Weighted stuffed animals are similar to regular plushies, but they have extra heft. They can weigh up to 5 pounds. The extra weight comes from a special fill, like pellets or grains. This provides a deep pressure stimulation, which is thought to calm the nervous system.
A weighted stuffed animal can be useful for people of all ages. However, selecting the right weight is crucial to maximize its therapeutic benefits. Several factors, including age, size, sensory needs, and recommendations from professionals, should be considered when making this decision.
They can help with anxiety
Weighted stuffed animals and blankets are becoming more popular among teachers, mental health professionals, and parents. They are filled with glass beads, metal balls, or plastic pellets to add weight and help people feel comfortable. They are designed to be no more than 10% of your body’s weight, and they are great for people with anxiety or sensory issues.
The main reason weighted stuffed animals are so effective for anxiety is that they provide proprioceptive input, which calms the nervous system. This is the same process that happens when you hug someone and can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, including trembling, jitters, and increased heart rate.
While there are many weighted stuffed animal options available, you can also make your own on a budget. First, select a stuffed animal that’s easy to hold. Most weigh between one and five pounds. Next, fill it with weighted material, such as flax seed, bird seed, or dried beans.
They can help with sensory processing
Weighted stuffed animals and blankets can help with sensory processing disorders, especially anxiety. They work like a hug and use deep pressure touch therapy to calm the brain and reduce stress. These soft toys are designed to feel good and can be carried around all day. They can even be used on long car rides and vacations.
Although the research on these products is limited, it suggests that they can be a useful tool in helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety. These include muscle aches and tension, rapid breathing and heart rate, and trembling. In addition, weighted stuffed animals can also promote better sleep and improve focus and attention in children with ADHD.
There is little clinical guidance on how much a weighted stuffed animal should weigh. However, general guidelines suggest that they should be no more than 10 percent of the user’s body weight. They should also be machine washable and made from soft, durable materials.
They can help with ADHD
A weighted stuffed animal can be used to calm kids with ADHD and anxiety disorders. These plushies, which usually weigh between two and five pounds, are a favorite of occupational therapists because they provide deep pressure touch that mimics the feeling of being swaddled or held. This helps calm and organize the central nervous system, which can improve sleep and reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress.
They can help with restlessness, which is a common symptom of ADHD. The deep pressure stimulation activates the parasympathetic nervous system, slowing down the heart rate and relaxing tense muscles. This also results in the release of happy hormones, such as dopamine and serotonin.
A weighted stuffed animal can also help with stimming, which is a self-stimulatory behavior that occurs when children are nervous or anxious. Stimulating the proprioceptive receptors in the body with a weighted toy can help children remain calm and focused on their school work. This can also help them focus in therapy sessions and during social interactions.
They can help with sleep
Weighted stuffed animals are the latest trend to help kids and adults sleep better. They are similar to weighted blankets and use deep pressure touch, which is calming and reduces cortisol levels, to soothe the nervous system and promote relaxation. They are also effective at reducing anxiety and stress, especially in children with autism or ADHD.
Weighted animals are plush toys that weigh two to five pounds and can be comforting for children and adults with sensory processing disorders, insomnia, or anxiety. They can also be used as a replacement for a blanket or pillow. Some are microwavable, freezeable, or scented for additional comfort and relaxation.
Occupational therapists often use these items in therapy with children with sensory processing disorders, and they are becoming more popular for adults as well. These toys are easy to use and portable, so they can be used anywhere. They are made with a variety of fabrics, so you can find one that feels right for you.
