Swings, bouncers, rockers, and trampolines benefit your child’s vestibular system, a set of neural pathways in your inner ear responsible for spatial orientation and balance. Supporting the vestibular system is particularly beneficial for children with disabilities who often have sensory processing difficulties. A child may feel sensory overload when the vestibular system isn’t operating correctly. Vestibular stimulation involves any movement that engages the inner ear and brain. Swinging and bouncing activities do just that! Regular use of swings, bouncers, or trampolines can reduce anxiety, calm sensory overload, and promote focus, making these activities both fun and therapeutic. For more great gift ideas, don’t miss our other Rare Parenting Shopping Lists!
Swings
Giant Saucer Swing
We love this indoor/outdoor Giant Saucer Swing because of its size. It’s great for older kids or for siblings to join in on the fun together. With a weight limit of 700 pounds, this is an ideal swing for mom and dad to swing with their child, too!
Full Support Swing
If you’re looking for support, the Skillbuilders swing offers a 5-point harness and pommel, and comes in a variety of sizes. This is a great swing to add to your at-home swing set. The child size comes in small, medium or large, and there’s also larger teen and adult versions!
Egg Swing
The Swurfer Coconut Toddler Swing is a parent favorite because its egg design allows the child to be a seated bit more comfortably. It can also be leaned back for kids who are less comfortable when upright. The 3-point harness is made and positioned well. Though it is recommended for kids ages 6m-36m, it can hold older, smaller children, too.
Netted Tree Swing
To complement its egg swing, Swurfer created their own netted Tree Swing. This is great for kids who don’t need a harness, but want a comfortable, body-hugging swing.
Sensory Swing
Sensory swings are all the rage and seem to be popping up in homes across America. Kids love to feel cuddled inside them, and the tight, wrapped-up feeling adds sensory input. We like the WILDKEN Sensory Swing — the brand got its start in rock climbing and continues to be a specialist in safe climbing gear.
Jumpers, Rockers and Bouncers
Doorway Jumper
We love this Graco Doorway Jumper for kids working to build their torso and practice weight-bearing. And, for kids needing extra support within the jumper, the KidCo insert shown next works perfectly!
Padded Swing and Jumper Insert
The KidCo swing insert is a must-have for kids needing more support while they swing, bounce and jump! It fits nicely in the Graco doorway jumper mentioned, and in swings at the local playground – though for smaller kids, bucket swings can still be challenging.
Rocker
This is a popular rocker for bigger kids who love to keep themselves moving! While it does include a waist belt, this rocker is not recommended for children who need sitting support. Kids can place their feet on the bar to push themselves into rocking! This chair is also super easy to set up.
Giant Inflatable Rocker
Another option for calming down the vestibular system is a giant inflatable rocker! This model from Hearthsong can be used indoors or outdoors and is great for multiple children.
Dome Rocking Bouncer
Also from Hearthsong is this 8-Foot Inflatable Dome Rocking Bouncer. Kids and their friends can hop on to have a great time socializing, expending energy, and calming their sensory systems!
URBNFit Yoga Ball
Yoga balls are a tried-and-true purchase for parents of small children who need vestibular stimulation. Parents can hold their child in their arms while softly bouncing on the ball to help regulate crying, for example. Ensure to purchase the largest option for added safety. It is also a common tool for occupational therapists working with children of any age, in which case the size purchased should correspond to the child’s size. For example, a 4-year-old might be best suited for a 22″ ball. This URBNFit Yoga Ball is sturdy, made well, and will last a lifetime.
Netted Trampolines
Safe Trampoline
This 6ft CalmMax trampoline is not only enclosed for safety, but it also comes with a swing! The swing can be removed, leaving behind a bar for children to hang from. This makes a great gift for children with sensory needs, with added safety.
Spring Free Trampoline
We love this Springfree trampoline because it is just that – spring-free! The edges of this trampoline don’t have the coils you see in typical trampolines, making it immediately safer for large and small children who may bounce to the edges!
Don’t miss our Ultimate Gift Guide for Kids with Needs, and for more great gift ideas, check out our other Rare Parenting Shopping Lists!
