small tool has also become a tool to help with
touch them like something is hot. One of thebehaviors like waiting or calming down.
ways to combat this is by using small tools that aSmall tools are also wonderful for another reason.
children with Autism might like to touch.Many times it is difficult to teach a child with
The tool might be as simple as a small tub withAutism to cross midline with a toy. 'Crossing
sand or water in it. It could also be something likemidline' means they can move a toy across their
a koosh ball. A koosh ball is a plastic ball withbody to the other hand. Part of the reason a child
things that look like hair or spines coming out of it.will not do that can be the sensory defenses in
There are soft one and hard ones. Parents cantheir hands.
find them at dollar stores.Crossing midline is considered a milestone for
Being able to carry as small sensory toy or tool ischildren with disabilities. If your child participates in
ideal. At first you can play with it and let yourphysical therapy or occupational therapy this is
child watch. Eventually you can let your child touchone of the early goals. Parents can start some of
it or guide your child to touch it. Very slowly yourthis work, gently of course, early on.
child will take over the tool. Then it is time to find