• Introduction
  • What is an autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?
  • What are weighted blankets?
• Benefits of weighted blankets for autistic people
  • Improved sleep
  • Reduced anxiety
  • Increased focus and attention
  • Reduced self-stimulatory behavior
• Choosing the right weighted blanket for autistic people
  • Weight of the blanket
  • The fabric of the blanket
• Tips for using a weighted blanket for autistic people
  • Start slowly
  • Adjust the weight as needed
  • Place the blanket correctly
  • Wash the blanket according to the manufacturer’s instructions
• Conclusion

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that can cause various challenges, including sensory sensitivities, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. Weighted blankets are a type of sensory product that has been shown to offer several benefits for autistic people, including:

• Improved sleep: Weighted blankets can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, leading to better sleep quality. A study published in the journal Sleep found that autistic children who used weighted blankets for 12 weeks reported significant improvements in their sleep quality, including reduced nightmares, increased sleep duration, and improved daytime functioning.
• Reduced anxiety: Weighted blankets can provide a calming and grounding effect, which can help to reduce stress. A study published in the journal Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders found that autistic adults who used weighted blankets for 30 minutes daily reported significantly reduced anxiety levels.
• Increased focus and attention: The deep pressure stimulation provided by a weighted blanket can help to improve focus and concentration. A study published in Occupational Therapy in Mental Health found that autistic children who used weighted blankets during school activities showed enhanced focus and attention.
• Reduced self-stimulatory behavior: Weighted blankets can help to minimize self-stimulatory behavior, such as fidgeting and rocking. A study published in Autism found that autistic children who used weighted blankets for 30 minutes per day showed a significant reduction in self-stimulatory behavior.

If you are an autistic person or you know an autistic person who might benefit from a weighted blanket, there are a few things to remember when choosing one. The weight of the blanket should be appropriate for the individual’s size and needs. A good starting point is to choose a blanket that is 10% of the person’s body weight. The blanket should also be made of a soft, breathable, comfortable fabric.

Weighted blankets are not a cure-all for autism, but they can be a helpful tool for managing some of the challenges associated with the condition. If you consider using a weighted blanket, ask your doctor or therapist for their recommendations.

Here are some additional tips for using a weighted blanket for autistic people:

• Start using the blanket for short periods, gradually increasing the time as needed.
• If the blanket is too heavy, it can be uncomfortable or even suffocating. If the blanket is too light, it may not provide enough deep-pressure stimulation.
• The blanket should be placed over the torso and legs, not the head.
• The blanket can be removed or folded back if it becomes too warm.
• The blanket should be washed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Weighted blankets can be a helpful tool for autistic people who experience sensory sensitivities, anxiety, or difficulty sleeping. If you consider using a weighted blanket, ask your doctor or therapist for their recommendations.

It is important to note that these are just general pros and cons, and the experience of using a weighted blanket for autism may vary from person to person. If you are considering using a weighted blanket for your child or loved one, it is important to talk to their doctor or therapist first.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind when considering using a weighted blanket for autism:

• The weight of the blanket should be appropriate for the individual’s size and needs. A good starting point is to choose a blanket that is 10% of the person’s body weight.
• The blanket should be made of a soft, breathable, comfortable fabric.
• The blanket should be placed over the torso and legs, not the head.
• The blanket can be removed or folded back if it becomes too warm.
• The blanket should be washed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Weighted blankets can be a helpful tool for autistic people who experience sensory sensitivities, anxiety, or difficulty sleeping. However, it is important to talk to your doctor or therapist before using a weighted blanket and to start slowly to see how the person reacts.

References

• Barton, M., et al. (2018). The effects of weighted blankets on sleep quality in children with autism spectrum disorder: A randomized controlled trial. Sleep, 41(11), 1869-1878.
• Bogdashina, O. (2018). The Out-of-Sync Child Has Fun: Activities for Sensory Integration and Motor Planning. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
• Karmara, (2020). The Actual Truth About Weighted Blankets for Autism. Karmara.
• National Autism Association. (2021). Weighted Blankets for Autism. National Autism Association.
• Psych Central. (2022). Weighted Blanket and Autism: Benefits, Effects, and Research. Psych Central.

1. Introduction
2. Materials You’ll Need
3. Step-by-Step Guide
   • Step 1: Choose Your Fabric
   • Step 2: Calculate the Weight
   • Step 3: Prepare the Fabric
   • Step 4: Create the Grid
   • Step 5: Add the Weights
   • Step 6: Finish the Blanket
4. Conclusion

Introduction

Weighted blankets have gained popularity recently due to their potential benefits in improving sleep and reducing anxiety. They work by applying gentle, even pressure across your body, mimicking the feeling of being hugged. If you’re interested in experiencing these benefits but are deterred by the high price tag of store-bought options, why not try making your own? This blog post’ll guide you through creating your weighted blanket.

Materials You’ll Need:

1. Two pieces of fabric (size depends on who the blanket is for)
2. Poly pellets or micro glass beads (for the weight)
3. A scale (to measure the weight)
4. Thread (matching the color of your fabric)
5. Sewing machine
6. Measuring tape
7. Scissors
8. Funnel

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Choose Your Fabric

The first step is to choose the fabric for your blanket. You’ll need two pieces of the same size. The size will depend on who the blanket is for. For example, a blanket for a child might be 36″ x 48″, while a blanket for an adult might be 60″ x 80″. Choose a comfortable and durable fabric, such as cotton or flannel.

Step 2: Calculate the Weight

The weight of your blanket will depend on the person who will be using it. A general rule of thumb is to make the blanket about 10% of the person’s body weight. You can use poly pellets or micro glass beads as the weight. These can be purchased online or at a craft store.

