What are the benefits of weighted therapy in a classroom setting?

Weighted therapy, also known as deep pressure therapy, involves the use of weighted items, such as weighted blankets, vests, or lap pads, to apply deep pressure to the body.

This type of therapy has been found to have several benefits for children in a classroom setting.

Benefits of weighted therapyGirl and fox in red dimple

  1. Improved focus and attention. Weighted therapy has been shown to help children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) to focus and pay attention for longer periods of time. The deep pressure helps to calm their nervous system and reduce hyperactivity. Weighted Hug Vests combine pressure and weight, functioning as a reassuring deep hug. These can be easily worn in a classroom setting for short periods at a time.
  2. Reduced anxiety and stress. The deep pressure provided by weighted items such as lap pads and neck wraps can have a calming effect on children, reducing their anxiety and stress levels. This can help to create a more relaxed and comfortable learning environment.
  3. Better sleep. Weighted therapy can also help children to sleep better at night. This can improve their mood and ability to concentrate during the day. A Weighted Blanket can help achieve this. Weighted Blankets are available in a range of fabrics, including a wipeable, fire-retardant fabric which can be used in the classroom to help with meltdowns.
  4. Increased body awareness. The added weight from the therapy items can help children to become more aware of their body. This helps improve their proprioception (the sense of where their body is in space). This can improve their ability to participate in physical activities and sports.
  5. Improved behaviour. Some studies have found that weighted therapy can help to reduce disruptive and aggressive behaviour in children with ADHD and other behavioural disorders.

Overall,  there are many benefits of using weighted therapy in a classroom.

It can be a useful tool in creating a more supportive and comfortable classroom environment for children, particularly those with ADHD or other sensory processing difficulties.

Please note

It’s important to note that weighted therapy is not suitable for all children.

Weighted products should be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.