Crafting can be a wonderful way to engage kids with sensory issues during the holidays! In this blog post, we will walk you through how to make an adorable yet simple Sensory-Friendly Valentines Card.
Benefits of Sensory Crafts
Sensory crafts are great for kids of all ages and abilities, but they can yield particularly good results in neurodivergent children, like those on the autism spectrum. Parents of Autistic children know that many of them experience sensory inputs differently than normal children. Typically, sensory sensitivities manifest in one of two forms: “hypersensitivity” which refers to the experience of more heightened and intense sensory inputs, and “hyposensitivity” which refers to the experience of reduced sensory inputs.
Children with hypersensitivity can use crafts to practice sensory tolerance. Crafts offer a safe environment in which to try interacting with new inputs and discover more about their likes and dislikes.
Children with hyposensitivity may love the unique textures, smells, and colors involved in these crafts. Crafts give them a safe environment in which to explore sensory extremes.
Crafts are also a great opportunity for children to practice fine motor skills. Learn how to safely use a variety of tools, including their own hands, wrists, and fingers!
We strongly encourage parents to get involved in these projects with their kids from start to finish. Give your child instructions and help lead them through the different steps of the project. This helps enforce ideas of “first, then” and can help them complete future projects on their own. You can also engage your child in conversation about their crafts: which colors do they like using? Which textures feel best? Where are you going to put this felt ornament? Every moment provides an opportunity for learning and growing together.
What You’ll Need
Let’s walk through how to make an easy Valentines Day card using our hands! The best part about this craft is that its easily customizable, meaning you can make it as simple or as intricate as you would like. The main items you’ll need include:
- Two pieces of construction paper or cardstock, preferably in two different colors
- A Glue Stick
- Scissors
- A pen
Optional items to make your card more decorative:
- stickers
- glitter
- puff balls
- sparkly gel pens
How to Make a Hand Card
Step 1: Fold your Paper
Choose one of your pieces of colored paper to be the base of your card. Then fold the paper so that the two short edges of the paper meet.
Step 2: Trace Hand
Line up your wrist with the edge of the paper and then trace your hand. It’s important to leave a wide base where your hands meet, as this will ensure that the hand shape will open like a card. We recommend angling your hands upwards so that when the card unfolds, it looks like you’re holding something gently.
Step 3: Cut Out Hands
Cut out your hands and unfold them – this is the base of your card~!
Step 4: Create a Heart
With your second paper in a contrasting color, create a heart! Fold your second paper as you did the first, but this time, instead of tracing your hands, trace the outline of one half of a heart. We recommend making it 1-3 inches tall, depending on the size of your hands. When you cut it out and open it, you will now have a small heart for your hands to hold!
Step 5: Write your Message
Now, grab a pen to write your message on your heart! Speak from the heart, or come up with a clever hand related pun! Here are a few suggestions:
- You have my heart in your hands
- Have a Hand-ful of my Love!
- Our love is hand-crafted
Step 5: Glue Heart to Hands
Now, attach your heart to your hands using glue or a glue stick. Voila! You now have a Sensory-Friendly Valentine Card!
Step 6: Decorate your Card (Optional)
If you want, you can make your card extra special using stickers, glitter, markers, sticky gems, and any other craft supplies you might have lying around the house!
About ABA-LLC
ABA-LLC is one of the largest suppliers of Behavior Support in the State of Kentucky. Since 2007, the agency has created innovative strategies to improve the lives of unique individuals. ABA-LLC works with around 190 contractors, each dedicated to building an inclusive culture that celebrates individuals of all abilities. No matter who you are, you can reach your goals at ABA-LLC.
ABA-LLC is set apart from its competitors by its uniquely person-centered approach. The agency strives to provide services from a place of deep love for the population they serve. Their work exemplifies the belief that every individual has a right to live a fulfilling and independent life integrated within their communities. There is no objective to change a person, but rather to give them the tools they need to succeed. B.F. Skinner summarizes this vision in his quote: “I’m not trying to change people. All I want is to change the world in which they live.” Learn more about us at https://aba-llc.com/