The Science Behind the Sensory Bag

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in communication, social interaction, and sensory processing. Many individuals with ASD experience either hypersensitivity (over-responsiveness) or hyposensitivity (under-responsiveness) to sensory input, which can make everyday environments feel overwhelming or dysregulating—especially in unfamiliar or high-stress situations such as medical emergencies.

Our Sensory Bags were designed to address these challenges by offering a portable toolkit of sensory regulation tools. Each item serves a specific purpose grounded in principles of occupational therapy, sensory integration theory, and behavioral health support. Below, we explore the role each component plays in promoting calm, communication, and emotional regulation.

Noise-Canceling Headphones

Auditory hypersensitivity is common in individuals with ASD. Research indicates that sudden or sustained loud noises can trigger distress, anxiety, or meltdowns. Noise-canceling headphones provide auditory modulation, reducing environmental sound input and supporting focus, regulation, and safety during overstimulating events (Kern et al., 2006).

Bubble Wrap

While simple, the tactile and auditory feedback from popping bubble wrap can provide proprioceptive input and a repetitive motor task that enhances sensory modulation. This can act as a calming activity during high-stress periods or help maintain attention during transitions.

Sunglasses

Visual hypersensitivity—particularly to fluorescent lighting or bright environments—is frequently reported in ASD. Tinted lenses or sunglasses help filter out overstimulating visual input, improving comfort and allowing individuals to better tolerate bright or clinical settings (Leekam et al., 2007).

Pop-Its

These tools offer structured, repetitive motor input that engages both the somatosensory and auditory systems.. The predictability of the popping sensation can provide self-soothing feedback, making them a reliable tool for calming and sensory engagement, especially for those with ADHD or ASD.

Slow-Rise Stress Ball

This tool offers deep pressure input through squeezing, which is a form of proprioceptive input known to reduce stress and improve body awareness. It also supports fine motor development and muscle control, often targeted in occupational therapy interventions.

Liquid Motion Bubbler

Visual tracking and calming visuals help reduce visual overstimulation and promote attention. These tools activate the visual system in a low-stress, slow-paced manner, often used in calming corners or sensory rooms to redirect hyperactivity or anxiety.

Sequin Snap Bracelet

The reversible texture of sequins provides tactile feedback, while the act of snapping and wearing the bracelet can deliver light pressure input. It also gives users a socially acceptable, wearable outlet for fidgeting and repetitive motion.

Spikey Sensory Rings

These small tactile rings stimulate nerve endings in the fingers and hands and can support self-regulation by providing proprioceptive input. They can also reduce behaviors such as nail biting, skin picking, or hand flapping by offering an alternative form of repetitive motion.

Mini Squishies

These soft, pliable toys provide consistent tactile and proprioceptive feedback. Their versatility allows users to squeeze, pull, or manipulate them quietly, which can assist with managing sensory-seeking behaviors and maintaining regulation in overstimulating environments.

Koosh Ball

With its soft, stretchy tendrils, the Koosh ball provides a combination of tactile, visual, and proprioceptive input. It can be used for hand-eye coordination, fidgeting, or simple sensory stimulation, making it useful across a wide range of sensory profiles.

Chew Necklace

Oral sensory-seeking behavior is common in many individuals with ASD. Chewable necklaces offer safe oral motor input, which can help reduce anxiety, support concentration, and serve as a self-regulation tool without the risk of chewing unsafe or non-sanitary objects.

Custom Communication Cards

Communication breakdowns often heighten distress, especially for nonverbal or selectively mute individuals. These cards use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) principles, combining images and simple words to support expressive communication in high-stress or low-verbal moments. When customized for specific EMS services or hospitals, they also reduce confusion through environmental familiarity.

Weighted Lap Pad (3 lbs)

Grounded in the principle of deep pressure stimulation, weighted items are shown to reduce sympathetic nervous system activity and promote parasympathetic activation—resulting in decreased anxiety, improved focus, and a calming effect on the nervous system (Chen et al., 2011). A lap pad delivers this input in a subtle, portable form that can be used in vehicles, classrooms, or waiting rooms.

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Sensory regulation is a foundational component of well-being for individuals with ASD—particularly in environments where they may already feel vulnerable or overwhelmed. By providing a carefully selected array of evidence-informed sensory tools, our Sensory Bags offer not only comfort but also empowerment. They support self-regulation, reduce escalation, and help caregivers and first responders communicate more effectively with neurodivergent individuals.

As awareness of sensory processing challenges continues to grow, so does our responsibility to create inclusive, trauma-informed spaces. These bags are one step toward that future—built with science, backed by compassion, and driven by the belief that everyone deserves to feel safe and understood.