Sensory Exercises, Items, Tools for ADHD

Emily Harris
December 28, 2023
7 min
a person holding two fidget spinners - a sensory stimulation for individuals with ADHD

Are you ready to dive into a world of fun activities and tools designed to help you or a loved one with ADHD? ADHD, which stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, can sometimes make it tough to stay focused and calm. But fear not; we have a treasure trove of strategies and adaptations that can make a real difference.

Picture this: activities that engage your senses, tools that keep you on track, and items that turn everyday tasks into fun adventures. Whether you're a parent, a teacher, or someone with ADHD, this guide will open up a new world of possibilities. 

So, if you're ready to discover the world of sensory magic and sensory tools for ADHD, keep reading. We are about to embark on an exciting journey to make life easier and more enjoyable!

Sensory Items for ADHD

This section will introduce you to different and best sensory items for ADHD. They can make a big difference in the lives of people with ADHD. These sensory items are like little helpers. They can soothe, enthuse, and support a person in their daily activities.

We all perceive the world around us differently. Moreover, for people with ADHD, sensory objects can help them to calm down and focus. There is something for everyone. These tools can be used at home, school, or work, providing a sense of calm and focus.

So, get ready to discover a world of sensory treasures. They can help make every day easier and simpler for people with ADHD. Whether you are a parent, teacher, or person with ADHD, these sensory items can make a difference!

These items provide a tactile, visual, auditory, or oral sensory connection for people with ADHD. 

Fidget Spinners

Fidget spinners have gained popularity as items for people with ADHD. These small devices have rotating elements that you can rotate with your fingers. The rhythmic movements and tactile feedback help some people with ADHD improve concentration. You may be able to reduce anxiety in ADHD.

Stress Balls

Stress balls are soft, squeezable items that provide tactile stimulation. Squeezing a stress ball helps relieve accumulated tension and stress. It makes them useful for treating ADHD symptoms. They are a subtle and unobtrusive way to release excess energy or anxiety.

Chewable Jewelry

Chewing jewelry is usually made of silicone or other safe materials. You can use them as sensory items for ADHD. Some people with ADHD find chewing such jewelry soothing. They use them to improve concentration, especially when oral fixation is common.

a woman lying back with her eyes closed, wearing white over-ear headphones

Also, discover our article on brain balance exercises.

Sensory Tools for ADHD

This section will introduce you to several practical and engaging tools. They have a positive impact on the lives of people with ADHD.

Imagine having sensory tools for ADHD in addition to exercises. They help improve concentration, manage emotions, and bring a sense of calm. These sensory tools are like faithful companions, always ready to help when needed.

Are you a parent looking for ways to support your child? Or are you a teacher who needs aides for your classroom? Maybe you just a person with ADHD looking for strategies to make life more peaceful? Either way, you'll find a wide range of options here. You can use these tools at home, at school, or work.

Get ready to discover a world of sensory tools. Every item here is fully designed to improve the lives of people with ADHD and learn how they can be tailored to the different types of ADHD. Let's go on this journey together and learn how these tools can make a difference.

Noise-Canceling Headphones

Noise-canceling headphones can help reduce or block out outside sounds. For people with ADHD, these headphones can create a calmer and more focused environment. It will allow for better concentration on tasks.

Visual Timers

Visual timers are visual aids that display the passage of time. Such sensory tools for ADHD are useful for managing your time effectively. You will be able to complete different tasks or chores.

Aromatherapy and Essential Oils

Aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils to create the desired sensory environment. Some essential oils, such as lavender or chamomile, have calming properties. These can help people with ADHD relax and relieve stress.

hands playing with kinetic sand, a sensory activity for individuals with ADHD

Sensory Exercises for ADHD

This section will introduce you to a series of fun and practical exercises. People have developed them to help people with ADHD.

Consider these exercises as fun and useful games. They can help improve concentration, manage energy, and create a sense of calm. Each exercise is like a little adventure. It allows you to explore and experience different sensory experiences. Incorporate these sensory exercises for ADHD into your daily routine. This way, you can discover new ways to work successfully with ADHD.

So, get ready to discover the world of sensory exercises. Learn how they can positively impact your life or the life of someone you care about. Let's embark on this exciting journey together!

Mindfulness and Breathing Exercises

Mindfulness exercises and breathing exercises can be used to improve self-regulation. These practices teach people with ADHD to be more mindful. They reduce impulsivity and improve emotional control, similar to sensory items for ADHD.

Sensory Play

Sensory games include a variety of activities. These include playing with kinetic sand, exploring textures, or working with sensory containers. These activities can help people with ADHD regulate their sensory experiences. They will be able to develop fine motor skills.

Yoga and Stretching

Yoga and stretching exercises promote sensory integration and relaxation. These exercises focus on controlled movements and breathing. It can help people with ADHD improve overall sensory perception and self-regulation.

Conclusion

Sensory items, tools, and exercises offer a wide range of options to help people with ADHD effectively manage their symptoms. While these strategies cannot be a stand-alone solution, they can complement existing treatments and help people daily. The key is to find the appropriate sensory interventions for each individual, as ADHD is a highly variable condition. By incorporating these sensory interventions into daily life, people with ADHD can improve their concentration, reduce stress, and improve their overall well-being. It is important to consult with healthcare professionals and therapists to tailor these strategies to each person's needs.

Stimming in ADHD, a common self-regulation technique, can be integrated into sensory strategies for additional support.

To further enhance the effectiveness of sensory interventions for ADHD, consulting the ADHD Guide can be immensely beneficial. This resource lists a variety of ADHD specialists, including a directory of coaches in Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, Perth, Sydney, and the Gold Coast.

FAQs 

Can sensory tools completely replace other ADHD interventions?

Sensory tools can complement ADHD interventions. But they cannot completely replace them, as a multimodal approach is often more effective.

Are these sensory tools suitable for all individuals with ADHD?

Sensory tools may benefit some people with ADHD. However, their effectiveness varies; not everyone finds them appropriate.

Can sensory exercises be integrated into a daily routine for individuals with ADHD?

Sensory exercises can be integrated into a daily routine for individuals with ADHD. It will promote self-regulation and concentration.

Is it necessary to consult a professional before incorporating sensory tools?

We recommend consulting a professional such as a therapist or occupational therapist. They can match the sensory tools to the individual's specific needs and ensure they are safe and effective.