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Q. .How much weight do you use with a weighted vest? A. To date no studies show how much weight is therapeutic, however, anectodal evidence suggests that between 5%-10% of a child's body weight is beneficial. If the weights are on the shoulder, 5% is good, and if the weights are in pockets in the front and back on the torso, 7%-10% is good.
Q. What is the wearing schedule of a weighted vest? A.Studies indicate that wearing the vest for up to 2 hours on is beneficial as it helps increase on-task behavior. (American Journal of Occupational Therapy 2001 55, 621-628 and 55, 629-640). Many therapists over the years have had the child wear the vest for approximately 20 minutes on and this has been helpful. So between 20 minutes to 2 hours on and then 1 1/2 - 2 hours off.
Q. Is there a wearing schedule for a weighted lapbag? No, because the child has control and takes it off/ puts it on intermittently throughout the day, allowing the nervous system to get the input it needs without accomodating.
Q. Is there a wearing schedule for neoprene pressure vests? A. No. The child can leave this on all day because the pressure is dynamic and it moves with the child, therefore providing the change of sensory input needed to help the nervous system maintain a "just right" alertness.
Q. Do ball chairs help students stay focused on their schoolwork? A. Yes, a study published by AJOT (American Journal of Occupational Therapy 2003 57, 534-541) entitled "Classroom Seating for Children With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Therapy Balls Versus Chairs" results indicated that the children increased in-seat behavior and legible word productivity.
Q..What other options are there besides a ball chair? A. You could also use a 'move-n-sit' or 'disc-o-sit' cushion which can be purchased through several therapy catalogs. See my links page.
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