Weighted Blanket
Deep Pressure Touch Therapy
What is a Weighted Blanket?
A weighted blanket is simply a blanket with extra weight in it. It provides pressure and sensory input and it can be used as a calming tool or for sleep.
The weight should be evenly distributed, as much as possible, throughout the whole blanket. Rice, beans, and sand are some options to fill weighted blankets.
Why a Weighted Blanket?
How to Use a Weighted Blanket? What Size Weighted Blanket Do You Need?
The weighted blanket should not weigh more than 10% of the child’s body weight. So if your child weighs about 50lbs, you should get a 5lbs blanket.
Your child must also be comfortable with the amount of weight in these blankets. For example, your 50lb child may be able to have a blanket that is 5lbs but may only be able to tolerate the extra pressure with 2.5lbs. Your child must be comfortable and feel safe in order to be regulated.
Weighted blankets can be used at bedtime, during rest times throughout the day, or in times of stress or when in need of regulation.
Your child should never use a weighted blanket before the age of 3 or if they are unable to remove the blanket independently. A child’s head should never be covered by a weighted blanket.
Where Can I buy a Weighted Blanket For My Child?
Many stores carry weighted blankets including Costco, Target, Walmart, and Amazon. Make sure to follow guidelines and get a weighted blanket that is recommended for your child’s needs.