Sensory Brush – Therapy Brush for Tactile Input

Why It Works

• Deep-pressure brushing gives strong, predictable input across a large area of skin, which some children find very settling.
• It does not suit every child, and the research is mixed, which is why it belongs in a plan set up by a therapist rather than being bought and improvised.

How to use

• Firm strokes on the arms, back and legs. Never light, and never the face, chest or stomach.
• If a therapist has given you a schedule, follow the timings exactly. The schedule is part of how it works.

OT Tip

• Ask your therapist to show you once and to watch you do it. The most common mistake is brushing too lightly, which wakes a child up rather than settling them — and families then conclude, wrongly, that this kind of input does not suit their child.

1 × sensory brush

• Occupational therapists
• Families following a plan set up by a therapist
• Touch input under professional guidance

⚠ Therapy brush.

• Brushing should be taught and supervised by a qualified occupational therapist. Used incorrectly it can distress a child rather than settle them.
• Never brush the face, chest or stomach.
• Firm, even pressure only. Never light or tickling strokes.
• Stop immediately if the child shows distress.
• One brush per child. Do not share between children.
• Wash regularly and replace it when the bristles soften.
• Not suitable for children under 3.