Project SOOTHe
What is Project SOOTHe?
For children who have experienced trauma, it can be difficult to feel safe and securely attached in a new home, no matter how loving or supportive that home is. But there’s hope for them and for you as a caregiver.
One of the best ways to support the children in your life is to understand and meet their sensory processing needs. That's where Project SOOTHe (Sensory Opportunities Offering Therapeutic Help) comes in.
Thank you again so much for your time and advice! We have begun to change our language from tantrums to meltdowns... Ryan had difficulty the other night accepting that he couldn't ride his sister's scooter. When he had his meltdown, we offered slime, the blanket while he sat in dad's lap, juice and a pickle popsicle. We didn't talk about what was going on, we just went straight into soothe mode. We couldn't have done it without you. We know there is a lot of work ahead, but you have helped us make some good steps, and get us motivated. Thanks so much!
- Brandi, foster mother
What is Sensory Processing?
Sensory processing is the way our nervous system receives sensory messages and information, and turns them into responses. For example, when we walk into a loud room or brush up against another person, our brain takes cues from those interactions and tells our bodies how to respond.
What is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)?
SPD is a neurological disorder in which sensory signals aren’t organized into appropriate responses. Children with SPD perceive and/or respond to sensory information differently than other people and this disorganization interrupts their daily routines.
Oftentimes, these children are labeled “troublemakers” because their sensory processing needs aren’t understood, and therefore, aren’t met. The good news is that meeting their unique needs can make all the difference!
5% of kids deal with SPD, but an estimated 80% of kids with traumatic backgrounds experience challenges with SPD.
How SOOTHe Can Help
Through Project SOOTHe, we provide opportunities for caregivers to learn more about all things sensory processing: education, activities, tools, and connections.
We provide help with understanding a particular child and his or her sensory needs. Our trained staff can ask questions to help zero in on sensory experiences that your child might crave or avoid.
Knowing your child better can help you parent them differently. SOOTHe staff has a wealth of sensory-rich activity ideas, and can help you design experiences particular to the needs of your child. And you can request sensory tools or toys that might help your child better regulate their emotions.
Project SOOTHe can connect you with other caregivers who may have similar experiences, and can help you know what professionals you might refer to for further support.
Request Tools or Toys
Through Project SOOTHe, we provide sensory objects such as weighted blankets, swings, sensory toys, and white noise machines that can help ease anxiety for children.
These objects calm the central nervous system, help little (and big) bodies process stress, and increase the release of serotonin, a hormone that stabilizes things like mood and sleep.
If you're a foster parent, case worker, or therapist interested in applying for any of the following items for a specific child in the Northeast Kansas foster care system, please submit the request form below and we’ll connect with you.
- Sound and/or light machines
- Weighted Items (blankets, lap pads, stuffed animals)
- Therapeutic Swing
- Wobble cushion or board
- Fidget Tools
- Sensory-Specific Toys
Contact Our Team
Complete the Project SOOTHe Request Form and we'll connect with you soon.
Project SOOTHe Request Form
Have questions? Reach out to our Caregiver Support Coordinator at kristen@fostervillagenortheastks.org.
Helpful Resources
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SENSORY PROCESSING |
BLOGS
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