how to make weighted lap friend | how to make weighted lap blanket | weighted lap blanket | weighted blanket | sensory input | sensory | adhd | add | sensory processing disorderWeighted products are perfect for children with autism who have sensory issues and benefit from sensory input. A weighted lap animal or bag can have a calming effect, reduce anxiety, and they can even improve a child‘s focus. Focus is probably the biggest hurdle we face in our homeschool because of Grasshopper’s ADHD. We’ve experienced success in improving sensory processing with various weighted techniques with an occupational therapist. It’s been a process of trial and error, but it’s been a game changer to learn that weighted lap bags provide sensory input that Grasshopper benefits from.

We recently ordered a weighted blanket for kids to help him calm down to fall asleep, but I also wanted something tactile that could sit on his lap during school. Especially during reading and spelling class when his dyslexia means he needs to focus more. So I pulled together some resources from around the house and made one myself!

How to Make Your Own Weighted Lap Friend

First you’ll need to round up some supplies. I used a small pillow animal but you could use any type of stuffed animal. I recommend poly pellets for the weights – as they’re specifically made for weighted lap pads and lap bags). Finally, you’ll need a zip lock bag, duct tape, seam ripper, needle and thread.

how to make weighted lap friend | how to make weighted lap blanket | weighted lap blanket | weighted blanket | sensory input | sensory | adhd | add | sensory processing disorder

The first step is to put the desired amount of weight into a zip lock bag. You should check with an occupational therapist or doctor before using weighted products on your children. A general rule of thumb though, is to use enough weight to equal 10% of their body weight to achieve the desired soothing effect. After putting your weights into a ziplock bag, place the bag over the stuffed animal. Fold the bag over to the appropriate size, remove all the air, and duct tape the bag to the appropriate size. If you’re using an animal that sits up, you may need to tape the bag into more of a ball shape.

how to make weighted lap friend | how to make weighted lap blanket | weighted lap blanket | weighted blanket | sensory input | sensory | adhd | add | sensory processing disorder

 

how to make weighted lap friend | how to make weighted lap blanket | weighted lap blanket | weighted blanket | sensory input | sensory | adhd | add | sensory processing disorder

Next, it’s time to perform surgery on the stuffed toy. Use your seam ripper to rip out a seam on one side of the toy. Then start pulling out some stuffing. You probably won’t need to remove all of it just just take out about half to start with.

how to make weighted lap friend | how to make weighted lap blanket | weighted lap blanket | weighted blanket | sensory input | sensory | adhd | add | sensory processing disorder

Next, it’s time to insert the weights! Slide your zip lock bag of weights into the opening. After the weights are inside the toy, you may be able to put some of the stuffing back into the toy. Add back as much stuffing as desired, then push the stuffing and weights around until you have then distributed proportionately throughout the toy.

how to make weighted lap friend | how to make weighted lap blanket | weighted lap blanket | weighted blanket | sensory input | sensory | adhd | add | sensory processing disorder

Finally, it’s time to get out your needle and thread to sew the toy back up! This project went rather quickly, I finished in probably about 10 minutes.
 

how to make weighted lap friend | how to make weighted lap blanket | weighted lap blanket | weighted blanket | sensory input | sensory | adhd | add | sensory processing disorder

Of course, if you’re not the do it yourself type, you can always order a weighted pet like this teddy bear, dog, or turtle.
 
Have fun creating your furry friends, and I hope you’ll find similar success with a new lap buddy for your child. Sensory overload is a difficult problem to address, and finding the right sensory toys that help with anxiety can really feel like a break through. I’ve heard many stories of the benefits of a lap buddy for autistic children and those with ADHD, and I imagine they’re a smart bet to try for many of our extraordinary children that fidget or struggle with processing disorder.
 
Check the tag & materials of your soft stuffed buddy, but these modifications don’t prevent it from being washable. So you children can hug these super soft & cuddly lap animals, and you can rest easy knowing it can provide the needed therapy and be revived with a quick run through the wash when needed!