How to Make a Sensory Swing

Autistic children and those with sensory processing disorders often have difficulty with sensory experiences. They might be ultra-sensitive or inadequately sensitive to visual cues, sounds, smells, tastes and physical touch. They might also have issues with spatial awareness and balance. A sensory swing allows a child with sensory processing problems to experience gentle motion and touch in a safe environment. Install one in your home to give your child the sensory stimulation or soothing he needs.

Things You'll Need

• 15 yards of Lycra or Spandex material
• Heavy eye bolt
• Carabiner or chain link
• Plywood
• Power drill
• Staple gun

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Instructions

• 1

  Drill a prep hole in the room’s ceiling the correct size for a heavy eye bolt, using a power drill. Screw in the eye bolt tightly.

• 2

  Attach a carabiner or chain link through the eye bolt. This piece will allow the swing to move more freely.

• 3

  Cut a piece of plywood into a 12-inch diameter circle. Drill two holes near opposite edges large enough to run a width of fabric through. The exact width will depend upon the weight of your swing fabric.

• 4

  Insert one end of a 15-yard length of Lycra or Spandex fabric into either hole, ensuring that the fabric loop below the circle is not twisted. Pull at least 6 inches through—or more, if the fabric loop is brushing the floor—and then tightly tie the ends together in the carabiner or chain link. Use a staple gun to secure the fabric to the plywood circle.

• 5

  Open the fabric loop and sit in it, testing its ability to support your weight. Rock gently back and forth. If the swing is too close to the floor, pull the fabric up from the top. If your child’s feet won’t touch the floor, let some material down from the top. If the swing feels at all unstable, screw the eye bolt in more tightly.