Unlocking Calm: How Sensory Strategies & Movement Can Transform Your Child’s Emotional World

Imagine watching your child, once overwhelmed by anger outbursts and sensory overload, begin to thrive—finding calm, focus, and even improved skills in school. Recent research and expert insights reveal that by understanding and supporting the nervous system, particularly through sensory stimulation and movement, we can help our children expand their “window of tolerance” and navigate the world with greater ease.

A striking example comes from the story of a young autistic boy who struggled with severe tantrums and difficulty regulating his emotions. Neuroscientist Karlien Balt employed practical sensory tools—a weighted blanket, swing, and hammock—to soothe his nervous system. For children like him, whose nervous systems are more rigid, sensitive, and vulnerable, these targeted strategies provide something concrete to focus on, effectively filtering out overwhelming sensory input. As Balt explained, think of sensory gating like a farm gate: it usually allows some stimuli in while keeping others out. But for many neurodivergent children, that gate is broken, letting in everything at once. Simple sensory stimulation techniques, like brushing or using a weighted toy, can help restore balance.

But there’s more to it than just sensory tools. The vagus nerve—a key player in our nervous system regulation—also plays a vital role.

When stimulated, it increases oxytocin levels, the “bonding hormone,” and helps our children—and us—find a state of calm and resilience. Techniques such as self-massage and intentional touch not only boost vagal tone but also reinforce emotional connection and self-compassion. For instance, using your fingertips to gently massage the neck or massaging the soles of your feet can be a quick, self-soothing tool for those stressful moments.

Movement is another powerful ally in this journey. Engaging in vigorous physical activity—be it long walks, runs, or even weightlifting—has been shown to improve vagal tone and, in turn, expand the window of tolerance. For busy moms, incorporating somatic practices like gentle yoga or mindful stretches can help both you and your child manage stress more effectively. In fact, after integrating movement and sensory stimulation into his routine, the young boy not only experienced fewer tantrums but also saw improvements in his handwriting, reading skills, and even sleep quality.

Research indicates that individuals with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders often exhibit reduced vagal tone-

A measure of the activity of the vagus nerve—which can adversely affect their social engagement. Enhancing vagal tone not only expands the window of tolerance, allowing for better regulation of stress and emotional responses, but also stimulates the release of oxytocin, the hormone famously linked to love and bonding. This dual effect underscores the potential benefits of therapies aimed at improving vagal tone, paving the way for enhanced social connections and overall emotional well-being.

As a parent, understanding these strategies empowers you to support your child’s emotional and sensory needs in practical, accessible ways. It’s not just about reducing tantrums—it’s about giving your child the tools to regulate their emotions, build resilience, and thrive in a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming.

When we learn to harness the power of our nervous systems, we take our power back.

We begin to understand the “why” behind our child’s behaviors and can gently guide them toward healthier responses. What sensory tools or movement practices have you tried with your child? How have they made a difference?

Comment below with your experiences or any questions.