Step 3: Prepare the Fabric

Lay out your two pieces of fabric with the right sides together. Sew around the edges, leaving a small gap for turning the fabric right side out. Then, turn the material right side out through the hole.

Step 4: Create the Grid

Next, you’ll create a grid on your fabric. This will form pockets for the weights. The size of the squares in the grid will depend on the size of your blanket, but 4″ x 4″ or 5″ x 5″ courts are common.

Step 5: Add the Weights

Now it’s time to add the weights. Use a funnel to add the poly pellets or micro glass beads to each square in the grid. Be sure to weigh the pellets or beads to know how much you add to each square. Once you’ve added the weights, sew the court’s top closed.

Step 6: Finish the Blanket

Finally, sew the gap in the edge of the blanket closed. And voila! You have your very own DIY weighted blanket.

Conclusion

Making your weighted blanket can be a fun and rewarding project. Not only can you customize it to your liking, but you can also save money compared to buying a pre-made one. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of using something you made yourself. Happy crafting!

For example, when a child with autism syndrome feels overwhelmed or anxious, a weighted blanket can provide a sense of grounding and support. The blanket’s deep pressure can help calm their nervous system and regulate their emotions, making it easier for them to cope with their environment and reduce meltdowns or tantrums.

In addition to their calming effects, weighted blankets can help sleep. Many individuals with autism syndromes have difficulty with sleep, and weighted blankets can provide the pressure and comfort needed to promote a restful night’s sleep. For example, if a child with autism syndrome has trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, a weighted blanket can help them feel more secure and relaxed, making it easier to drift off to sleep. By improving sleep, weighted blankets can also help with overall mood and behavior during the day.

When choosing a weighted blanket for an individual with autism syndrome, it’s important to consider their size, weight, and sensory preferences. The blanket should be large enough to cover the entire body, and the weight should be evenly distributed across the blanket. For example, a child who is 50 pounds may need a weighted blanket that is 5-8 pounds, while an adult who is 150 pounds may need a weighted blanket that is 15-20 pounds. It’s also important to choose a blanket made of soft, breathable materials that are comfortable to touch. For example, a weighted blanket made of plush fleece or cotton may be more comfortable and soothing than synthetic materials.

It’s also important to consult with a healthcare provider or therapist before using a weighted blanket. They can help you determine the appropriate weight and size for the individual and guide how to use the blanket safely and effectively. For example, a therapist may recommend starting with a lighter-weight blanket gradually.

How weighted blankets can provide benefits for individuals with autism syndromes:

• A child with autism syndrome feels overwhelmed by a loud and chaotic environment. Their parents use a weighted blanket to provide a sense of grounding and support, and the deep pressure of the blanket helps to calm their nervous system and regulate their emotions. As a result, the child can cope with the environment and avoid a meltdown or tantrum.
• A teenager with autism syndrome has difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. Their therapist recommends using a weighted blanket to provide the deep pressure and comfort needed to promote a restful night’s sleep. After using the weighted blanket for a few weeks, the teenager’s sleep improves, and they can wake up feeling rested and refreshed.
• An adult with autism syndromes experiences anxiety and panic attacks. Their therapist recommends using a weighted blanket to help calm their nervous system and reduce anxiety. The deep pressure of the blanket provides a sense of safety and security, and the adult can use it to help manage their anxiety symptoms during stress.
• A child with autism syndrome has sensory processing challenges and is sensitive to certain textures and materials. Their parents use a weighted blanket of soft, breathable cotton to provide the deep pressure and comfort needed to regulate their sensory input. The child can use the weighted blanket during activities and transitions, and they find it helpful in managing their sensory needs.

These are just a few examples of how weighted blankets can benefit individuals with autism syndromes. W weighted blankets can help regulate sensory input, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep by providing a sense of deep pressure and comfort. If you are considering a weighted blanket for an individual with autism syndrome, consult a healthcare provider or therapist for guidance on choosing the right blanket and using it safely and effectively.

There are a few potential disadvantages of using weighted blankets for children with autism syndromes. Here are a few possible disadvantages to consider:

• Weighted blankets can be expensive. Weighted blankets are often more costly than regular blankets, and the cost may be a barrier for some families.
• Weighted blankets can be heavy and difficult to move. Depending on the weight of the blanket, it can be difficult for children to move or adjust the blanket on their own. This can be incredibly challenging for younger children or those with limited mobility.
• Weighted blankets may not be suitable for all individuals with autism syndromes. Some individuals may not tolerate the pressure of a weighted blanket or may find it uncomfortable or constricting. In these cases, a weighted blanket may not provide any benefits and may even cause distress or discomfort.
• Weighted blankets should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider or therapist. Weighted blankets are not a cure-all for individuals with autism syndromes and should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Without guidance from a healthcare provider or therapist, it may be difficult to determine the appropriate weight and size of the blanket or to use the blanket safely and effectively.

As a pediatric occupational therapist, I often suggest using weighted blankets for families with children who have sensory processing difficulties. Recently, I worked with a family whose child had trouble calming down and relaxing before bed. After using a weighted blanket, the child became calmer and fell asleep faster, leading to a better night’s sleep. Weighted blankets aren’t just for children though; they can benefit anyone experiencing stress or anxiety. The pressure from the blanket can have a calming effect, almost like a hug. Dream Reality’s weighted blanket is a great all-natural option, made with a soft plush exterior for a cozy feel. It’s hypoallergenic, non-toxic, and BPA-free with balanced weight distribution for even pressure. The double stitching ensures no leakage. Additionally, the blanket comes with an eye mask, earplugs, and a bonus ebook for even better sleep quality. Each purchase supports a mental health charity. Search dream reality weight a blanket on Amazon to learn more and order yours today