Sensory breaks are short, structured breaks that allow individuals, particularly those with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) or other sensory challenges, to regulate their sensory input and help them remain focused and calm. These breaks provide opportunities to either increase or decrease sensory stimulation based on the individual’s needs. Sensory breaks are often used in educational settings, including homeschooling, to help students manage sensory overload or under-stimulation.

Key Purposes of Sensory Breaks:

• Regulation: They help balance sensory input by allowing time to either reduce overwhelming stimuli or engage in activities that provide the sensory input the body needs.
• Focus: Sensory breaks can help students refocus and improve concentration after periods of work.
• Calmness: They promote relaxation and reduce stress or anxiety by offering a moment to reset sensory systems.

Types of Sensory Break Activities:

Movement Breaks: Jumping, running, dancing, or stretching to engage the vestibular and proprioceptive systems.

Calming Activities: Deep breathing exercises, listening to soothing music, or quiet time in a dim room.

Tactile Breaks: Playing with sensory toys (e.g., squishy balls, kinetic sand) or using fidgets.

Visual Breaks: Watching calming visuals like lava lamps or staring at nature scenery.

Auditory Breaks: Using noise-canceling headphones or listening to white noise.

Proprioceptive Input: Activities like pushing against a wall, carrying a weighted object, or using a weighted blanket.

These breaks are typically scheduled throughout the day or used when signs of sensory overwhelm (e.g., irritability, fidgeting) begin to appear. Sensory breaks can be tailored to the individual’s specific sensory needs, making them highly effective for improving focus and emotional regulation.