Welcome to the Sensory Tools Series, where we will be exploring the array of items that fall under the “sensory tool” umbrella term, how we can find and test tools that meet our needs, and create a sensory supply kit that is right for us. 

In Part 1 we will be taking a closer look at the types of sensory tools that are out there and how they might be used.

There are a huge variety of sensory tools out there, and a simple Google search of the term might yield an overwhelming number of results. Rather than detail every single sensory tool that could be out there, a helpful framework for describing sensory tools is by their general purpose. 

Some tools might have overlapping purposes, such as nose plugs which help with mitigating a sensory challenge and focusing specifically on smell. The goal of such a framework is to begin narrowing down what type of tool might best suit your needs based on your personal areas of need.

So let’s take a closer look at our categories!

Focus tools are the types of sensory tools that sometimes unfairly get branded as a distraction by people who do not understand their purpose. While it is true that in some cases, extra sensory input can be distracting, in other cases, certain types of sensory input that the user is more in control of can make it easier to focus on one central task. 

A consistent white noise, for example, might be preferable to random ambient background that can be completely unexpected and out of your control. Alternately, fidgets or sensory stickers can offer a simple outlet that doesn’t require much concentration, so the vast majority of someone’s energy can focus on the task or conversation at hand. 

If you find your attention split at inconvenient times, a focus tool might be a helpful option for you!

Mitigation tools are meant to help manage challenges associated with a particular environment, and most especially sensory challenges. 

Some mitigation tools are very commonly used, while others might be less common and stand out. Sometimes, mitigation tools that are not commonly used, such as sunglasses indoors or special communication tools in a formal environment, might be unfairly frowned upon or prohibited. Yet these mitigation tools are often the only way to make certain environments tolerable for people with strong sensory sensitivities. 

If a space cannot accommodate a person’s sensory needs, then mitigation tools are often the next best and sometimes only option! Some examples of mitigation tools might include headphones in loud environments, sunglasses in spaces with harsh lighting, or vitamin pills to supplement limited diets for someone with intense texture sensitivity.

Sensory specialties are tools specifically focused on a particular sense, whether it is for mitigation, self-regulation, or enhancement. If you are navigating a particular sensory challenge or need, honing in on tools related to the sense itself can be a helpful way to land on useful options, even if it is not immediately obvious exactly what would be most helpful for meeting your specific needs. 

People interested in exploring tools for hearing might consider hearing aids, headphones, or white noise machines. Those interested in visual inputs might want glasses, sunglasses, or specialized lighting. For physical touch it may be worth exploring fidget tools, sensory stickers, or clothing with safe fabrics. 

For smell, it is worth thinking about nose plugs, acceptable sprays or perfumes, or a good aeration system for a living space. For taste and texture, it can be helpful to explore alternate safe foods, nutrition supplements, and backup safe food supplies. Sensory specialties don’t have to be limited to the 5 main senses either! Weighted blankets are a classic tool for people who self-regulate with a sense of pressure. 

People who struggle with interoception might set alarms for themselves so they don’t work out too long or forget to eat or a device that clearly shows the temperature outside while they decide on what to wear for the day.

We hope that breaking sensory tools down into a few broad categorical purposes has helped offer some baseline ideas for how you might approach trying out sensory tools in your own life. 

If you would like to share your own experience seeking out sensory tools, advice on sensory tools that have been especially helpful for your, or because you want to see us cover this topic more in depth then we would love to hear from you! 

Just drop us a line at hello@autismgrownup.com and stay tuned for Part 2, where we will discuss strategies for matching sensory tools to needs.