Question 1

Can I claim sensory toys on NDIS?

Accepted Answer

Many sensory supports can be funded through the NDIS, but eligibility depends on whether items are directly related to your disability and your plan goals. Supports that commonly qualify include weighted blankets, compression vests, chew tools, noise-cancelling headphones and specific tactile toys — particularly when recommended by your occupational therapist and included in your sensory diet plan. Everyday items like standard balls or sand trays are generally considered household items and are unlikely to be funded. Always confirm with your NDIS planner and OT before purchasing, and keep your OT's written recommendation on file.

Question 2

Are sensory toys good for ADHD?

Accepted Answer

Yes — sensory toys can be highly effective for children and adults with ADHD. Motor input from fidget toys, stress balls or weighted lap pads activates sensorimotor pathways in the brain, which can help regulate attention, reduce impulsive behaviour and lower anxiety. Research supports allowing children with ADHD to use discreet fidget tools during seated tasks, as the movement can actually improve focus rather than distract. The key is matching the tool to the child's specific sensory profile — some respond best to proprioceptive (deep pressure) tools, while others benefit more from tactile or movement-based options.

Question 3

Is sensory processing disorder a diagnosis in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is not currently a standalone medical diagnosis in Australia — it does not appear in the DSM-5 or ICD-11 diagnostic manuals used by Australian clinicians. However, sensory processing differences are widely recognised and assessed by Australian occupational therapists, and many children receive OT support for sensory regulation without a formal SPD label. Australian practitioners often prefer terms like "sensory processing differences" or "sensory regulation difficulties." SPD commonly co-occurs with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD and anxiety, but can also occur independently.

Question 4

How heavy should a weighted blanket be?

Accepted Answer

The general guideline from occupational therapists is to choose a weighted blanket that is approximately 10% of the user's body weight. For example, a 30 kg child would typically use a 3 kg blanket, while a 70 kg adult might use a 7 kg blanket. In Australia, most weighted blankets are available in 3 kg, 4.5 kg, 5 kg, 7 kg and 9 kg options. Weighted blankets are not recommended for children under 2 years, or for anyone with breathing difficulties, sleep apnoea or circulation issues, without medical advice. Our weighted blankets guide includes a full weight-by-age reference table.

Question 5

Can a child be sensory seeking without being autistic?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — sensory seeking and sensory avoiding behaviours occur across a wide range of children, many of whom do not have an autism diagnosis. While sensory processing differences are more commonly associated with autism spectrum disorder, they also occur in children with ADHD, anxiety disorders, developmental coordination disorder (dyspraxia), and in some children with no co-occurring diagnosis at all. If you're concerned about your child's sensory responses, an assessment with a paediatric occupational therapist is the most reliable way to understand what's happening and identify appropriate supports.

Question 6

What is a sensory diet and how does it help?

Accepted Answer

A sensory diet is a personalised program of sensory activities and tools, developed by an occupational therapist, designed to give a child's nervous system the right type and amount of sensory input throughout the day. Just like a nutritional diet, a sensory diet is tailored to the individual — providing calming input when a child is overloaded, and alerting input when they're under-stimulated. A typical sensory diet might include morning proprioceptive activities (like carrying a heavy backpack or wall push-ups), a fidget tool or wobble cushion during school, and a calming wind-down using a weighted blanket at night.

Question 7

What sensory toys do occupational therapists recommend for autism?

Accepted Answer

Australian occupational therapists most commonly recommend sensory toys that provide proprioceptive (deep pressure), vestibular (movement) or tactile input for children on the autism spectrum. Top OT-recommended categories include: weighted stuffed animals and lap pads, therapy swings and mini trampolines, chew tools and oral sensory toys, fidget toys for self-regulation, sensory bins with varied textures, and light-up or visual sensory toys for children who are visual seekers. The best sensory toy always depends on the individual child's sensory profile — whether they are primarily seeking or avoiding certain types of input.

Question 8

What age can children start using sensory toys?

Accepted Answer

Sensory toys are appropriate from birth — all babies engage in sensory play as a natural part of development. High-contrast visual toys and soft tactile items suit newborns, while proprioceptive toys (tunnels, balance boards) and tactile play (sensory bins, playdough) suit toddlers and preschoolers. For children with identified sensory processing differences, occupational therapists often begin sensory integration activities from 18 months to 2 years. There is no upper age limit — weighted blankets, fidget tools and sensory tools are widely used by teenagers and adults, and are particularly popular in the workplace for adults with ADHD or autism.

Australia's Trusted
Sensory Resource

Why Australian Families Trust One Stop Sensory Shop

Browse by Category

Sensory Toys

Weighted Blankets

Fidget Toys

Sensory Tools

Sensory Play

Sensory Room

Learn & Understand

Free Sensory Checklist for Parents

Shop by Condition

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Australian Families Trust Us

OT-Reviewed Recommendations

Australian Brands First

No Paid Placements

Quarterly Updates

Australia's TrustedSensory Resource