Overall, kids endure a range of emotions and experiences, many of which are overwhelming and hard to process. One great thing I have come to recognize the benefit of using for my kids is a Chalk Sensory Walk!
Being 7 months pregnant with our third child and keeping up with my three-year-old and two-year-old is a constant drain on my energy. As a result I love that the Chalk Sensory Walk activity can be mostly passive for me. I draw it. I demonstrate it. Then, I sit and watch. Easy peasy!!
Sensory Walks have become increasingly popular in schools due to the many benefits for students. Some benefits include sensory processing, physical activity, deep load activities for sensory processing disorders, and motor control. Additionally, Sensory walks make terrific ‘brain breaks’ and use kid’s energy, sensory input, and body awareness in a productive and enjoyable way so that they can then sit calmly or redirect themselves back to focused tasks that may be overwhelming.
How I Used the Chalk Sensory Walk
I recently created a Sensory Walk on my driveway using sidewalk chalk, a few minutes, and a little bending. My three-year-old woke too early from her daily nap and was cranky and struggling to follow my directions; in response my kiddos and I went outside and took the opportunity to exercise it out instead of getting yelled at.
Through movement and singing, my daughter fully woke herself up and worked out some of her frustrated energy. An added benefit was her witnessing my excitement and pleasure, which added to her feeling of accomplishment. Imagine how much healthier that was for us both than yelling and punishing her!
The really cool thing?
She only used the Chalk Sensory Walk on our driveway for about twenty minutes, but her behavior and emotional control were improved for the remaining hours of the day despite not finishing her nap!! For an overtired toddler that’s saying a lot in and of itself! Woohoo!
What Makes a Good Sensory Walk?
A great sensory walk will be one that engages a child’s senses and requires them to connect their physical movements with their sensory input (vision, touch, etc.,). Here are a few common elements that you can use as inspiration to create a Chalk Sensory Walk at home.
- Gross Motor Movements- Hopping, jumping, winding along a squiggly line, dancing, running, etc.,
- Fine Motor Movements- tracing lines on walls, tapping small dots, etc.,
- Educational Concepts- Counting, adding and subtracting, words or alphabet patterns, incorporating science themes like rain drops falling or bees buzzing near flowers
- Even social affirmations like “I am capable, I am strong, I am going to have a good day” throughout the path
What are some ways you get your kids developing these skills? Have you ever tried a Sensory Path or something similar?
