Shop Subscribe

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Schoolyard Blog | Teacher Resources | School Specialty

Classroom must haves for teachers plus essential teacher supplies, lesson plans and activities.

schoolyard-logo
  • Education Essentials
  • Inspiration & Planning
  • Learning Spaces
  • Topics
  • Search
  • < Previous post
    Next post >
    Choosing the Right Swing for Students with Special Needs

    Special Needs
    Cecilia Cruse • Feb 21, 2019 • Last Modified: Mar 9, 2022

    Choosing the Right Swing for Students with Special Needs

    Accurately processing vestibular information is key to properly using vision, preparing posture, maintaining balance, planning actions, moving, calming down and regulating behavior. Occupational and Physical Therapists trained in ASI (Ayres Sensory Integration) know that swinging can help tap into the power of the vestibular system in the inner ear.

    Occupational Therapists and Physical Therapists have long used swings as part of their treatment protocols for children with SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder) ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and overall Developmental Delay.

    Yet outside of a clinical therapy practice, swings as part of active childhood play seem to be disappearing due to an increase in playground safety issues, reduced or absent recess time, and increased interest in technology/gaming activities.

    5 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Swing

    Savvy educators, therapists and parents are finding creative ways and places to reintroduce the benefits of swings. Here are 5 factors to consider when choosing a swing:

    Shop: All Movement & Swings

    1. Linear Movement

    It may depend on each child’s sensory system, but in general, linear (back and forth) rocking is usually calming while circular (rotational) movement can be more stimulating. For classrooms, quiet or study spaces, a gentle swing with limited movement like the Egg Chair is a good choice.

    2. Dynamic Movement

    Some children may be under responsive to vestibular input or need additional practice with posture and balance. These kids may benefit from a swing that allows for more dynamic movement like the Frog Swing or Moon Swing along with a structured protocol for use.

    3. Deep Touch Pressure

    Many children need extra deep touch pressure input to help the proprioceptive system (muscle and joint receptors) function properly. This extra deep touch may help with spatial boundary definition and body awareness. The Joki Swing or the Cocoon Swing might be the right option for calming and self-regulation.

    4. Flat Base Options for Added Flexibility

    For motor-based activities that work on eye hand coordination, crossing the midline or bilateral motor skills a flat base swing allows the child to sit, tall kneel, stand or tummy lie while doing motor planning tasks such as tossing bean bags into a bucket. The Platform Swing or the Soft Ride Glider are versatile and durable for this role.

    5. Safe Installation

    Be sure you have the proper hardware and installation instructions for all ceiling mounted or stand along swing frames. Swing hardware and frames should be inspected regularly for signs of wear. Adult supervision is recommended for all swing activities.

    More Sensory-Based Intervention Help & Ideas

    If you’re looking for more advice and ideas to engage and encourage students with special needs, be sure to visit the Special Needs topic page and see what’s new. Then, take a moment to head over to the online store to find hundreds of specialized solutions and tools to improve the learning experience for students with special needs.

    Read More: Sensory Based Interventions for Vestibular Input

    Shop All: Special Needs

    Cecilia Cruse

    Cecilia Cruse, MS, OTR/L has a BS degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Florida, and her Master’s degree in Education from Georgia State University. She is SIPT certified and has over 25 years’ experience in pediatrics with school-based services, acute care, and outpatient pediatric settings.
    Read more posts by Cecilia Cruse–>

    Facebook Comments

    Recommended

    Why Books Matter: 3 Steps to Building a Successful Classroom Library

    Reading & Literacy

    Why Books Matter: 3 Steps to Building a Successful Classroom Library

    Inclusive Solutions to Support Social & Emotional Learning

    Special Needs

    Inclusive Solutions to Support Social & Emotional Learning

    School Specialty Acquires SchoolKidz to Make Supply Kitting Solutions More Accessible for Education and Non-Profit Use

    News

    School Specialty Acquires SchoolKidz to Make Supply Kitting Solutions More Accessible for Education and Non-Profit Use

    3 Ways to Observe Dyslexia Awareness Month in the Classroom

    Reading & Literacy

    3 Ways to Observe Dyslexia Awareness Month in the Classroom

    Explore The Schoolyard

    Education Essentials

    Inspiration & Planning

    Learning Spaces

     

    TopicsShop Subscribe

    Copyright © 2023 School Specialty, LLC. All rights reserved. Privacy Statement · Social Media Statement · Do Not Sell My Personal Information - CA Resident Only

  • CATEGORIES

    • Education Essentials
    • Inspiration & Planning
    • Learning Spaces
  • TOPICS

    • Arts & Crafts
    • Early Childhood
    • Special Needs
    • Physical Education
    • Educational Technology
    • Student Resources
    • Organization & Storage
    • Classroom Management
    • STEAM & STEM
    • 21st Century Learning
    • Reading & Literacy
    • Healthy Students
    • Teacher Life
    • Back to School
    • Celebrations & Seasons
    • Out of School
    • News
    • Math
    • Science
    • Topics
    • Shop
    • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • LinkedIn
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube