Navigating the world as a neurodivergent individual can be a unique and sometimes challenging experience. Understanding and addressing sensory needs is a crucial aspect of supporting neurodiversity, but it's important to do so in a way that respects individuality and fosters a sense of empowerment. In this blog post, we'll explore the concepts of sensory schedules and a sensory lifestyle, and why the latter is a more flexible and empowering approach to meeting the sensory needs of neurodivergent individuals. 

Sensory Schedules: A Prescriptive Approach 

A sensory schedule, in simple terms, consists of specifically tailored activities designed to target different sensory systems. The ultimate goal is to provide sensory input that supports regulation and optimal arousal. These activities can be implemented at various times throughout the day, either as a preventative measure or in response to sensory challenges. These schedules or timetables are often referred to as "sensory diets" however this is an incorrect use of a term originally coined by Wilbarger & Wilbarger. So whether you've heard the term Sensory Schedule or Sensory Timetable or if this sounds more like a Sensory Diet you have been given, what we are talking about today is when a client is given a fixed agenda of "sensory activities" that they must follow. Often these activities are implemented by an adult, and sometimes they are imposed on the child and/or "done to" the child.
As you can imagine, there are some inherent challenges with the sensory schedule approach. 

One of the main issues with sensory schedules is their prescriptive nature. They often come across as a list of tasks that children are told to do before specific events, like dinner or school. When these activities are imposed by adults, children may perceive them as punitive, leading to resistance and disengagement. Additionally, sticking to a rigid sensory schedule can be challenging for families, as life is never static. Materials may not always be available, timetables change, and unexpected events can disrupt the routine. 

The Sensory Lifestyle Approach

Enter the concept of a sensory lifestyle—a flexible and empowering approach to meeting sensory needs. Instead of prescribing specific activities at set times, a sensory lifestyle encourages families to recognize and address all the factors that impact a person’s sensory experience throughout the day. 

With a sensory lifestyle, families gain a better understanding of their sensory needs. Armed with this knowledge, they can create opportunities for the child to naturally meet those needs within their daily life. This might involve play, activities the family is already engaged in, or other daily routines. The beauty of a sensory lifestyle is that it empowers individuals and their loved ones to decode everyday situations and adjust them for success. 

Empowerment and Flexibility 

The key distinction between a sensory schedule and a sensory lifestyle is empowerment. A sensory lifestyle empowers an individual to build their life around their needs, rather than the other way around. It recognizes that every individual is unique and that sensory needs can evolve and change over time. 

By embracing a sensory lifestyle, individuals are encouraged to get their needs met naturally through play, exploration, and the activities they naturally enjoy. This not only makes meeting sensory needs more enjoyable but also fosters a sense of independence and self-regulation. 

Reflection

In the world of neurodiversity, understanding and addressing sensory needs is vital. While sensory diets can be helpful in some situations, they often come across as prescriptive and rigid. On the other hand, a sensory lifestyle empowers families to create a supportive environment that recognizes and embraces the uniqueness of each individual. 

So, let's celebrate neurodiversity by shifting our perspective from rigid sensory schedules to flexible and empowering sensory lifestyles. By doing so, we can help every person thrive, meeting their sensory needs naturally, and ultimately building a world that celebrates the diversity of the human experience.