In the Autism Room, each student has certain activities that are calming and sometimes prevent tantrums. For some it’s drawing, for others it’s looking at books based on numbers. Some students like to put magnetic letters in order.

One sweet boy loves to play with sensory rice. We have several clear plastic tubs the size of a shoebox that are partially filled with rice. Some tubs also have sand mixed in. Each tub has an assortment of scoops, spoons, or paintbrushes. There are often small plastic toys or shells in the mix.

My friend loves to stir and scoop the rice back and forth in the tub. Sometimes he’ll bury toys or his hands. Even if he was frustrated and screaming moments before, he quickly calms down when he has access to the sensory tub.

He reminds me that we all need to find what lowers our stress and use it to stay happy and healthy. I just completed a summer conference for teachers. One of the classes focused on calming the raging storms of stress. The presenter (LeAnn Nickelsen) informed us that life is 10% of what happens to you and 90% of how you respond to it. We need to have a stress toolbox that we can use to manage our stress. Some tools she suggested included exercise, finding your passion, writing, visualization, breathing, and listening to relaxing music. One song in particular that is specifically designed for relaxation (and recommended by neuroscientists) is “Weightless” by Marconi Union. I am listening to it right now, and find it very relaxing. Feel free to check it out.

I’m thankful for the reminder to take time to find something relaxing to lower my stress. Experts agree with you, my little autistic friend. So keep playing with the rice. I will listen to music. And we will both be healthier because of it.