Comforting Contentment – A Reflex Level Activity

Time

4 3 2 1 Late Stage

Benefits

What you need

A wheat bag (can be in the form of a soft toy e.g. dog, sheep)
A microwave to heat up the wheat bag

Intro

Doesn’t everyone love a comforting hug! Touching/stroking/holding a warmed wheat bag can be a very comforting activity and can help someone respond to a single sensory experience without feeling overstimulated.

Top tip

In hot weather the wheat bag can also be used as above but in order to have a cooling effect on the person rather than a warming effect.

Written by Sophie Jopling and Sarah Mousley from Kent Occupational Therapy

The Activity

Before the activity make sure that the environment is quiet and uninterrupted.
Before the activity heat the wheat bag up for the required amount of time in the microwave.
Use the person’s name to introduce the activity.
Draw the person’s attention to the wheat bag and say ‘touch’ or ‘hold’ or ‘stroke’
Gently stroke the person’s hand with the wheat bag, or place it so that the person can take time to hold/cuddle it.
Ask the person if they like the feel of it. Say ‘doesn’t it feel lovely and warm.’
If the wheat bag is in the form of a soft toy, ask if they like it.