Strategies for Sensory Seekers

In our last post, we explored how sensory seeking can show up in different ways. If you missed it, head over here to check it out.

Sensory seekers tend to crave more input. They may seem like daredevils, appear not to notice pain, or have a hard time sitting still. If you’re still reading, chances are you’re realizing your child might be a sensory seeker. If you’re unsure, this post on sensory seeking and sensory avoiding may help clarify things.

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Sensory Systems Are Connected

It’s helpful to remember that while we often talk about the sensory systems one at a time, they’re all connected and constantly working together. When one system is over- or under-stimulated, it can affect how we function and regulate in other areas.

Here’s a relatable example:
You’re driving home after a long, stressful day. Maybe traffic was bad, or the noise and demands of the day left you drained. By the time you walk in the door, your sensory system is already overloaded. Then your family greets you—excitedly, loudly, and all at once. Normally, you’d love to hear about their day, but in that moment, it’s just too much. You snap—even though you don’t want to.

From a sensory perspective, your system was already full. That added burst of auditory input was just too much. This isn’t about impatience—it’s your nervous system protecting you when it’s running on empty.

Even if this exact situation doesn’t resonate, you’ve probably had moments when your response felt “off” after a particularly draining experience. This is how our sensory systems interact—and why dysregulation in one area can ripple into others.

Because of this interconnectedness, it’s recommended to follow a complete sensory diet—even if your child primarily seeks input in one area. Supporting the full sensory system helps promote overall regulation. Learn more about what a sensory diet is here.

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Activities for Sensory Seekers

Here are some strategies for sensory seekers broken down by system. These can help provide the input your child may be craving while supporting regulation across the board:

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1. Tactile (Touch)

• Skin brushing
• Water, slime, rice, or sand bin play
• Fidgets or textured toys

2. Vestibular (Movement & Balance)

• Swinging, spinning, or rolling
• Hanging upside down
• Jumping on a trampoline or from furniture safely

3. Proprioception (Body Awareness)

• Yoga poses
• Heavy work: animal walks, pushups, wall sits
• Weighted blankets or compression clothing

4. Auditory (Hearing)

• Listening to music
• Listening games like Simon Says
• Playing with instruments or sound-making toys

5. Olfactory (Smell)

• “Name that smell” game with spices
• Carry a preferred scent (like vanilla) on a cotton ball in a baggie
• Use of essential oils

6. Oral (Mouth & Taste)

• Crunchy and chewy foods
• Straw games (e.g., straw soccer: blow a cotton ball into a goal)
• Provide safe, appropriate chew items

7. Visual (Sight)

• Search-and-find or matching games
• Light-up toys, lava lamps, or Lite-Brites
• Visual tracking activities like popping bubbles or I Spy

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Keep Observing and Adjusting

One of the most powerful tools you have is observation. Watch how your child responds to different types of input.

Does oral input help improve their regulation overall? Great—use that knowledge and build it into their routine.

And remember: needs can shift. A strategy that worked last week might not be as helpful today. Stay curious, flexible, and open to change.