Does your child ever come home with so much energy that you just can't calm them down?
We’ve all been there! Sometimes, after a long day of sitting still and following rules, a child’s sensory system is "hungry" for input. They aren't trying to be difficult; they are sensory seeking. Instead of asking them to "sit still" (which is actually harder for them in this state!), try giving their bodies the specific input they are craving with these 3 Quick Resets:
1. The "Heavy Work" Strategy (Proprioception)
When kids crash, jump, or wrestle, they are looking for "heavy work" to feel where their body is in space. This is the most grounding type of input.
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The Wall Push: Have them put their hands on the wall and try to "push the house over" for 20 seconds.
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The Human Burrito: Roll them up snugly in a favorite blanket and give firm "bear hugs."
2. The "Organizing" Snack (Oral Input)
The muscles in the jaw are powerful tools for self-regulation. If they are feeling scattered, try a snack with "resistance."
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The Thick Shake: Have them drink a smoothie or yogurt through a thin straw.
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The Big Crunch: Offer carrots, apples, or frozen grapes to provide calming rhythmic input to the jaw.
3. The "Linear" Reset (Vestibular)
If they are spinning out of control, steer them toward linear (straight line) movement, which is more organizing for the brain than circular movement.
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Animal Walks: "Can you bear crawl to the kitchen?" or "Let’s hop like a frog to the bath!"
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Slow Rocking: If you have a rocking chair or a porch swing, slow, rhythmic movement can help lower their heart rate.
