Today’s guest post comes from the people at Special Needs Essentials, a website that specializes in products and resources for special needs families. Today’s post explains how weighted blankets benefit kids with special needs. 

How Weighted Blankets Benefit Kids with Special Needs

Have you ever heard of weighted blankets? These revolutionary tools provide pressure and sensory input, similar to a good hug. They are made of plastic pellets, evenly distributed in a quilted pattern in order to provide a widespread sensation of pressure. Studies have proven that the pressure provided by hugs or weighted tools enables the release of serotonin, a hormone that calms and relaxes the body. It also stimulates oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feeling of contentment and willingness of social bonding, among others.

This sensation is particularly valuable for individuals affected by autism and other sensory seeking individuals. They can use weighted blankets as a calming tool or simply as a regular blanket at night. During the day, you can try using it when you feel anxious, aggressive or just want to be comfortable. Sit and wrap yourself in your blanket or lay down and stay there a few minutes to hours, as long as you feel the benefits. At night, weighted blankets used in place of regular blankets will help your child go to sleep faster and stay asleep better.

Pay attention to buy a washable blanket made with non-toxic materials, as it is not always the case. As for the color, your child may appreciate the calming effect of solid blue. Some blankets have the ability to be warmed in your dryer or cooled in your freezer, thus providing the additional benefit of adapting to your child’s favorite temperature. Fringes can provide additional sensory input too, enabling the person to run their fingers around and play with them. The suggested blanket weight is 10% of your weight plus 1 pound, but it is best to check with your physician or therapist.

Weighted vests and weighted lap pads are also on the market, providing a different kind of pressure for sensory seeking individuals. Find your favorite weighted tool today!

Special Needs Essentials is dedicated to offering essential materials that can enhance the quality of life for people with special needs, their families, and their support communities. SNE specializes in educational, therapeutic, play to learn, living aids, and sensory products. The intent of these skill-builders varies and includes providing sensory input, improving motor function, increasing cognitive development, and providing daily living assistance. Overall, SNE intends to enhance developmental skills in individuals of all abilities.

Your Take on Weighted Blankets?

Has your family had experience with weighted blankets? What do you think of them? Leave a comment in the box below. 

Read more about the research behind weighted blankets at these links:

Calming Effects of Deep Touch Pressure in Patients with Autistic Disorder, College Students, and Animals
Serotonin and Prefrontal Cortex Function: Neurons, Networks, and Circuits Molecular Neurobiology

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