Helping Children Meet Their Full Potential Faster
“Autism is about having a pure heart and being very sensitive… It is about finding a way to survive in an overwhelming, confusing world… It is about developing differently, in a different pace and with different leaps.” – Quote by unknown author.
Is your child bursting with energy? They jump, spin, or bang into objects? They don’t respond to generic stimulation? They are uncomfortable with simple tasks? If any of these questions resonate with you, then it’s time for you to consider a sensory gym as part of therapy for the child.
Sensory gyms are any child’s delight as well as a therapy room mixed together. You may have heard or seen one with brightly colored walls. Alternatively, you may have come across child-friendly stations that would seem ideal in playgrounds instead of being a part of a gym. It is a defined environment meant for children with special needs such as those on the Autism spectrum. Please note Sensory gyms are found in therapy centers, a few schools, and hospitals. Since they are not regular gyms, they are not found as standalone centers where parents can walk – in and enroll their child.
These gyms are a happy & safe environment that aids a child’s learning & sensory experience thanks to the varied sensory equipment present. Sensory gyms are ideal for kids on the spectrum and with other disorders that might have caused sensory issues. These disorders and conditions include Torticollis, Down's syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Developmental Delay, PDD / PDD NOS, Spina Bifida, Congenital Disorders, Orthopedic Injuries, Muscular Disorders, Neurodevelopment Delays, ADD / ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder.
It’s a common misconception that people on the spectrum are loners and do not wish to interact with others. But that’s not always correct. Children with ASD often like to be in the company of others but are not sure how to go about doing the same. This is where a sensory gym with fitness trainers (who have majored in helping people with special needs) comes to the aid.
Some pieces of equipment found in a great sensory gym include:
·Sensory swings – Such a swing provides stimuli to vestibular and proprioceptive senses. There are different types of such swings including those that look like hammocks or cocoons. With respect to strength building, core strength, and balance, trapeze swings/rope-style swings are also found in some gyms.
·Tunnels - As kids, we all love crawling through any form of tunnels. The sense of adventure of going into a tunnel and finding our way to the other side has no parallel. It’s a great tool for sensory stimulation. It enables the child to hone their core strength. and improve motor skills. It allows kids to overcome their aversion to confined spaces and creates confidence in themselves
·Trampolines - Great for relieving stress, releasing the “ happy “ hormones known as endorphins, and burning the energy in a constructive manner.
Come visit the new sensory gym in our center which is a happy, safe, and secure space as part of the Pediatric Therapy provided by us.
