Over the years, one thing I’ve learned is that children on the autism spectrum don’t just need support in what they learn, but also in how they process the world around them. This is where sensory breaks play such a powerful role.
They’re not just “time-outs” or “pauses” — they’re intentional, structured moments that give kids space to regulate their bodies and emotions so they can re-engage with learning, play, or social situations.
Why Sensory Breaks Are Important
Many kids with autism experience the world through heightened senses. A light that flickers slightly, a classroom full of chatter, or the feeling of a scratchy sweater — things others may barely notice — can feel overwhelming or even painful. Overstimulation can lead to meltdowns, frustration, or withdrawal.
Sensory breaks act like a “reset button.” They allow children to manage sensory input in a safe way, which helps reduce stress, prevent behaviors from escalating, and create opportunities for success. From my experience, when sensory breaks are built into the day, children are calmer, more confident, and more engaged in their activities.
Different Types of Sensory Breaks
The right type of sensory break depends on the child. What calms one child may overstimulate another. That’s why I always try to individualize sensory strategies.
Movement Breaks
Movement is often the quickest way for kids to regulate. It provides proprioceptive input (awareness of the body in space) and helps release built-up energy. Examples include:
- Jumping on a trampoline
- Running laps or doing jumping jacks
- Animal walks like crab walks, frog jumps, or bear crawls
- Using resistance bands for stretching
I remember one student who loved doing push-ups against the wall. Just a minute of this gave him enough input to return to his schoolwork with focus.
Quiet Breaks
Not every child needs high-energy activity. For some, calm and quiet help them reset. Quiet breaks may look like:
- Retreating to a cozy corner with soft cushions
- Using noise-canceling headphones
- Looking through a picture book or puzzle
- Practicing deep breathing or mindfulness
I once worked with a girl who loved sitting in a small tent filled with pillows and dim lighting. After five minutes in her “quiet space,” she was ready to join group activities again.
Sensory Tools
Sometimes, sensory regulation can happen right at the table or during group activities with the right tools. These might include:
- Fidget toys like stress balls or spinners
- Weighted blankets or lap pads
- Chewelry (chewable jewelry)
- Sensory bins with rice, beans, or sand
One of my students used a weighted lap pad during circle time. This simple tool helped him stay seated and engaged with his peers.
When to Use Sensory Breaks
Sensory breaks work best when they’re used proactively rather than reactively. In other words, don’t wait for a meltdown before offering a break. I like to schedule breaks throughout the day, especially before or after transitions — times that can be hard for many children.
For example:
- A movement break before transitioning from recess to classroom activities.
- A quiet break after completing a challenging assignment.
- A quick fidget break during circle time to maintain focus.
That said, flexibility is essential. If I notice a child covering their ears, pacing, or showing early signs of distress, I’ll offer a sensory break immediately.
How Parents and Teachers Can Support Sensory Breaks
The beauty of sensory breaks is that they’re not just for therapy sessions — they can (and should) happen at home, in school, and even in the community.
At home, parents can:
- Create a calm sensory room with pillows, blankets, or soft lighting.
- Schedule short breaks between homework or chores.
- Use movement activities like dance parties or yoga to reset energy levels.
In classrooms, teachers can:
- Build sensory breaks into the daily schedule for all students.
- Allow children to use fidgets during lessons.
- Provide access to quiet corners or noise-reducing headphones.
When families, teachers, and therapists work together, sensory breaks become consistent and effective across environments.
Research Behind Sensory Breaks
Research supports what many of us see in practice — sensory breaks improve attention, reduce anxiety, and support learning. Studies have shown that movement-based breaks improve focus in children with autism and ADHD, while quiet sensory activities can reduce stress hormones and increase engagement.
The key is that sensory breaks aren’t just about “taking a pause.” They’re an essential part of a child’s learning plan, just like reading instruction or social skills training.
Supporting Families with ABA
At Little Champs ABA, sensory breaks are just one of many strategies we use to help children thrive. Our approach is personalized, focusing on what each child needs to feel calm, regulated, and ready to learn.
We proudly offer ABA therapy at home, school-based ABA therapy, and daycare ABA therapy. We also provide ABA parent training, so families can continue using strategies like sensory breaks outside of sessions.
Our team serves families in Colorado, Utah, and Virginia. If you’re ready to see how ABA therapy can support your child’s growth, reach out to us today. Together, we’ll build the tools and strategies your child needs to succeed.
FAQs
What is the purpose of a sensory break for autism?
A sensory break gives a child time to regulate their body and emotions, helping reduce stress and improve focus for learning and daily activities.
How long should a sensory break last?
Most breaks last between 5–10 minutes, but it depends on the child. The goal is to regulate, not to disengage completely from routines.
Can sensory breaks be used in public places?
Yes. Parents can use small fidgets, headphones, or short walks to help children regulate in grocery stores, restaurants, or other busy spaces.
Sources:
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10969120/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559155/
- https://www.sjf.ie/Portals/0/Overview%20of%20sensory%20breaks%20for%20home%20and%20school.pdf
- https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/sensory-break-activities/
- https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/professional-practice/sensory-strategies