How to Make a Sensory Integration Swing

Children with autism, attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder utilize sensory equipment as a calming mechanism. Occupational therapists suggest a number of sensory items to calm or stimulate a child, including a swing. Sensory integration swings should not be used unless the child is recommended for such therapy. Sensory integration provides beneficial therapy if a specific sensory diet is followed by the child's physician or occupational therapist.

Things You'll Need

• Stud finder
• Electric drill
• Adjustable wrench
• 7/16 diameter galvanized eye screw
• Flat washer with a nut
• 2 yards Lycra fabric
• Fabric marking pen
• Ballpoint needle

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Instructions

• 1

  Find a beam or sturdy area that will hold the weight of a child. Wide doorways provide a strong support area in older homes. Use the electric stud finder to locate a beam or stud for sturdy placement of the eye screw.

• 2

  Drill an opening hole into the beam area using an electric drill. The hole depth must equal the length of the 7/16 diameter eye screw. The drill bit diameter should be appropriate to hold the eye screw in place.

• 3

  Insert the eye screw into the hole. Place a flat washer and nut on the eye screw. Tighten the nut into place. Use the adjustable wrench to finish screwing the eye screw into the beam.

• 4

  Measure and cut 2 yards of Lycra fabric. Lycra fabric boasts stretchy properties and is similar to spandex material.

• 5

  Slide one end of the fabric through the eye screw. Overlap the two ends of the fabric. Test the swing by placing different weighted objects into it to determine the right height for the child. Weight will force the swing down and the fabric will snugly hug the child.

• 6

  Sew the two ends of the fabric together once a height is achieved. For a secure swing, sew the overlapped ends 2 or 3 times. Sew using a ballpoint needle to prevent snagging of the material.