Linen pack

Linen pack

Linen pack

Individual and whānau clothing requests

Individual and whānau clothing requests

Individual and whānau clothing requests

Individual and whānau clothing requests

Individual and whānau clothing requests

Individual and whānau clothing requests

Individual and whānau clothing requests

Weighted Friends

Excellent quality donated toys are made into weighted toys of varying weights between 1kg and 3 kg. A weighted toy should be no heavier than ten percent of the persons weight.

Weighted toys are used to provide a calming and grounding sensation, similar to a hug, which can help to regulate mood and reduce anxiety. The deep touch pressure from the weight can stimulate the proprioceptive system, which provides information to the brain about body position and movement, leading to a sense of security and relaxation. This can be particularly helpful for children experiencing stress, anxiety, or sensory processing difficulties. 

Here's a more detailed look at the benefits:

Calming and Grounding:
The weight of the toy can help to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm by stimulating the proprioceptive system. 

Mood Regulation:
The sensory input from weighted toys can help regulate mood and promote feelings of relaxation and well-being. 

Sensory Processing Support:
Weighted toys can be beneficial for individuals with sensory processing difficulties, helping them to better process sensory information and manage their reactions to stimuli. 

Therapeutic Benefits:
Weighted toys are often used in therapeutic settings to help individuals manage stress, anxiety, and other emotional or behavioral challenges. 

Comfort and Security:
Weighted toys can provide a sense of comfort and security, making them ideal companions for children who need extra support. 

Reduced Cortisol Levels:
The deep touch pressure can help lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) while increasing serotonin and dopamine, which promote feelings of happiness and relaxation. 

Focus and Concentration:
By providing a sense of calm and grounding, weighted toys may also help individuals improve focus and concentration. 

Customization:
The weighted toys can be custom-made, allowing for personalized weight and size options to meet individual needs. 

Recycled Materials:
Recycled materials can be incorporated into  weighted toys, promoting sustainability and reducing waste. 

Crinkle Buddies

These donated toys are filled with crinkly wrappers, especially suitable for those who like sounds and cause-effect.

Fidget Cube

These cubes are crafted by our volunteers and designed to keep brains thinking and hands busy. Each cube is different. They all encourage cognitive thinking and fine motor skills.

Lycra

Lycra has so many uses for a variety of sensory needs.  Stretchy bands, can be used to provide proprioceptive and vestibular input for individuals, promoting sensory regulation, emotional support and body awareness. 

Proprioceptive Input:

Wrapping the band tightly around the body can provide calming proprioceptive input, helping individuals stay focused.

Calming Space:

Create a snug space for calming "turtle moments". 

Lap Blanket:

Stretching the band across the lap during seated activities can provide proprioceptive input for focus and self-regulation.  

Movement and Stretching:

Encourage movement and stretching to music, using the band to create different movements like reaching, twisting, or pushing and pulling, which enhances body awareness and coordination. 

Motor Planning:

Activities involving crossing the midline (e.g., reaching across the body) with the band can improve motor planning and bilateral coordination. 

Visual Boundaries:

Lycra can be used to create clear, visual boundaries on the floor, like for circle time, helping with spatial awareness. 

Tug-of-War:

Using the band for tug-of-war can be a fun way to engage in gross motor movement and build strength. 

Obstacle Courses:

Use the band to create obstacles to crawl under, over, or through, adding an element of fun and challenge.

Dance and Movement Games:

Play music and encourage individuals to dance, freeze, and make shapes with their bodies while wearing the band. 

Important Considerations:

Individual Needs:
Observe how the individual responds to the band and adjust the activities accordingly. Some may prefer more or less resistance, or a specific type of movement. 

Safety:
Ensure the activity is safe and supervised, especially when using the band for movement or creating spaces. 

Professional Guidance:
If you have concerns about your child's sensory needs, it's best to consult with an occupational therapist or other qualified professional for personalized advice and recommendations.

By incorporating these activities, lycra bands can become a valuable tool for supporting individuals with managing sensory input, improving motor skills, and enhancing their overall well-being.