5 Sensory-Friendly Tools That Make Bedtime Easier
For many families, bedtime can feel anything but relaxing—especially for children with sensory sensitivities, autism, ADHD, or anxiety.
Overstimulation from lights, noise, or even textures can make it hard for kids to wind down and get the rest their bodies and brains need.
The good news? With the right tools and routines, bedtime can become a calm and comforting part of the day.
Here are 5 of our most-loved sensory-friendly products that help kids feel safe, soothed, and ready for sleep.
Why it works: Weighted toys provide gentle deep pressure that helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system—promoting relaxation and emotional regulation.
Perfect for: Kids who need a sense of grounding or comfort before sleep
💡 Try placing a weighted plush on your child’s chest or lap during story time or quiet moments before bed.
Why it works: Harsh overhead lighting can keep the brain alert. Swapping to soft, ambient sensory lights helps signal that it's time to unwind.
Perfect for: Setting a calm nighttime environment without overwhelming visual input
💡 Choose lights with soft colour shifts or dimmable settings to reduce stimulation.
Why it works: Compression clothing gives consistent pressure, similar to a firm hug, which can help calm the body and ease restlessness.
Perfect for: Kids who toss, turn, or struggle to stay in bed
💡 Use compression under regular sleepwear or as part of a calming wind-down routine.
Why it works: A quiet tactile tool like a Picky Pad gives the brain something soothing to focus on—helping ease anxious or repetitive behaviours.
Perfect for: Kids who chew, pick, or fidget as a form of self-regulation
💡 Let your child wind down with a calming fidget for 10 minutes before bed instead of screen time.
Why it works: Oral sensory input is incredibly grounding. Chewing can reduce tension, especially for kids who grind their teeth or chew on clothing.
Perfect for: Kids with oral sensory needs or bedtime anxiety
💡 Chew tools made from food-grade silicone are safe, reusable, and easy to clean.
💡 Final Tip: Create a Calm, Predictable Routine
Tools work best when paired with consistency. Try building a sensory-friendly bedtime routine like:
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Dim the lights
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Use a weighted toy or compression wrap
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Play soft music or white noise
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Offer a chew or calming fidget
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Keep language and transitions gentle
🛒 Ready to Try a Better Bedtime?
Explore all our sensory bedtime tools at My Sensory Space.
Every product is expert-curated, NDIS-friendly, and loved by Aussie families just like yours.
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