In ABA therapy, incorporating sensory activities can be incredibly beneficial for children’s development. One engaging and accessible sensory craft is the creation of a sensory cube. This simple yet effective tool provides a multisensory experience that aids in sensory exploration and development. Let’s dive into how you can make your own sensory cube and explore its benefits.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cardboard Box or Wooden Cube: The base of your sensory cube can be a cardboard box or a wooden cube, depending on your preference and availability.
- Variety of Fabrics or Materials: Choose six different types of fabrics or materials that vary in texture and color. Opt for fabrics with different tactile qualities, such as smooth, rough, fuzzy, or bumpy textures.
- Fabric Glue: This adhesive will help you affix the chosen fabrics or materials onto the sides of your cube securely.
- Scissors: You’ll need scissors to cut the fabrics to fit the sides of the cube accurately.
Crafting Process:
- Prepare Your Cube: If you’re using a cardboard box, ensure it’s sturdy and clean. If you’re opting for a wooden cube, make sure it’s sanded and smooth.
- Cut the Fabrics: Cut each fabric or material to fit the sides of the cube. Aim for equal-sized pieces to maintain consistency.
- Apply Fabric Glue: Use fabric glue to adhere the pieces of fabric or materials onto the respective sides of the cube. Ensure each piece is firmly attached and there are no loose edges.
- Let It Dry: Allow the sensory cube to dry completely before handling or using it. This ensures that the fabrics are securely bonded to the cube’s surface.
Benefits of the Sensory Cube:
- Sensory Exploration: The sensory cube offers children with autism the opportunity to explore various textures and colors in a controlled and interactive manner. By touching, feeling, and manipulating different fabrics, children can engage their senses and develop tactile awareness.
- Calming Effect: Sensory activities like exploring a sensory cube can have a calming effect on children with autism. Engaging in tactile experiences can help regulate sensory processing and reduce anxiety or agitation.
- Promotes Focus and Attention: Through sensory exploration, children with autism can enhance their ability to focus and attend to tasks. The tactile feedback provided by the sensory cube can help improve concentration and engagement during learning activities.
- Supports ABA Therapy Goals: The sensory cube aligns well with the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, which often incorporates sensory activities to promote skill development and behavior modification. It can be integrated into ABA sessions to reinforce learning objectives and provide sensory stimulation.
Crafting a sensory cube is a simple yet powerful way to incorporate sensory activities into your child’s routine. By engaging in tactile exploration, children with autism can enhance their sensory processing skills, promote relaxation, and support their overall development. Whether used at home, in ABA therapy sessions, or in educational settings, the sensory cube offers a versatile tool for promoting sensory engagement and supporting children with autism in their journey towards growth and self-discovery.
Interested in learning more about how ABA therapy can benefit your child? Please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you on this journey. Give us a call at (855) 444-5664 to get started!
Looking for more sensory friendly crafts? Checkout our blog on how to make your own Sensory Board, and DIY Rainbow Rice sensory bin.
