This activity has been revised and was originally created by Kathy Heydt and Monica Allon and published in the Perkins Activity and Resource Guide (1st edition, 1992). The second edition is available for purchase.
Providing vestibular stimulation will help the student improve balance, spatial awareness and the ability to catch oneself when off balance. This simple activity will meet those objectives. Lessons include Orientation and Mobility.
Materials
None
Procedure
- The student must understand the concept of “yes” or “no,” and shake his head “no” or nod his head “yes” appropriately to answer.
- The student is sitting comfortably on the floor or in a chair.
- Ask silly questions that require a “yes” or “no” answer: Is it snowing in the classroom? Do you like ice cream for breakfast?
- Encourage the student to answer using exaggerated head movements.
- Let the student be in control of how much head shaking or nodding he can tolerate.
- If the student does not understand the “yes” or “no,” activities can be adapted to include simply shaking his head.
- Have a rocking chair in the home or classroom for use during leisure time.
- Encourage the use of swings, slides or other playground equipment.
Hints: Watch for any adverse responses, such as avoidance, grimaces, withdrawal or verbal outbursts. Stop the activity if any of these reactions occur. Reintroduce the activity slowly with the student in control. Let him be the guide for how much vestibular stimulation he can tolerate.
