Your Sensory-Friendly Toolkit
We will likely all, at some point in our lives, face sensory challenges. Sometimes it’s an over-responsiveness to sounds, smells, touch, sight, or taste. Other times, we are under-responsive and have difficulty seeing, hearing, etc.
Whatever the case, sensory challenges can have a huge impact on daily life. They can change the way we relate to others and affect our well-being. Luckily, as society gets more responsive to these differences in brain processing, we are seeing the rise of products designed to help with these issues. So, let me show you some of the things that have worked for me, and a few ideas and items that friends and family swear by.
Explore Sensory Toys by Type
Sensory fidget toys are widely used by children and adults to provide tactile, visual, or auditory stimulation through repetitive motion. If you want to learn more about the advantages, disadvantages, and age recommendations for each of these toys, please use this article: Different Types of Sensory Fidget Toys and Their Advantages >.
Small handheld devices that spin around a central bearing.
Compact cubes with buttons, switches, dials, and rollers on each side.
Soft, squeezable toys made from foam, gel, or rubber.
Silicone toys with pushable bubbles that make a soft popping sound.
Interconnected curved pieces that twist and bend endlessly.
Small magnetic pieces that click, snap, or connect.
Includes liquid motion bubblers, glitter tubes, or color-changing toys.
Understanding Sensory Issues
Understanding the vocabulary around sensory issues is really important because it gives us the words to describe experiences that can otherwise be hard to explain. When we know terms like hypersensitivity, hyposensitivity, sensory seeking, or sensory avoiding, we can better recognize what we or someone else is feeling and how to get better support.
What Is Sensory Processing?
Sensory Processing has to do with how the nervous system receives, organizes, and responds to sensory input. Here’s an easy explanation.
Hypersensitivity vs Hyposensitivity
Understanding hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity patterns to see why us and others react differently in daily life.
Common Conditions with Sensory Issues
Learn how many people with sensory processing differences experience challenges in everyday life, often alongside certain conditions.
The Behavioral Signs of Sensory Issues
How covering ears, picky eating, avoiding textures, constant movement, or difficulty with transitions have to do with sensory issues.
Noise-canceling headphones can be invaluable for prople with autism and hypersensitivity challenges, as they can help reduce sensory overload and provide a sense of calm in noisy environments. They work by either blocking out background noise or playing soothing sounds, aiding in focus and relaxation. If you want to learn more, click here to explore the key features to consider when picking the perfect pair of noise-canceling headphones! Read More >
More Articles & Guides
A little bit of everything, including some personal suggestions and experiences. I will show you product comparisons (with real user stories and ratings), in-depth articles exploring specific technologies and tools, and how-to guides to learn more about sensory challenges.
Different Types of Sensory Fidget Toys and Their Advantages
Fidget toys are widely used by children and adults. Here are the most common types of sensory toys and the specific advantages each offers.
Helping Kids with Autism Thrive: The Role of Occupational Therapy
Learn how occupational therapy helps children with autism improve daily skills, manage sensory challenges, and build independence and focus.
Can’t Stand Your Hair? Some Ideas Before You Shave It All Off
For some people, especially those with hypersensitivity, hair can be a constant source of sensory input. Here are some potential solutions.
What Is a Compression Vest? + Top Picks
We take a look at the growing popularity of sensory products for adults dealing with stress, anxiety, or burnout and see some product ideas.
Guides by Kids Age
A breakdown of sensory toys and tools by age group, from infants (0-12 months) through toddlers, pre-schoolers, and early school age to teens (13+ years).
Recommended Sensory Toys for Infants (0–12 months)
Learn more about toys that stimulate sight, sound, and touch in gentle ways (like soft rattles, textured teethers, crinkle toys).
Recommended Sensory Toys for Toddlers (1-3 years)
Toddlers (ages 1–3) are at a fascinating stage: they are more mobile, curious, and eager to explore their environment than ever before.
Recommended Sensory Toys for Preschoolers (3-6 years old)
Learn how sensory toys in playtime can significantly benefit preschoolers by supporting their sensory, motor, and emotional development.
DIY Sensory Corner
Tips, hacks, and printable guides for creating sensory-friendly spaces at home.
Sensory DIY Spotlight: Noise-Free Zone – Create a Simple Quiet Corner
A quiet corner is a small, cozy space set aside for calm and regulation. Here are some ideas to create your own noise-free zone at home.
Sensory DIY Spotlight: Build a Sensory Swatch Book
Different textures can either calm, stimulate, or help us refocus when our senses feel a little overloaded. Here are some DIY ideas.
Sensory DIY Spotlight: Weighted Lap Pad with Household Items
You don’t need sewing skills or supplies to make your own weighted blanket—just a pillowcase, beans/rice, and something to keep it secure.
Sensory DIY Spotlight: Make Your Own Calm Jar
A calm jar (glitter jar or sensory bottle) is a tool that can help you focus, grounding, and emotional regulation. Here’s how to make one.
Featured Products
Discover a world of tools and products designed to support your sensory needs and enhance your daily life. Curated by a fellow neurodivergent person who struggles daily with overstimulation and sensory input.
Teething Silicone Straws Sticks for Sensory Relief
Designed for sensory exploration and oral motor development, these silicone teether tubes are perfect for babies and children with sensory needs.
iClever BTH20 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones for Kids
The iClever BTH20 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are thoughtfully designed to support children with autism and sensory sensitivities.
Sensory Necklaces and Bracelets Set for Chewing
The Olugu sensory chew necklace and bracelet set is a durable, safe, and stylish solution for children with ADHD, ASD, SPD, or oral sensory needs.
Vanmor 10-in-1 Busy Cube for 18+ Months
The Vanmor Montessori Busy Cube for Toddlers is an 8-sided hands-on sensory toy designed to support early learning through play.
JBL Tune 770NC Adaptive Noise Cancelling Headphones
The JBL Tune 770NC are wireless over-ear headphones that combine adaptive noise cancelling with a long-lasting battery and user-friendly features.
Set of Silicone Magnetic Slider Fidgets
Designed with bright colors and smooth magnetic connections, these toys let children twist, snap, and rearrange pieces for a fun sensory experience.
Gummy Bear Sensory Fidget Toy by NeeDoh
The Schylling NeeDoh Gummy Bear is a tactile sensory fidget toy designed to provide stress relief and promote focus. Shaped like a classic gummy bear.
Silicone 3D Sensory Cube Board Fidget Toy
Made with soft, flexible silicone, this cube features a variety of textures, buttons, and pressable elements that invite squeezing, poking, and rubbing.
Morandi 6 Pack Sensory Chew Necklaces
Designed with safety in mind, each necklace features a breakaway clasp and a discreet, wearable design suitable for boys, girls, and adults.
Floriogra 28dB SNR Ear Protection for Kids
With a 28dB SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio), these earmuffs help reduce exposure to loud environments. Ideal for kids aged 3 to 16.