Finding entertaining activities that don’t involve large crowds and high temperatures in the summer can be difficult for anyone — especially for those with sensory processing issues. However, there are still plenty of ways that these individuals can make the most of summertime fun! Some enjoyable activities for those with sensory processing issues include:
Indoor Adventures
Heading over to the local museum or aquarium is a great way to get out of the house and explore while staying cool! Many museums and cultural attractions are even trying to become more sensory friendly, so everyone can enjoy their exhibits. Several of these attractions offer services like:
In fact, The GRAMMY Museum Mississippi is now offering a sensory friendly program called “Sensory Day — Music for All.” One Saturday per month, the museum modifies their experience in order to reduce sensory overload. Sensory rooms, guides, and sensory bags are all available upon request. By calling ahead and learning about available services, individuals with sensory processing issues will be well prepared with options that fit their needs.
Arts and Crafts
Different types of creative activities are known to help those with sensory issues, especially art. Because there’s a variation of mediums one can explore, there are many different sensory processing issues that art can help soothe. Some types of art you can try include:
If you’re looking for a more specific idea, an ocean sensory bottle is a great craft for all ages! You only need a few supplies:
Once you have the supplies you need, follow these steps:
Step 1
Take any labels off the bottle and clean thoroughly.
Step 2
Put shells into the bottle, then fill the bottle a little over halfway with water.Add a few drops of blue food coloring and fill the rest of the bottle up with baby oil.
Step 3
Seal the bottle tightly. To prevent leaks, hot glue the top on.
Step 4
Decorate! Add stickers of fish to the outside or paint a beautiful ocean scene.
Photo from www.happytoddlerplaytime.com
Nature Walks
Spending some time in the great outdoors can be healing for everyone. On days when the temperatures aren’t too hot or there’s a nice breeze in the evening, taking a walk outside is a great sensory-friendly activity. Some places you could walk include:
Quiet, peaceful, and surrounded by beautiful scenery — it’s no wonder so many individuals with sensory processing issues love nature walks!
Swimming
Swimming is a classic summertime activity that can turn a boring day into a fun one — especially for those with sensory processing issues! This activity creates constant pressure on the body, which can cause an overall sense of relief and relaxation. If you’re looking to hit the pool in a sensory-friendly way, try these tips:
A Safe and Supportive Community
Looking for a place where your loved one with an intellectual or developmental disability will be encouraged to be creative and express themselves? The Baddour Center is dedicated to providing a model residential community for adults with intellectual disabilities and autism in an environment that promotes maximum growth intellectually, spiritually, physically, socially, emotionally and vocationally. Learn more about The Baddour Center’s Performing and Creative Arts program and contact us today to schedule a tour!
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