Sensory Integration and Sensory Wands by Zofia

Millions of people across the globe benefit from sensory supports throughout a given day to help regulate or calm the mind and body. In fact, we are all using supports to help self-regulate throughout a day. Drinking coffee, wearing sunglasses, swaying in our seats, clicking our pens- these are all commonly used ways to give our bodies what we need to feel good and to take on our days.  Most people learn ways to give their bodies what they need in a way that 'looks appropriate,' to avoid standing out or looking 'different,' because no one wants to stand out in a way that could be perceived as 'inappropriate.' 

For those diagnosed with with autism, Down Syndrome, sensory processing disorder (SPD), or other developmental disabilities, not only do the same concepts apply, but the needs are amplified.  The sensory needs are often greater, and so is the desire to get these sensory needs met in a way that looks appropriate to peers, communities, and society.  The Sensory Wands created by Zofia from MySensoryArt.com provide a solution to these needs.  

Zofia's Sensory Wands are not only beautiful, hand-made, and perfect to discretely slip into a purse or backpack; but they are also a multi-sensory tool that can be used to provide visual, tactile, and proprioceptive sensory input.  For anyone who benefits from sensory input in these areas throughout a day, a tool like this is priceless.  Beyond the artistic and many sensory benefits of Zofia's wands, they are additionally a tool that can be used to help express emotion.  
 
For example, the wands can be used to shake and shimmy when excited (possibly as an alternative or accessory to hand flapping/ jumping); they can be used to happily wave to a friend while in quarantine; they can even be used to applaud a performance well done (as opposed to the sensory overload that comes with a 'round of applause').  

As one of Zofia's Business Support Team members and as an educator with over 15 years of experience working with individuals diagnosed with autism and related disorders, I am so impressed by Zofia, for not only creating this tool to help soothe her own sensory system but for going beyond that and sharing her beautiful wands with others whose lives may be improved because of them.