Harkla Weighted Vest for Kids - Neoprene Compression Vest for Autism, ADHD - Ages 2 to 4 - Adjustable Kids Weighted Vest with 2lb weight - Breathable and Washable Compression Vest - Small

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There is no solid evidence that it helps reduce stereotypy or stimming in a child with autism, but therapists have noted a decrease in this behavior when a weighted vest is worn. This is supported by a study that showed that children with autism who wore weighted vests had an 18 to25 percent increase in on-task completion of fine motor activities (VandenBerg, 2001). Therapists and caregivers claim that weighted vests can help calm a distressed child. This is based on the theory that the deep pressure provided by the vest creates a physical reaction that “reduces excitability and decreases arousal” ( Blanche & Schaaf, 2001). When not to use weighted vests

Occupational therapists have used weight in their therapy for a long time now. It started more than 30 years ago when specialists like Dr. Temple Grandin showed the effects of deep touch therapy as a tool to relieve stress and anxiety in autistic patients.The clinical significance is just another way to say, “does this treatment actually work for my patients in their normal environment?” This data does not make any statement towards other “sensory” experiences that are play-based, functional, or explorative in nature.

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Ted Kangaroo. I received compensation in exchange for writing this post. However, all opinions expressed in this post are my own, and I only work with sponsors whose products or services I believe in and would use myself. Keep in mind that removing the vest is just as much of a sensory experience as donning it in the first place. So directly after wearing, you will likely see a benefit as well and then your child will again, get used (habituate) to the feeling without the weight of the vest. He uses materials he gathered around without so many stores buying materials. That is why the cost is very minimal. A weighted vest increases the intensity of a specific physical activity, especially in fitness and exercise. The child can simply work out, bike, walk, or carry out chores while wearing a weighted vest. How to Choose the Right VestTherapists have been using weighted objects like blankets and vests as a therapeutic device for those diagnosed with autism for years. The extra weight can help adjust hormone levels in the body associated with mood. In turn, that can lead to lower stress levels. The History of Weighted Clothing For Autism Stereotypical behaviors are repetitive body movements or moving of objects. This behavior is often seen in people with autism and other developmental disabilities.

Some therapists dont recommend wearing it for more than an hour at a time, while others allow for it to be worn during an entire school day.

Eventually, therapists found weighted blankets to be a good way of applying this new type of therapy, creating a calming sensation as gravity gently pushes fabric down on the body. Kind of like a really, really good hug. Shaw, S. R. (2002). A school psychologist investigates sensory integration therapies: Promise, possibility, and the art of placebo. NASP Communiqué, 31(2). Retrieved August 9, 2006, from http://www.nasponline.org/publications/cq312si.html.

Bestbier L, Williams TI. The immediate effects of deep pressure on young people with autism and severe intellectual difficulties: Demonstrating individual differences. Occup Ther Int. 2017;2017:7534972. Published 2017 Jan 9. doi:10.1155/2017/7534972 Palm weights or hand weights are also a type of compressed sensory stimulator that help improve focus for individuals with autism. They are specifically designed to assist them when engaging in writing, coloring, or drawing. When utilizing it for your child, please ensure there is adult supervision. Lap weightsGenerating a weighted vest wearing schedule should be done in consultation with your child’s OT. Unfortunately, the research is inconsistent in giving a clear guideline for wearing schedules, however, it is recommended to initially introduce the weighted vest during a preferred activity. If the child should wear the weighted vest for the 20-40 minute activity, be sure to remove the vest for the same time period to allow the nervous system to reset. Some parents and educators feel that the compression vests are helpful during especially stressful times (i.e. school assemblies, doctor’s appointments). Should your child require additional, more consistent input throughout the day, consider adding a tight-fitting undershirt (lycra-based). Compression vests are currently less likely to have specific data on their use, as they are often used a part of a treatment plan, either with weighted vests or other sensory items. Weighted vests are far more popularized in the research arena, but below you will find the best available evidence for compression vests. Some therapists don’t recommend wearing it for more than an hour at a time, while others allow for it to be worn during an entire school day.