Sensory Circuits
If you’re looking for effective ways to help your child with sensory regulation, Sensory Circuits – Autism Advice is a video you don’t want to miss. Created by the Wandsworth Autism Advisory Service, this 14-minute video explores how sensory circuits can help children meet their sensory needs through a series of structured activities.
What’s a Sensory Circuit?
A sensory circuit is a series of activities designed to help children regulate their sensory experiences, supporting them in feeling more grounded and ready to learn. An occupational therapist explains how to create a circuit at home and highlights how these exercises can be done safely and effectively with your child.
Three Phases for Sensory Regulation
The sensory circuit is divided into three key phases, each with its own purpose:
Alerting (Red)
This phase kicks off the circuit with energizing activities like jumping jacks or using a trampoline. These exercises activate the central nervous system, helping your child prepare for learning. Ensuring these activities are done in a controlled environment is important for safety and effectiveness.
Organizing (Amber)
Next comes the organizing phase, which includes tasks that require focus and coordination, such as balancing exercises or sorting objects. These activities encourage the brain and body to work together, organizing sensory input in a way that builds both motor skills and sensory integration
Calming (Green)
The circuit wraps up with calming exercises, like using a resistance band, to help soothe the body and calm the nervous system. Ending with this phase prevents overstimulation and supports a smooth transition to the next activity or routine
Each circuit can be completed in 10-15 minutes, making it easy to fit into your child’s day, whether as part of their morning routine or a midday break. By consistently following this sequence, children learn to manage their sensory needs better, reducing anxiety and enhancing focus.
The Wandsworth Autism Advisory Service does a fantastic job in this video, breaking down each step and providing practical tips that can empower both parents and practitioners. If you’re looking to bring more structure and sensory support into your child’s life, this video offers a simple yet effective tool to get started.
