When creating a supportive environment for a neurodivergent child, we often focus on structured moments. Targeted routines—like a 30-minute focus block paired with a dynamic sensory seat—are incredible anchors for learning. But what happens when the timer rings? A child's sensory needs don't simply clock out; they require continuous, thoughtful support.
To bridge this gap, we turn to Lindsey Biel, M.A., OTR/L, a nationally recognized occupational therapist and member of the Ted Kangaroo Advisory Council. Lindsey emphasizes that true regulation goes far beyond a strict daily schedule. Here is her expert framework for designing a home or classroom that works with your child’s nervous system, all day long.
From "Sensory Diet" to Lifestyle
"The old-school sensory diet was an organized schedule of prescribed therapeutic activities, quite like meals. But we now know that sensory needs are present 24/7, and they can change from hour to hour. We need a vast collection of 'sensory smart' strategies. Rather than just a sensory diet, we need a sensory-rich lifestyle."
— Lindsey Biel
Setting up an environment that proactively supports a child wherever they are is key to preventing meltdowns and promoting self-regulation. Below are three foundational strategies for creating a sensory-smart ecosystem.
1. Sensory-friendly lighting
Avoid fluorescents and so-called daylight LED bulbs. Install dimmer switches. Opt for warm LEDs, halogen bulbs, or a smart bulb you can control with a smartphone, including dimming.
2. Meet movement needs
All people benefit from movement to feel and function at their best. Kids move to learn so it's important to create opportunities for active movement throughout the day.
At school, whole-class movement activities can reset the classroom. If needed, kids can sit on a wiggle cushion or use a standing desk. Opportunities to jump, bounce, run, swing, climb stairs, dance, push, pull and so on empower kids to reset brains and bodies so they are ready to attend, learn, and thrive.
3. Regroup in a calm, quiet space
When life gets too much, all of us need a break. Kids have fewer coping skills than adults, so this is be especially important for them.
Provide a noise reduced, softly light space with cozy furniture like bean bag chairs and the Ted Kangaroo soft squeeze seat, and favored activities such as looking at picture books, reading, coloring, or using hand fidget tools can help kids reorganize their nervous systems.
Lindsey Biel, M.A., OTR/L
Ted Kangaroo Advisory Council
Lindsey Biel is an occupational therapist with a private practice in New York City specializing in sensory processing differences and autism. She is the co-author of the bestselling book Raising a Sensory Smart Child (foreword by Temple Grandin)—now in its 34th printing and translated into eight languages—and author of Sensory Processing Challenges: Effective Clinical Work with Kids and Teens.
Her expertise has been featured in The New York Times, Autism Advocate, and ADDitude. She has conducted trainings for thousands of professionals worldwide, with speaking highlights including the Yale Child Study Center, NPR, and the Guggenheim Museum.
