About this resource
A sensory kit holds items that help a person feel calm, focused or comfortable, especially when out and about. This planner helps choose items based on the person's preferences, plan where the kit is kept and when it is used, and check it regularly.
Purpose
To help the person have their preferred sensory supports available when needed.
Who it is for
Primary profession: Disability support workers. Also relevant for occupational therapists, positive behaviour support practitioners.
Client or participant group: Children and adults who benefit from sensory supports.
Practice setting: Home, school, day programs and community outings.
Suggested uses
- Community outings
- Appointments and travel
- School and day programs
- Following an OT sensory assessment
Instructions for practitioners
- Choose items with the person, based on their preferences.
- Follow occupational therapy recommendations.
- Ask an occupational therapist before using weighted items.
- Check and restock the kit regularly.
Instructions for clients or participants
- Choose items you like.
- Pack your kit.
- Use it when you need it.
Accessibility considerations
Use photos of the person's own items.
Scope and limitations
A planning tool. Sensory supports for complex needs should be recommended by an occupational therapist.
Research basis
Evidence for sensory-based interventions is limited and mixed; this resource is for understanding a person's sensory preferences and adjusting environments, not a sensory treatment. Positive behaviour support aims to improve quality of life and reduce behaviours of concern by understanding their function and changing environments and skills.
- Allen, D., James, W., Evans, J., Hawkins, S., & Jenkins, R. (2005). Positive Behavioural Support: Definition, Current Status and Future Directions. Tizard Learning Disability Review, 10(2), 4–11. https://doi.org/10.1108/13595474200500014
- Case-Smith, J., Weaver, L. L., & Fristad, M. A. (2015). A systematic review of sensory processing interventions for children with autism spectrum disorders. Autism, 19(2), 133–148. https://doi.org/10.1177/1362361313517762
- NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. NDIS Practice Standards and Quality Indicators. https://www.ndiscommission.gov.au/rules-and-standards/ndis-practice-standards
What is included
A 2-page printable A4 PDF, including a practitioner notes page with the research basis (version 1.0).
Originality
Original Practitioner Plus content: wording, activity structure, layout and icons were created for this resource. No third-party worksheets, illustrations or text were reproduced. Symbols are original line drawings created for Practitioner Plus.
