Weighted blankets, which are heavier than regular blankets due to the filling of materials such as plastic pellets or glass beads, have gained popularity for their therapeutic benefits, especially for children. Here are some potential benefits:
5 Benefits of Weighted Blankets for Children
1. Improved Sleep: Weighted blankets can help children fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer by providing a sensation of being hugged or swaddled, which can be soothing and calming.
2. Reduced Anxiety: The deep pressure stimulation (DPS) from weighted blankets can help reduce anxiety and stress by promoting the release of serotonin and melatonin, hormones that help regulate mood and sleep.
3. Sensory Processing: For children with sensory processing disorders (SPD), the consistent, gentle pressure from a weighted blanket can help provide sensory input that is calming and organizing.
4. Calming Effect: Children with ADHD, autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and other conditions often experience high levels of restlessness and agitation. Weighted blankets can provide a calming effect that helps in reducing these symptoms.
5. Focus and Concentration: Using weighted blankets during activities such as homework or reading can help improve focus and concentration by reducing sensory overload and promoting a sense of calm.
Role of the Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists (OTs) play a crucial role in the assessment and implementation of weighted blankets for therapeutic use. Their responsibilities include:
1. Assessment: OTs assess the child’s specific needs, including their sensory preferences, weight, height, and the severity of their sensory processing issues. This ensures that the weighted blanket is safe and effective.
2. Customization: Based on the assessment, OTs can recommend the appropriate weight and size of the blanket. Typically, a weighted blanket should be around 10% of the child’s body weight, but this can vary.
3. Education: OTs educate parents, caregivers, and teachers on the proper use of weighted blankets, including how to integrate them into the child’s daily routine safely.
4. Monitoring: OTs monitor the child’s response to the weighted blanket, adjusting recommendations as necessary to ensure the blanket continues to meet the child’s needs without causing any adverse effects.
5. Safety: Ensuring the safe use of weighted blankets is critical. OTs provide guidelines on how long the blanket should be used, typically not more than 20-30 minutes at a time for younger children, and how to observe for any signs of discomfort or distress.
6. Integration into Therapy: OTs may incorporate the use of weighted blankets into broader therapeutic interventions, using them alongside other sensory integration techniques to enhance overall therapeutic outcomes.
Conclusion
By providing a structured and individualized approach, occupational therapists ensure that the use of weighted blankets is both effective and safe, contributing to the overall well-being and development of the child.
Transform Life is a NDIS registered organisation that provides support for your autistic teenager, as well as support to you as a parent to best navigate the challenges your teenager and family face on a daily basis.
Book your consult with an experienced Therapist at Transform Life to explore how OT can support you and your family.
