Sensory swings are more than just fun to play on. They offer incredible benefits for children with sensory processing challenges, autism, ADHD or anxiety. Spending time on a swing can help regulate the sensory system, improve focus, boost emotional well-being, and improve core strength and balance. How can swings do so much? Depending on how a child uses the swing– whether they are actively or passively swinging– it can support their sensory needs. 

What are Sensory Swings?

All swingsprovide controlled movement to stimulate the vestibular system. This type of input helps with balance, spatial awareness and sensory integration. Swings are often the centerpiece of many sensory gyms, and they come in a wide variety of styles to target different needs. Stretchy swings, such as theRaindrop Swing and theAcrobat Swingallow kids to go in many different positions on the swing, getting proprioceptive input to their joints. ASensaSoft™ Bolster Swingprovides a stable spot to sit or lay down, while aHammock Chair is perfect for gentle swinging. No matter how a child swings, they are getting valuable sensory input.

What is Active Swinging?

Active swinging is when the child moves their body to propel the swing on their own. They might pump their legs, shift their weight or use their arms to spin the swing. This type of active swinging provides more intense vestibular input and engages the proprioceptive system, too. 

The Buoy Ball Swingand theStanding Swingare good options to combine active swinging with muscle control. Adding other activities while swinging can work on core strength, motor planning, even visual motor skills. TheWeb Tower Swingbrings in a whole new element of muscle control by incorporating climbing while swinging.

The Benefits of Active Swinging

Active swinging is typically very alerting for the sensory system. Kids get sensory input they need to boost attention and energy levels. By actively moving the swing, they engage their core muscles and improve their overall body coordination. This combination of movement and input to the muscles encourages the brain to more effectively process sensory information. Children’s motor planning skills get a boost, too, as they learn to control their body movements.

Choosing the Right Swing Experience

Both passive and active swinging offer unique benefits; pay attention to your child’s sensory needs to determine what will be most beneficial. If they’re feeling overstimulated, passive swinging may help them calm down. On the other hand, if they’re sluggish or seeking intense sensory input, active swinging could be the better option. As long as your child does not begin to show signs of dysregulation and appears more balanced, they’re benefiting from their time on the swing.

Tips to Incorporate Sensory Swings at Home or in the Classroom

Find a safe space to install the swing. Try to put it in a quiet spot, so that kids can use it to calm if needed, and add safety mats underneath. Make the swing part of your child’s routine to harness its impact. Depending on the setting the swing can be part of a calming bedtime routine, a morning energy boost, or to smooth transitions between school activities. 

Combine the sensory swing with other tools to create a more immersive experience. Offer children noise reducing headphones and a weighted lap pad to enhance the calming environment a swing like the Cozy Compression Swing can provide. On the other extreme, you can use Weighted Textured Balls for kids to toss at a target while standing, kneeling, sitting or lying down on the Plywood Platform Swing.

Incorporating sensory swings as an integral part of children’s sensory routine provides a versatile way to support their development. Whether through the soothing rhythm of passive swinging or the energizing motion of active swinging, these tools can help kids feel more balanced, focused and in control. 

Explore our full range of sensory swings to find the best one for your child.