Sensory Inputs Hub: The Eight Systems & Practical Supports
Explore visual, auditory, tactile, vestibular, proprioceptive, oral, olfactory, and interoception. For each sense: OT‑informed strategies, vetted tools & toys, room setups, and printables.
Eight senses
Use the search above to filter by keywords (e.g., “glare”, “swings”, “chew”).
Visual
Light, color, movement, and visual complexity. Tips for glare, flicker, and visual schedules.
Auditory
Volume, tone, and background noise. Ideas for noise‑reduction and rhythm‑based regulation.
Tactile
Touch, textures, temperature, and vibration. From clothing tags to fidgets and sensory bins.
Vestibular (Movement & Balance)
Motion, head position, and balance. Swings, rockers, spinners & safe setup tips.
Proprioceptive (Deep Pressure & Heavy‑work)
Body position, muscles & joints. Heavy‑work activities, compression wear, weighted supports.
Oral
Mouth‑based input and oral‑motor tools: safe chew options, straws, pencil toppers, and oral skill supports.
Olfactory
Smell and scent sensitivities. Reduce triggers and use scents thoughtfully.
Interoception
Internal body signals: hunger, thirst, bathroom, energy, emotions. Build awareness & routines.
Multisensory / Regulation
Combine inputs to meet goals (calm, focus, energy). Planning tools, routines, and school supports.
Browse by age & guides
By Age
Guides & Resources
Quick compare: common patterns
| Profile | How it might look | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| Over‑Responsive | Input feels too strong; avoids certain situations. | Gradual exposure, control intensity, offer breaks. |
| Under‑Responsive | Misses cues; slow to notice changes. | Increase intensity/contrast; clear cues, movement prompts. |
| Sensory Seeking | Craves more input to regulate. | Offer planned input safely; embed into routine. |
| Mixed | Different responses across contexts. | Personalize; combine calming + alerting supports. |
Keep exploring
SensoryGift • Sensory Inputs Hub
FAQ
- What are the eight sensory systems?
- Visual, auditory, tactile, vestibular, proprioceptive, oral, olfactory, and interoception. This hub links to practical supports for each.
- How do I choose tools for a specific sense?
- Start with a goal (calm, focus, energy). Pick one portable tool and one environment tweak. Test in short trials and adjust intensity.
- Are “weighted” and “compression” the same?
- No. Weighted adds deep pressure via weight; compression gives steady squeeze via fabric. Some people prefer one, some layer both.
Information only — not medical advice.