“What if my child doesn’t use it?” - How to Introduce Sensory Tools Successfully

“What if my child doesn’t use it?” - How to Introduce Sensory Tools Successfully

“What if my child doesn’t use it?” - How to Introduce Sensory Tools Successfully

You’ve done the research, found something that could really help your child, and placed the order. It arrives, you offer it to them… and they ignore it, push it away, or flat-out refuse.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. I hear this worry all the time from parents, and I’ve felt it myself. It’s frustrating when you’ve invested in something to make life easier, only for it to end up untouched.

The good news? This is incredibly common- and it doesn’t mean the tool won’t work for your child. Often, it’s just about how and when we introduce it.


Why this happens

There are lots of reasons why a child might not use a new sensory tool straight away:

  • It’s unfamiliar- New textures, sounds, or sensations can be overwhelming at first.

  • The timing isn’t right-  If they’re already tired, hungry, or dysregulated, they might reject anything new.

  • They don’t see its purpose yet- Kids need to understand how a tool fits into their world.

  • Change can feel like a demand-  Especially for kids with PDA (Persistent Drive for Autonomy), anything that feels like “you must” can trigger resistance.


How to introduce a new sensory tool successfully

  1. Model the use
    Show your child how you use it- without making it a “lesson.” If it’s a body sock, hop in and pretend you’re a superhero. If it’s a chew tool, keep one on your desk and use it while you work.

  2. Low-pressure exposure
    Leave it somewhere visible so it becomes part of the environment. No pressure to use it- just let curiosity build.

  3. Link it to their interests
    Use it during something they already enjoy. A fidget while watching their favourite show. A visual timer while baking together.

  4. Pick the right moment
    Introduce it when they’re calm and regulated- not in the middle of a meltdown or transition.

  5. Build it into routines
    Consistency is key. Using a visual timer every morning during breakfast, or routine cards before bed, helps it feel safe and predictable.


Real-life example

When we first brought a body sock into our home, one of my boys wanted nothing to do with it. It sat on the couch for weeks. Then, one day, he climbed in during a game of “cave explorers” and now it’s a daily part of his wind-down routine. Sometimes, it’s just about giving them time and space.


Choosing the right tool from the start

If you’re not sure where to begin, try:

  • Shopping by need- Our website lets you browse by regulation goals, sensory preferences, or settings.

  • Asking for advice- Therapists, educators, or other parents can often suggest a great starting point.


A gentle reminder

Every child’s sensory journey is different. Just because something isn’t used right away doesn’t mean it won’t become a favourite later. Be patient, keep it available, and remember- you’re doing a great job by exploring ways to support your child.

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