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Hoehn, T. P., & Baumeister, A. A. (1994). A critique of the application of sensory integration therapy to children with learning disabilities. Journal of Learning Disabilities, 27, 338–350.
In a classroom setting, stimming might be a hindrance for the child to complete a desktop activity. For this reason, a school therapist can apply sensory integration techniques such as having the child wear a weighted vest in the aim of lessening the stims and increasing focus. Calming toolEventually, therapists found weighted blankets to be a good way of applying this new type of therapy, creating a calming sensation as gravity gently pushes fabric down on the body. Kind of like a really, really good hug. A deep pressure vestprovides equal snugness throughout the torso and claims to provide better stability to children with autism. Most deep pressure vests don’t have the bulky weights that are common in weighted vests.
A meta-analysis (including a systematic review) that complied recent data for deep pressure therapy items, including weighted and compression vests, squeeze machines, and brushing therapy, found that none were supported by evidence for any reason (Losinski, Sanders & Wiseman, 2017). Many of the studies reported on were low-quality for a number of reasons, and it is unknown how this could contribute to the results. Weighted Vests and Autism The weighted vest will provide the proprioceptive input using deep pressure stimulation to the joints and muscles of the body. The pressure signals the brain and helps the person focus and keep calm. Since compression vests target the proprioceptive input of the child with autism, many parents and educators find them helpful during stressful times. How Do Weighted Vests Help?Thankfully, weighted vests are not the only sensory tool that can benefit individuals with autism. Similar to how weighted vests are useful for proprioception, swings can be helpful for individuals with vestibular sensory processing issues. Swinging provides vestibular input, which can help individuals better understand their body's position and movement in space. In a separate blog post, we'll discuss the benefits of swings for Autistic children. Where to Buy Weighted Vests for Kids
If you’re looking for something a little less post-apocalyptic, there’s good news. Weighted clothing options exist that are weighted while also looking stylish. Bearaby’s Weighted Cardigan: The Napigan Perhaps the most important source of information is the child himself. In the VandenBerg study, children who wore the vests wanted to wear them even after their tasks were done. One child reported that the vest “made him feel good.” Although weighted vests can provide some of the benefits listed above, every child with autism is unique. Results may vary between children. For example, a weighted vest may help your child focus and get better sleep at night. However, it may not be as helpful in reducing anxiety. Matyas, T. A., & Greenwood, K. M. (1990). Visual analysis of single-case time series: Effects of variability, serial dependence and magnitude of intervention effects. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 23, 341–351. doi: 10.1901/jaba.1990.23-341. Due to the mixed results on the effectiveness of weighted items, it is important to work with a professional with experience, and use trial and error to determine what does or does not have a positive effect on you or your child. Can Weighted Vests Help Kids With Autism And Sensory ChallengesWe’ve covered a variety of options to use as a compression garment to offer sensory support through pressure. Compression vests are a common term, but the vest garment is not always feasible as a sensory compression tool. Schaffer, R. (1984). Sensory integration therapy with learning disabled children: A critical review. Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, 51, 73–77. Vargas, S., & Camilli, G. (1999). A meta-analysis of research on sensory integration treatment. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 53, 189–198. Perhaps you're more interested in a compression or pressure vest? Well, no worries! You won't believe how easy (and how frugal!) making one of these vest can be with these great tutorials.
No evidence supports the use of weighted items to increase adaptive behaviors, like seated, on-task behavior.
Where can I buy a weighted vest for autism?
To me, this is much more harmful than trying a strategy such as a vest, or noise canceling headphones. VandenBerg, N. L. (2001). The use of a weighted vest to increase on-task behavior in children with attention difficulties. The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 55, 621–628. A weighted vest increases the intensity of a specific physical activity, especially in fitness and exercise. The child can simply work out, bike, walk, or carry out chores while wearing a weighted vest. How to Choose the Right Vest A weighted vest, weighted clothing, compression clothing, compression bed sheets, or weighted blanket are just some of the tools used to support individuals with autism. Outside the field of research, teachers and therapists using weighted vests on children with autism is already a common and accepted practice.
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