Featured image: Isobel Bates
World Autism Acceptance Week takes place Monday 27 March to Sunday 2 April. To celebrate, Isabel Bates rounds up a series of sensory tools which could help with concentration.
Having been diagnosed with Autism at an early age, it has become part of my identity. However, I am not defined by my autism. The early intervention I received means I know what to do if I am feeling burnt out or fidgety.
Following ADHD/Autism influencers such as Ellie Middleton has also helped me discover new phrases such as ‘dopamine dressing‘ and ‘the Autism paradox‘, which has enabled me to further understand my behaviours.
So, what is Autism? Autism is a developmental disability which causes differences in the brain. While there are certain autism characteristics such as social communication and repetitive behaviours recognised within the disability, everyone’s autism is unique to them. Some people have sensory issues and others can experience lapses in concentration.
I have found my own strategies to help me through my student life and I’m sharing a short list of sensory tools which could help you too with concentration.
Tangle Creations
Suitable for any sensory needs, Tangle Creations are great for fidgeting and reducing anxiety. I use mine during presentations or lectures to help me focus my mind on what I want to discuss. They come in a range of different colours so there’s plenty of choice for everyone.
Spinner Rings
This latest sensory tool has become a growing trend on TikTok and come in a large choice of patterns and designs. Spinner Rings can help you redirect and focus your mind when your thoughts are racing. They typically feature a band in the middle which can be pushed around allowing it to spin around your finger and they are small and discreet, which is perfect for those who might not be as open as me about their autism identity.
Button Fidget Cubes
Fidget cubes can offer different types of sensory components such as a joystick, push buttons and multiple gears. They are great for people who experience lapses in concentration as the different components adds a variety of textures to fidget with.
Sensory Rings
Rubber spiked rings are perfect for keeping your hands busy and can help reduce anxiety and stress. While similar to Tangle Creations, these offer more texture as they have a rubber feel to them and feature small spikes.
These are just some of the available sensory tool for adults on the spectrum so I’d recommend having a look around and seeing what’s right for you and your individual needs.
Feature Image: Press “It’s important to find your people. Don’t feel like you have to find this incredible producer or person who’s going to give you loads of money and change your life” says Lauerence Tratalos, one-half of the Northern duo responsible for Misper; a feature debut for director Harry Sheriff and script writer Tratalos….
Featured image and gallery: Lucy Elson-Whittaker Fuel Café Bar in Withington hosts the fifth stop of six-piece band Ignoring Izzy’s ‘Motorway Musk’ tour, following the release of their debut single. The room buzzes with the promise of chaos, and possibly a few flying vegetables. Opening the night is Manchester-based Leucotome, a witch-folk trio blending soft,…
Featured image and gallery: Sub Khan Opening the night, Gabrielle eases the Co-op Live crowd into the spectacular night ahead. There’s no need for spectacle, her presence alone is enough with her deep vocals echoing around the arena. A performance rooted in control and feeling, each song reveals a different shade of her understated command. Operating…
Featured image and gallery: Sam Holmes Formed in Belfast in 2019, Chalk have already made a name for themselves. From support slots for Fontaines D.C., IDLES and Sprints, to taking to the stage at SXSW earlier this year, the band’s growth has been rapid and shows no signs of stopping. Touring their debut album Crystalpunk,…
Leave a reply