Bean bags are used for specified amounts of time. Their benefits include deep pressure to the nervous system of the child which can help him calm and focus.
There are other types of weighted materials and objects. A bean bag chair is any easy-to-get item that fits the bill.
Consider the Design and Color of the Chair
Many children with autism are obsessed with a particular color and/or design. If the child loves red cars, look for a bean bag chair with the design of the popular movie. If the child adores trains, look for a bean bag with trains. Remember the object of the bean bag chair is for it to be appealing so that the child will want to use it, nit necessarily to match the décor of the room.
Evaluate the Size of the Bean Bag Chair
Bean bag chairs come in many sizes. There are tiny ones all the way up to over-sized bean bags that are designed to seat two people. One consideration when purchasing a bean bag chair is who will use it as well as how it will be used.
Decide Where the Bean Bag Chair Will Be Used
If the bean bag chair will only be used in the child’s room or only in front of the family room TV, the chair can be slightly larger that normal. This over-size provides extra deep pressure surface.
Discuss How the Bean Bag Chair Will Be Used
Will the child simply use the bean bag chair to sit in? Perhaps one that is slightly larger is fine. If however, the child will be moving the bean bag chair, it is important to buy one that he can easily and safely carry.
One activity that is often down to help children with autism focus is to have them carry a weighted object. This does not mean a very heavy object. It does mean an object that is reasonable “work” for them. With a bean bag chair, the child can carry the chair from one room to another. The bean bag chair offers seating, deep pressure, and the opportunity to carry a weighted object.
Another use for two bean bag chairs is to let the child sit in one. The second bean bag chair is placed across the child’s chest and lap. The pressure from all sides of the torso is calming and focusing for many children with autism.
Bean bag chairs are often on sale at back-to-school time. They are available at discount stores and toy shops. Consider the benefits of a bean bag chair as well as the fun of this popular seating. With the benefits of weight bearing activities as well as deep sensory pressure, the cost of a bean bag chair is well worth its value.
Lynn Moore - Moore is a freelance writer, experienced special education teacher, and mother of two. She has worked as a developmental therapist for ...
